Casinos on Alaska Cruises??

[AJs Grandpa]

I love cruising but always considered "cruise" as coming from an ancient language meaning "warm weather in the day" and "casino at night." Consequently, I've resisted any suggestions to cruise Alaska. Time, "outside pressure" and this board are causing me to reconsider. But there is only so much compromise in my blood. I can give up the warm weather, but I can't give up the casino as well.

 

I assume casinos are open between the left coast port and Alaskan waters, but what happens when the ship gets to Alaskan waters? Any difference between inland passage and other routes? Do ships get into international waters at night so casinos can open? Will I have to go "cold" turkey (more ways than one,) or will I have the opportunity to make nightly donations to the cruise industry?

[Len3]

I just returned from the Sun Princess Inside Passage Cruise/Tour - which I just loved. The casino opened about 30 minutes after leaving each port and stayed open until the wee hours. No casino gambling is allowed in Glacier Bay. I found that the slots were extremely tight - no regulations as in Vegas, etc. and after a few nights people lost interest (and money) - payoffs were poor at best. As for the table games, a few had some action going, but that's about it. I'm a real slot machine fan, but not on a cruise ship.

[wolfie11]

All the cruise ships have casinos and they are open from morning until the wee hours except in ports and Glacier Bay. Technically, there is no gambling in Alaska state waters, but I think that is pretty well ignored.

[Love Cruis'n]

Craps tables were $5 stakes, with double odds. DW reports that slots were very tight, and video poker was "terrible." Although, the craps tournament was a lot of fun. (Made the finals and got a free tee shirt)

I appreciate your desire for warmth on a cruise, but Alaska is sooo beautiful, just keep an open mind, bundle up, and enjoy the sights. :)

[AJs Grandpa]

Thanks everyone. I guess I'll have to add sweaters to my cruise wardrobe and start planning on heading north in '07. Fortunately we have two "normal" cruises in the interim.:)

[never2late]

Hey, I won $200 on a Wheel of Fortune Machine . . .and most importantly I took it home with me. I will say you didn't hear much yelling or screaming from people winning in the casino, but if I can play for awhile and break even, then I'm happy. :D

[Len3]

I've learned my lesson the hard way - may as well just through the money over the rail. From now on, I'll take my gaming to Vegas where it belongs!!!

[JimF]

She won $175 at Bingo, then went into casino and won $100 at 25 cent slots