Last updated on February 19, 2025
Carnival Cruise Line’s onboard casinos have recently faced criticism from passengers regarding various gaming practices and policies. While the allure of gambling at sea remains strong, numerous guests have reported issues that potential patrons should be aware of.
Unfavorable Blackjack Rules Raise Eyebrows
A significant concern among players centers on the blackjack tables aboard Carnival ships. Many patrons have noted that the rules heavily favor the house, leading to a less enjoyable experience. One Cruise Critic member highlighted:
“Just speaking of Blackjack – it’s all continuous shuffle, pays 6:5 and the dealer hits on soft 17.”
These modifications deviate from traditional blackjack rules, potentially increasing the house edge and diminishing player returns.
Slot Machine Payouts Under Scrutiny
Slot enthusiasts have also voiced concerns about the payout percentages on Carnival’s machines. Comparisons to land-based casinos suggest that onboard slots may offer lower returns. A Cruise Critic user observed:
“If you go by the video poker payouts, the average RTP is probably 85% compared to a 92-93% on land.”
This discrepancy has led some passengers to question the fairness and appeal of the casino’s slot offerings.
Opaque Casino Reward Programs Leave Players Guessing
Carnival’s casino reward system, known as the Carnival Players Club, has been criticized for its lack of transparency. Unlike other cruise lines with clear tier-based programs, Carnival’s system leaves players uncertain about their status and potential benefits. A Cruise Critic member explained:
“Unlike most other cruise lines and land-based casinos, Carnival does not have a published schedule of comps.”
This ambiguity can lead to confusion and frustration among guests attempting to gauge their rewards and incentives.
Customer Service Challenges
Some passengers have reported difficulties in resolving casino-related issues, citing unresponsive or unhelpful customer service. One Reddit user recounted an experience where their casino account was locked without clear explanation, leading to a negative interaction with management. The user shared:
“I was deeply offended by the manager’s baseless accusation… He turned a win into an unpleasant experience.”
Such encounters can detract from the overall enjoyment of the cruise and leave lasting negative impressions.
Key Concerns Highlighted by Passengers
- Unfavorable blackjack rules, including continuous shuffling and 6:5 payouts.
- Lower slot machine payout percentages compared to land-based casinos.
- Lack of transparency in the casino rewards program, leading to confusion among players.
- Customer service challenges, with reports of unresponsive or unhelpful interactions.
Final Verdict: Proceed with Caution
While Carnival’s onboard casinos offer the excitement of gambling at sea, potential patrons should be aware of the reported issues. The combination of house-favoring game rules, potentially lower payouts, opaque reward systems, and customer service challenges suggests that guests approach with caution and manage expectations accordingly.