silversea cruise casino

Cruise ship casinos: Everything you need to know about gambling at sea

Cruise ship casino gambling is a big deal to some cruisers. You know how you often hear people on a cruise ship planning their day around the entertainment, tours and mealtimes? Last night, I eavesdropped on a conversation where a group of six people was planning their entire next day around time in the ship's casino.

For other cruisers, the casino is more of an onboard curiosity than anything else. What are all those table games? Do people actually win money — or free cruises — playing in cruise ship casinos?

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If you're curious, I've compiled answers to the most common questions people ask about cruise ship casinos. Some of the answers may surprise you.

Do all cruise ships have casinos?

Most large, mainstream cruise ships have casinos, including the ships of Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, Holland America, Norwegian Cruise Line (other than Pride of America), Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises and Virgin Voyages.

Specialty cruise lines like Disney Cruise Line, Paul Gauguin and most expedition cruise ships do not have casinos. Premium cruise lines Oceania Cruises and Cunard have casinos, while Viking, Azamara and Windstar Cruises do not. (Windstar and Azamara actually removed casinos from their ships and repurposed the space.)

Among the luxury cruise lines, Silversea and Seabourn have casinos on their non-expedition ships; Regent Seven Seas has casinos on all its ships. Smaller luxury ships like those belonging to Ponant, Ritz-Carlton, Scenic and Emerald do not have casinos. River cruise lines do not have casinos on board, even on U.S. rivers where "riverboat" gambling is reserved for casino boats, not river cruise ships.

Related: A beginners guide to picking a cruise line

Are cruise casinos open in port?

With a few exceptions, cruise casinos are not open while ships are in port. They are generally limited to operating while the ship is in international waters. This is why Norwegian's Pride of America doesn't have a casino. Since the ship cruises exclusively in Hawaii, it never leaves U.S. waters.

Cruisers are also often surprised to learn that the casino is closed on some nights during Alaska cruises . Cruises that sail from Victoria, British Columbia, to Seattle on the final night are a good example. The ship goes straight from Canadian waters to U.S. waters without ever reaching international open waters, so the casino closes the night before arrival in Victoria and does not reopen during the cruise.

Ports that currently allow the cruise lines to operate their casinos while the ship is in port include Bermuda and Malta, which require cruise lines to apply for a gaming license. Bermuda has allowed casino operations for licensed ships between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m. since 2013. It's an ideal situation as Bermuda has no land-based casinos, and many cruise ships overnight in port on Bermuda cruises. Malta, which does have land-based casinos, allows ships that have been approved for licenses to open their casinos between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Which casino games are on cruise ships?

Gaming in cruise ship casinos usually includes a mix of slot machines and table games, such as three-card poker, Caribbean stud poker, craps, blackjack and roulette. Regionally popular table games like Texas Hold 'em and pai gow may also be available on some sailings.

Can you win money in a cruise ship casino?

Most cruise ship casino games operate under the same rules and payout percentages you would find in a land-based casino; therefore, the answer is yes, you can win money in a cruise ship casino.

Social media posts and casino announcements would indicate that at least a small handful of people win four- and even occasionally five-figure slot machine payouts on a regular basis. But just as in a land-based casino, it's far easier to lose your stake than it is to win that kind of money.

How many casino points do you need to get a free cruise?

As at land-based casinos, each cruise line offering gambling on board sets its own criteria for earning perks through the line's casino loyalty program or players club. Points are generally tied to the time played and the amount of money you gamble, including the money you win and recirculate.

Much like an airline loyalty program, casino points usually accumulate over a year, earning you better perks as you work toward increasingly higher status levels. Annual free or discounted cruises are one of those perks, often beginning with complimentary (aka comped) inside cabins at relatively low status levels.

Many casinos also let you match casino status from land-based casinos (or even other cruise lines), giving you a leg up. For example, I haven't cruised with Carnival in a while, and I've never played in the line's onboard casinos, but I signed up for the Carnival players club via its Fun Match program. When I registered, I uploaded an offer from a competing cruise line and a players club card from MGM. Now when I log in to Carnival's website, I am shown casino offers that include free and discounted cruises.

Related: How to earn free cruises and perks with casino loyalty programs on land and at sea

Some cruise lines also issue instant awards for the number of points earned (i.e., money spent) on an individual cruise, regardless of status. That would be like an airline awarding free future flights to passengers who spent the most money on their flights, no matter their loyalty status.

Most mainstream cruise lines use comped cruises to fill cabins on dates they anticipate having a surplus of vacancies. These extra offers often appear random, but are generally targeted for marketing purposes rather than as rewards for high amounts of play. New players may receive these comps after low levels of play because cruise lines are always interested in attracting new casino players.

All of that adds up to the possibility of receiving a free cruise for a small number of points earned for cruising, as well as guaranteed free cruises as your points rise to the levels of play set out in the cruise lines' casino loyalty programs.

What is the best casino game to play on a cruise ship?

The best casino game to play on a cruise ship is the one that is most entertaining for you. Ultimately, you play to have fun, right?

The games that require a combination of skill and luck are the ones where the odds of winning are in your favor. For example, the overall odds on blackjack favor the casino by only 1%, while the casino has a 25% edge overall when it comes to slot machines.

Those odds mean the cruise lines operating casinos will favor slot machine players over card players, both in terms of the number of games provided and the loyalty perks awarded.

In summary, for winning money, the best games are skill games. For earning loyalty perks like free cruises, slot machines are the best choice.

Are drinks free in the casino on cruise ships?

Historically, drinks have not been free to cruise ship casino gamblers the way they usually are in land-based casinos. There are exceptions, however.

Free drinks in the casino are a perk of casino loyalty on Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess, Holland America and Norwegian Cruise Line. Reach the required level, and you'll earn free drinks from the casino bar, usually for a full status year. Carnival, Princess and Virgin Voyages also often throw in free drinks (either in the casino or throughout the ship) for individual comped cruises. Everyone actively gambling in the casino gets free well drinks on Celebrity cruises.

In addition, drinks are free in the casinos of luxury cruise lines like Silversea, Seabourn and Regent Seven Seas because all onboard drinks are included in the cruise fare. On the big-ship lines, anyone who purchases a drinks package or cruises on a fare that includes drinks will also be drinking "free" in the casino.

Are cruise ship casinos regulated?

Cruise ship casinos are regulated in two ways. They typically adhere to the laws of the ship's country of registry. But because gambling normally only takes place while the ship is in international waters, cruise lines that sail from U.S. ports also adhere to the rules set out by the Cruise Lines International Association. Those rules state that all equipment purchased and installed on the vessels of member cruise lines will meet the regulatory standards of the Nevada Gaming Control Board or other licensed jurisdiction for payback and internal software.

Additionally, house rules must be made available in every casino. Each member cruise line is to post at every gaming table minimum and maximum betting limits for each game, and only adults are allowed to play the slots or the tables.

What's the age minimum to gamble in a cruise ship casino?

The minimum age for gambling in a cruise ship casino is 18 in most cases, but there are exceptions. MSC Cruises has a minimum gambling age of 21 on any cruise with a U.S. port; otherwise, the age is 18. Some cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, raise the minimum age to 21 on Alaska sailings.

Related: The 6 best cruise lines for young adults

Do ships run casino tournaments?

Cruise ship casinos on mainstream cruise lines often host tournaments on board featuring various casino games. The list includes slot tournaments, as well as card game tournaments for blackjack and Texas Hold 'em.

Some tournaments are invitational, offered to casino loyalty members of a certain level only. These are often held on cruises hosted specifically for players who have reached that level. For instance, Royal Caribbean holds Signature cruises designed to pamper and entertain these top-level players.

Can you smoke in the casino?

Casinos are often seen as the last bastion of cruise ship smoking freedom (beyond small, designated areas on deck). But the number of ships that offer nonsmoking casinos is steadily growing.

Celebrity Cruises does not allow smoking in its ships' casinos, and the relatively small casinos on luxury ships are generally nonsmoking, as well.

Several lines have hybrid options. For example, some Carnival ships have separate smoking and nonsmoking casinos. Norwegian has separate smoking rooms on some ships; however, cigarette smoking and e-cigarette use are allowed in casinos on ships that don't have separate smoking rooms. Princess does not allow smoking except at designated slot machines, and Holland America also has designated smoking areas in the casino.

Related: Is smoking allowed on cruise ships? A line-by-line guide

Do cruise ship casinos take cash?

Cruise ship casinos accept cash at both slot machines and table games. As an example, you can sit down at a slot machine and feed in a $20 bill, which is then converted into "credits" on the machine's screen. The value of the credit depends on the denomination of the machine. Alternatively, you might walk up to a roulette table and lay down $20 and exchange that for chips.

The exchange of cash at machines and tables is a one-way deal, even when you win. Slot machines and dealers in cruise ship casinos don't dispense cash. When you finish playing, you may be issued a paper credit slip to take to the cashier's cage for cash, or you may have your winnings loaded directly onto your onboard account on some cruise lines. At the tables, you will take chips to the cashier to exchange back into cash.

If you don't travel with cash, you can find ATMs in the casino or at guest services. Alternatives to cash in cruise ship casinos are paper credit slips, which can be played as cash at either machines or tables, onboard credit or casino free play loaded on your stateroom account, or lines of credit arranged with the casino.

You can also charge gambling money directly to your onboard account like you would charge a drink at a bar or anything else on board. Fees for gambling charges vary among cruise lines, but in most instances, table games charge a service fee, and slot machines do not.

For example, my husband recently requested money from his onboard account at a blackjack table and was charged a 5% surcharge. The ship we were on was not set up to charge onboard accounts directly from the slot machines (sometimes they are), so I had to go to the cashier for a credit slip to play. I was not charged a surcharge, although if I had asked for cash, I would have been. Both of our charges were added to our final onboard bill.

Because there is no fee added to money for slot play, onboard casinos will usually put rules in place about how quickly you can cash out of the machine. The rules are designed to keep cruisers from using slot machines as ATMs to get either cash for the table games or to cash out onboard credit they've been given from the cruise line or their travel agent.

Bottom line

If you like to gamble, cruise ship casinos provide a fun way to spend a sea day or evening on the ship. You can take lessons to learn the games you don't know how to play and even participate in tournaments.

Besides the fun of playing on board, many cruise lines have players clubs that offer onboard perks and even free cruises. And since the odds of winning are about the same as in a U.S. land-based casino, with similar regulations in place, cruise ship casinos are a safe bet for fun and entertainment — though we always encourage you to play responsibly.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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About the Ship: the Silversea Silver Muse

Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises launched the 596-guest Silver Muse in April 2017, and the luxury ship has eight passenger decks and many features that past Silversea guests and new cruise travelers will love. First, the almost-all inclusive ship has 411 crew members, so the service is outstanding. Every spacious stateroom is a suite and has a designated butler and all the amenities expected from this luxury line. The ship's eight  dining venues include 28 varieties of culinary delights, so multiple selections are available at every meal. In addition, the indoor and outdoor common areas are fashionable and relaxing, with interesting decor and artwork. Finally, the Silver Muse sails worldwide itineraries to fascinating destinations where its guests can interact and hear about different cultures, make life-long memories, and learn more about the world around them ​while staying in the ship's luxury environment.

Standard Suites on the Silver Muse

All 286 suites on the Silver Muse have butler service; twin or queen-sized bed configuration; bed-side USB ports for charging electronic devices; a refrigerator and bar setup stocked with guest preferences; premium bath amenities; fine bed linens and down duvet covers; a choice of pillow types; bathrobes and slippers; personalized stationery; binoculars; umbrella; daily newspaper; large flat screen television with interactive media library; twice daily suite service; and at least one hour complimentary WiFi internet access each day per guest. 

Veranda Suites

Of the 286 suites onboard, the Silver Muse has 230 suites classified as Classic Veranda, Superior Veranda, or Deluxe Veranda.  The three types of veranda suites are identical in size, configuration, and amenities, but the price differs based on location. Each veranda suite has 387 square feet, including a 64 square foot veranda. Veranda Suites are located on decks 5, 6, 7, and 8.

Travelers will appreciate the spacious walk-in closet, marble bath with separate tub and shower, sitting area, two television systems, and the butler and room service. Each Veranda Suite guest receives one-hour of free Wi-Fi service each day. 

Six Veranda Suites connect to the Royal or Grand Suites, making them two-bedroom accommodations for families.

Vista Suites

The Silver Muse has six Vista Suites on deck 4. Three of the suites are wheelchair accessible. These 240-square foot suites have a large window and sitting area but do not have a veranda. They have a shower with a seat, but no bathtub. The rest of the amenities are the same as seen in other suite categories.

Panorama Suites

The Silver Muse has six Panorama Suites on deck 9. These suites measure 334 square feet but have a large picture window instead of a veranda. Since two of the Panorama Suites connect to a Silver Suite and the other four of the Panorama Suites connect to an Owner's Suite, families can book both suites for a two-bedroom accommodation. 

Large Suites on the Silver Muse

In addition to the standard suites, the Silver Muse has four different categories of larger suites. Each provides all the amenities found in the standard suites, but also include large sitting area with a dining table and chairs, separate bedroom with dressing table, large walk-in closet, bathroom with double sinks, separate tub and shower, powder room, espresso machine, two 55-inch television systems (smaller suites have 42-inch), and Bose Sound Touch 30 with Bluetooth connectivity. All of these larger suites also include unlimited WiFi. 

Silver Suites

The 34 Silver Suites on decks 9, 10, and 11 are a favorite of many Silversea guests since they provide a luxurious apartment-like space, but are not as costly as the other three large suite categories. A one-bedroom Silver Suite measures a spacious 786-square-feet and expands to 1119-square-feet when families combine it with an adjoining Panorama Suite. 

The layout of the Silver Suites is similar to that found on the Silver Spirit.

Royal Suites

The two Royal Suites on the Silver Muse are found forward on deck 7. These suites measure 1130-square-feet but expand to 1528-square-feet when combined with an adjoining Veranda Suite. The forward views from these suites are spectacular, and the large living room/dining room and private veranda provide exceptional space for entertaining new or old friends and family.  The authentic Italian furnishings reflect the Silversea heritage.

Grand Suites

The four Grand Suites on the Silver Muse are found forward on deck 8 and 9. Like the Royal Suites, this category has the same amazing forward sea views as those seen from the navigation bridge. The Grand Suites are similar in configuration to the Royal Suites, but are larger, measuring 1475-1572 square feet or 1873-1970 square feet when combined with an adjoining Veranda Suite. The two verandas that wrap around the outside of these suites are about 500 square feet and huge.

The Grand Suites have all the amenities of the Royal Suites but feature a king-sized bed that can be made up as two twin beds rather than a queen-sized.  In addition, guests staying in the Grand Suites can enjoy a complimentary dinner at La Dame.

Owner's Suites

The four Owner's Suites on the Silver Muse are located in a prime location—mid-ship on deck 9 near the Panorama Lounge, spiral staircase, and aft elevators. The one-bedroom Owner's Suites range in size from 1281-1389 square feet with a 129-square-foot balcony or can be combined with an adjoining Panorama Suite, which adds an additional 334 square feet.

Like the Grand Suites, these feature a king-sized bed and the finest in Italian ambiance and furnishings. 

Traditional Dining on the Silver Muse

The Silver Muse has eight different dining venues. Three of these—Atlantide, Indochine, and Spaccanapoli—are complimentary and have open seating for dinner. Three others—La Terrazza, Silver Note, and Hot Rocks Grill—are complimentary, with reservations necessary. The other two restaurants—La Dame and Kaiseki—require reservations and carry an extra surcharge. 

Silversea ships have complimentary drinks all day and night, with about 60 different complimentary wines available on each cruise. About 500 bottles of wine, 500 bottles of beer, and 80 bottles of champagne are consumed each day on the Silver Muse. In addition, 800 cans of soda, 100 Spirits, and 1100 cups of coffee are served. The bartenders quickly learn each guest's preferences, and they offer interesting cocktails and martinis in addition to the standard beer, wine, and mixed drinks. 

In addition to the eight restaurants onboard, the Art Cafe on deck 8 aft serves complimentary light snacks and specialty coffees/teas from 6:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. each day. People gather to eat a late (or early) breakfast and work the daily Sudoku, crossword puzzle, or trivia questions. They also gather for afternoon tea, sandwiches, scones, and snacks. The seating is very comfortable, with space indoors and out.

Guests can also order complimentary 24-hour room service from the menu in their suites. 

Let's take a look at the complimentary restaurants in more detail.

Atlantide is the largest dining venue on the Silver Muse. Located aft on deck 4, its cuisine and variety of tastes is similar to The Restaurant on other Silversea ships. Seafood and steaks are the most popular items, but Atlantide has a huge menu, so it's fun to sample the variety of appetizers, main courses, and desserts by dining at Atlantide on different nights. 

Atlantide also features complimentary breakfast and lunch ordered from a menu. 

Indochine is the Silver Muse's Asian restaurant, with dishes from India, Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, and China on the dinner menu. It is located next to Atlantide on deck 4 aft. Appetizers like beef tataki, Saku tuna, and foie gras with Asian spices will make your mouth water. The soups and noodle bowls (pho and tom yum goong) are delightful; the lobster, crab legs, and red snapper feature tasty flavors; and the short ribs, Osso Bucco, beef, and chicken complete the main menu. Dessert lovers will enjoy the rice pudding and other delicacies.

La Terrazza

Cruise travelers expect an Italian-owned luxury cruise line to have a memorable Italian restaurant, and La Terrazza on the Silver Muse continues as the cruise line's hallmark Italian dining experience. Like the other venues, La Terrazza has a large menu, and the appetizers, plates of pasta, main courses and desserts are all delicious. Many guests start with antipasti like a salad or carpaccio, followed by one of the homemade pasta or soups, and then finish with a beef, veal, or fish dish. Of course, one has to save room for tiramisu or gelato!

La Terrazza has indoor and outdoor dining and is open as a buffet for breakfast and lunch.

The Grill (Hot Rocks)

The Grill is located outdoors by the swimming pool on deck 10 and is open for casual lunch and dinner. Lunch includes hamburgers, hot dogs, sandwiches, salads, and a daily special. Since The Grill stays open longer for lunch, it's a perfect choice for those looking for a late bite after a shore excursion or free time ashore. 

Dinner at The Grill is a favorite of many who love their steak cooked "just right". Since the steaks, seafood, and vegetables are served on a hot rock, guests cook their own, so it should come out perfectly. A selection of side dishes and sauces accompany the grilled food. The steaks are yummy, but the salmon and prawns are also fun to cook. Veggie lovers have a selection of vegetables to choose from, and many foodies agree they taste so much better grilled than steamed.

Spaccanapoli

In addition to a fine Italian restaurant like La Terrazza, it's appropriate for an Italian cruise ship to have an excellent pizzeria, and the Silver Muse has Spaccanapoli , a casual eatery outdoors on deck 11 overlooking the pool. The large selection of pizza toppings will make it difficult to decide, but guests can always go back for a snack, lunch, or dinner since the restaurant is open from 11 am to 11 pm each day.  The thin crust, crispy pizza tastes just like those you find in Naples. In addition, Spaccanapoli serves a selection of about a dozen gelati, frozen yogurts, and sorbets. These treats can be ordered at the table or take-away.

Silver Note

Located next to La Terraza on deck 7, Silver Note is the cruise ship's supper club, with small plates and tapas on the menu. The dinner experience includes a jazz and blues singer and the sometimes even a little dancing. 

Alternative Dining on the Silver Muse

Two specialty restaurants on the Silver Muse have an extra surcharge and require a reservation. These intimate venues offer a memorable meal and exquisite presentation. They are perfect for celebrating a special event like a birthday or anniversary. Both of these venues are tiny, so reservations should be booked before boarding if you want to dine on a select date.

La Dame by Relais & Châteaux

La Dame is the specialty French restaurant on the Silver Muse and has a bespoke dinner menu developed by top chefs from the Relais & Châteaux team. As expected, the menu is filled with rich French food featuring interesting sauces and combinations. 

Kaiseki is the Japanese restaurant on the Silver Muse. Guests can enjoy complimentary sushi at the sushi bar for lunch, and dinner features a teppanyaki grill and sushi. The dinner menu is expansive and memorable.

Silver Muse Interior Common Areas

The interior common areas of the Silver Muse are elegant and subdued, with splashes of bright color in the artwork and accessories. The soft grays and beiges give the cruise ship a quiet, restful ambiance, perfect for a luxury cruise ship. 

Lounges and Bars

The Silver Muse has ten lounges spread around the ship. The Panorama Lounge and Arts Cafe deliver great indoor and outdoor seating and aft sea views. Dolce Vita is the main lounge and occupies a large space on deck 5. It has a bar, comfortable seating, and is the home of the Shore Excursion, Future Cruise Planning, and Reception Desks. Panorama and Dolce Vita usually feature live music before and after dinner.

Tor's Observation Library and Lounge is forward on deck 11 and provides the same great views as the navigation bridge directly below it. This lounge is usually quiet and is a good place to read and watch the scenery. Tor's is named for Torstein Hagen, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Viking Cruises. Mr. Hagen is a good friend of Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the Executive Chairman of Silversea Cruises. Mr. Hagen named the Italian steakhouse restaurant on the Viking Cruises' ocean ships Manfredi's because of the counsel Mr. Lefebvre had provided during the construction and launch of Viking's ocean ships. To reciprocate and celebrate their friendship, Mr. Lefebvre named the observation library "Tor's". 

The Venetian Lounge is the main show lounge on the Silver Muse. It has a cabaret feel and features nightly performances by the Silversea singers and dancers or guest performers who come onto the ship for a few days. The Venetian Lounge is also used for lectures on a variety of topics including destinations, history, or the arts, and the lounge has a wide screen for showing movies.

Connoisseur's Corner is the ship's smoking lounge, with fine cigars, cognac, and rich leather sofas and furnishings. It is located next to the Arts Cafe, aft on deck 8.

The Zagara Spa, Beauty Salon, Barber Shop, and Fitness Center

The spa, beauty, and fitness facilities on the Silver Muse are located on deck 6 aft. Like many cruise ship spas, the Zagara Spa is operated by Steiner Leisure  and offers many different types of facials, massages, and other wellness activities. The spa has nine treatment rooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, an acupuncture suite, relaxation area, and a dedicated outdoor whirlpool. 

The beauty salon and barber shop offer a full range of haircuts, styles, and colors. In addition, men can get a shave and a haircut, and the nail technician offers several different types of manicures and pedicures.

The fitness center has many different types of exercise equipment. It almost makes exercise fun when you have nice sea views! Personal trainers are available for one-on-one training sessions in the gym, and exercise classes are held each day in the fitness center. 

The Boutique Shops

The boutique shops sell a variety of clothing, jewelry, watches, and essential toiletries in the onboard shops. The ship also has an Italian cobbler from Preludio of Capri who will make custom sandals for the guests. Many guests often ask what was the most expensive item ever sold in the onboard boutiques. According to Silversea, it was a $190,000 Hubert diamond bracelet. Swiss watches are also a popular purchase on the Silver Muse.

The Casino on deck 7 of the Silver Muse is small but has slot machines, poker, roulette, and blackjack games.  Silversea reports that the "average" gambler on their ships spends about $50-$100 per day. 

Silver Muse Outdoor Decks

This small ship also has spacious outdoor deck areas. Even travelers on luxury cruises expect plenty of lounges, chairs, and outdoor deck space for sunning or relaxing. You won't find an aqua park or water slides since this ship is quieter and more adult-oriented (although it does have a children's room and outdoor play area on deck 9). 

The swimming pool and two whirlpools are located mid-ship on deck 10.  A third, out-of-the-way whirlpool is found aft on deck 10. Very comfortable lounge chairs are found outdoors throughout the ship, especially on decks 8-11 aft, as are padded chairs perfect for reading or socializing. The pool and bar staff circulate the outdoor area, offering cold towels or icy drinks. The ship has a dedicated walking/jogging track on deck 11 aft, and a partial promenade encircles part of deck 5. 

Overall, this new cruise ship is a great addition to the Silversea fleet and the luxury cruise market. The ship sails to all seven continents and many guests combine multiple segments for an extended superb cruise experience since each segment is different. The Silver Muse is beautiful inside and out and ready to carry Silversea guests to destinations all over the world in the years to come. Just as importantly, the staff is exceptional and ready to provide the high level of service that guests expect from Silversea Cruises.

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The 7 Most Romantic Cruises for Couples to Take in 2024

Posted: November 8, 2023 | Last updated: November 8, 2023

Planning the ultimate couple’s getaway? As much as we love exploring Napa , Palm Beach , and the Hudson Valley , there’s something to be said about investing in an international vacation. Before shelling out for a boutique hotel, though, consider booking a cruise that can be just as romantic (yes, really). We're not talking about old-school cruises with cramped rooms, mediocre buffets, BINGO nights and overcrowded pool decks. These luxury cruises are here to blow your mind with amenities such as private butler service, world-class spas, delicious cuisine (hello, 24/7 complimentary caviar!) and palatial cabins with expansive ocean views, private jacuzzis and more.

Whether your idea of the perfect vacation is a European river adventure, an adults-only South Pacific cruise, or a party-all-night Caribbean rendezvous, there’s a cruise for you. To prove it, we rounded up the seven best cruises for couples. Check out these romantic options, below.

Crystal Cruises

If you’re looking to book a beautiful vacation on and off the ship, Crystal Cruises is worth considering. In addition to well-appointed palatial suites and a stunning spa (complete with massages, facials, naturopathic healing, and gentleman’s grooming services), Crystal Cruises is a foodie’s paradise. With nine distinct culinary options ranging from American and Italian to Japanese and Peruvian food, there’s something for everyone.

When booking a Crystal Cruise for your couple’s getaway, go all out with a Veranda or Penthouse suite. That way, you’ll have plenty of space, as well as the opportunity to take in the open seas from your very own balcony. If you’re toying with the idea of taking a sabbatical and making the absolute most of it, Crystal Cruises does have a World Cruise scheduled to set sail in 2025. The 123-night cruise will explore 62 destinations and 31 countries for what’s sure to be the trip of a lifetime.

Explore Crystal Cruises

Virgin Voyages

If your idea of the perfect couple’s vacation is one without kids, Virgin Voyages is the way to go. With destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, and the South Pacific—just to name a few—Virgin Voyages offers unforgettable oceanic excursions via its four-ship fleet.

For couples in the U.S., consider hopping about The Scarlet Lady, a large-scale ocean liner with a 2,762 sailor capacity. As the name suggests, The Scarlet Lady is a ship with decor and experiences drenched in sultry red. When you set sail on The Scarlet Lady (or any Virgin Voyages ship), you can anticipate all-inclusive cuisine, non-alcoholic beverages, group workouts, and Wi-Fi. While the beverage package is an additional cost, the adults-only landscape makes it worth it.

As for the cabins, they’re all chic but the Sea Terrace or Rockstar Quarters are the way to go for a truly unforgettable couple’s escape. If you go with the latter, you’ll even have your own private terrace jacuzzi.

Explore Virgin Voyages Cruises

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

While ocean cruises are most common, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours makes a case for river excursions, too. That said, if you and your partner love river life and taking in the city shores, exploring new cities and towns as you go, you’ll fall head over heels for Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours.

In addition to dozens of oceanic adventures, the cruise line offers cruise explorations of nine of the world’s most iconic rivers, including the Seine, Rhine, Mekong, and Bordeaux rivers. If you ask us, it doesn’t get much better than the Scenic Gem, which winds up and down the Seine over the course of eight days and features stops in Paris, Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Normandy.

One thing to note: Since this river cruise is all about luxurious sleep set-ups, delicious food, and awe-inspiring excursions, there aren’t as many wellness and leisure amenities aboard the ship (though, there is a small gym). That said, the all-inclusive cruise line offers butler service for all suites to boot, so if your goal is to make your partner feel pampered, it’s worth looking into.

Explore Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Viking Cruises

If you love the idea of cruising a river with your partner but are hoping for a lengthier aquatic adventure with striking cabins, Viking Cruises is the way to go. Although the cruise line offers a variety of oceanic cruises, the river excursions are what it’s known for. To make the most of the experience, we suggest going all out with a Veranda or Explorer Suite (both of which have balconies for you and your beloved to enjoy) for the Grand European Tour , which explores 13 cities and four countries across 15 days, with the option to personalize the experience with three pre-cruise and four post-cruise overnights.

Best of all, the trip comes with 12 guided tours, so you’ll be immersed in the culture of each of the cities you visit. (FYI: If you’re looking for a domestic cruise, Viking also has a Mississippi cruise which explores the river for eight to 22 days, depending on which option you book.)

Explore Viking Cruises

Silversea is dubbed the “crown jewel” of the Royal Caribbean Group. The all-inclusive cruise line self-proclaimed the label but with an offering so vast, we’d say it has earned it, too. Aboard Silversea ships, guests can enjoy around-the-clock gourmet dining, scrumptious craft cocktails and bubbly Champagne, butler service, and 24/7 access to complimentary caviar.

Suffice to say, it’s a couple’s paradise. All you have to do is pick which destination and duration aligns best with your dream vacation vision. As for the ship, the Silver Dawn is a popular pick, especially with its all-new, ultra-chic spa, OTIVM. Whatever you do, when booking, consider upgrading to a Superior or Deluxe Veranda Suite to make the most of your time on the water.

Explore Silversea Cruises

Royal Caribbean

Icon of the Seas is one of the latest ships to join Royal Caribbean’s fleet and while it still offers plenty of family-friendly, price-conscious staterooms, the vessel is a dream for vivid voyagers with a passion for great food, entertaining nightlife, and tranquil spa experiences. Complete with a sports and arcade bar, karaoke bar, a casino, and an English pub, the Icon of the Seas has plenty to offer night owl couples looking to explore the Caribbean.

Of course, it also has an impressive seven pools, not to mention the largest waterpark at sea. While you might think that that means kids will be everywhere you look, the ship actually has an area dedicated for families, as well as adult-only aqua escapes. As for the cabins, they’re spacious, well-lit, and equipped with floor-to-ceiling views of the ocean (if you book an ocean-view room). If you ask us, though, the ultimate couple’s vacation calls for upgrading to a Sunset Corner Suite.

Explore Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas

Windstar Cruises

Whether you’re in search of peaceful tranquility, unbelievable gastronomic delights, invigorating on-shore excursions, or merely a more intimate small-scale cruise experience, Windstar Cruises is worth considering. The six-ship fleet features smaller capacities, each carrying no more than a few hundred guests. For the most intimate experience, you’ll want to book the Wind Star or Wind Spirit, which both carry no more than 148 guests.

Just keep in mind, since these are smaller ships, there aren’t balcony rooms—just ocean view. Still, with destinations in Asia, Australia and New Zealand, Canada and New England, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and more, the cultural experiences, and the James Beard-partnered culinary program will all but make up for it.

Explore Windstar Cruises

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Silversea launches the ultra-modern silver ray.

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When you’ve got a winning formula, stick with it. Even before Silversea launched their first new Nova Class vessel last year with the handsome Silver Nova , the luxury cruise line knew that its Silver Ray sister ship would be an equally instant followup hit. The launch of the Silver Ray , whose naming ceremony took place last month in Lisbon, also happened to mark the line’s 30th anniversary. And now, as the twelfth ship in the fleet, the Silver Ray is rapidly gaining fans as it cruises the Mediterranean and Greek Isles before it sails to the Americas at the end of the year.

Launched mid-June, the Silver Ray is the second vessel in Silversea's Nova Class.

Earlier this year, Silversea’s Royal Caribbean Group parent company also launched its Icon of the Seas to great fanfare. At 250,000 gross registered tonnage that largest vessel on the seas carries five times the weight of the Silver Ray . But as the Silver Ray team is quick to point out, the level of complexity in these new generation vessels is the same, with the number of working components adding up to some 50 million in each.

The second vessel after the Nova to be built in the Meyer Werft shipyard on the northern German Ems River, the Ray also features hybrid power sources, including liquified natural gas (LNG). And developments such as using compost to produce heat are particularly attractive to a new generation of passengers.

Ship cost then is certainly not a function of size alone. Just take into account too the amount of marble and the 40,000 square feet of exterior glass that the Silver Ray carries. Not to mention the work it took to come up with and execute its radical new asymmetrical design that has shattered the cruise ship norm.

The introduction of asymmetric design in the Nova Class ships, as here on the Silver Ray, was an ... [+] instant hit.

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With great open spaces, the footprint of the Ray is largely the same as the Nova . Dynamic new technologies have vastly reduced engine noise and vibration which allows for a complete recalculation of cabin and suite placements and shapes.

Both vessels have–in, for example, a Deluxe Veranda Suite that measures 355 square feet—floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors to their private verandas, and blackout curtains between the beds and sofa and ottoman area. Ample storage space includes nightstands with shelves. And of course your butler will deliver caviar service at your whim. (Further details in a Silver Nova post here ).

The Ray does have some subtle new touches you wouldn’t be expected to notice but which have a big payoff, such as a chamfered door to your large walk-in closet that allows for a bit more cabin interior space. And then there are back-of-house changes not visible to guests that include an attractive and commodious crew area stocked with amenities for the 544 crew who serve 728 guests.

Silver Ray cabins and suites are all veranda style.

Both vessels also carry the most stunning and enormous of art collections in the Silversea family, with images placed prominently onboard that were commissioned from famed photographer Steve McCurry (see a Nova art post here ).

The cruise line’s new Otium spa is as full service and inviting as the chicest of urban ones. Cabin bathroom amenities are Otium labeled as well, and nicely do away with single use bottles and containers.

In some five years since inception, Silversea’s S.A.L.T. program has taken ever greater steps into cooking up perhaps the industry’s most innovative culinary and drinks scenes (more S.A.L.T. news in a post to follow).

And then there are Silversea’s well-plotted shore excursions. On a quick pre-christening sail from Lisbon to Cádiz, passengers could opt for a guided afternoon tour, or just take off themselves, through this historically mega-significant, but lesser visited Andalusian port that was founded by Phoenicians.

It takes just minutes to walk from the cruise marina into the narrow and windy ancient Pópulo quarter. Or, start wandering your way down long and straight streets lined with 19th-century neo-Romantic homes built by a bourgeoisie made rich off of global trade and who filled their shady parks and squares with exotic New World botany. There’s also the Baroque and Neoclassical cathedral to see, or the Abastos covered market, and any number of fine urban beaches to lounge on.

Silversea commissioned images from photographer Steve McCurry.

By evening, passengers who opted to head to the nearby city of Jerez were treated to a flamenco evening at the century-old Tabanco Pasaje wine merchant bar. Four rousing performers shared a tiny stage, with guests nibbling on tuna and anchovies inches from the performers. Yes, it’s touristy, and yes, you’re a tourist. It’s also super fun, and how often at show’s end do you receive an empty bottle of your own to fill straight from their casks of a dry fino or a sweeter sherry of your choice?

Having taken recent delivery of six ships, Silversea is clearly on the move. At the Silver Ray June christening, veteran ship captain Alessandro Zanello was joined by Silversea’s new president Bert Hernandez and Royal Caribbean Group CEO Jason Liberty. The trio welcomed and introduced the Silver Ray godmother Dr. María Josefina Olascoaga.

The Argentine-born professor of ocean science at the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science “focuses on the study of transport and mixing in the ocean,” per Silversea’s announcement. “She also co-leads OceanScope, a unique public, private and academic program, that equips Royal Caribbean Group ships with oceanographic instruments to collect the ocean’s vital signs.”

Which means there’s even a lot more big stuff going on with the Silver Ray behind the scenes.

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Every seat in this luxury cruise ship’s multi-tiered venue enjoys a clear view to the stage. Applaud a broad spectrum of entertainment brought to the Silver Whisper — from full-scale production shows and classical soloists, to cultural entertainment and feature films. Throughout your voyage, The Show Lounge also presents port talks, enrichment lectures and a variety of special events throughout the cruise.

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Broadway cruises to book in 2025

Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem will host a Broadway cruise in 2025.  Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line

“There’s nothing more fun than going scuba diving with a Tony winner,” says Philip Birsh. And he should know. The chairman and CEO of Playbill has been running Broadway cruises since 2011, high-end trips that allow passengers to travel to exotic locales while mingling with some of the top names in theater — Patti LuPone, Brian Stokes Mitchell, Audra McDonald, Santino Fontana.

“There are all kinds of cruises,” says Birsh, jazz, bridge, wine, classic movies. Broadway seemed a perfect match, which explains why in recent years other companies have entered the market. Actor and musician Seth Rudetsky, who grew up on Long Island, started hosting Broadway-themed cruises in 2017. And in 2023, Atlanta-based Sixthman added 4-5 night Broadway cruises to its travel roster that also includes rock and country cruises, even a Hallmark cruise.

“It’s a special environment, we try to make people feel like they’re part of a club,” says Birsh, noting that Playbill’s Broadway cruises take place two to three times a year on small, boutique ships (Silversea, Uniworld, Ponant) that hold 200 to 300 passengers. The cruises are expensive, upcoming cruises start around $6,000 a person and go up to more than $10,000 for a suite,  acknowledges Birsh, but the company gets a lot of returning customers. “We have one couple who’s been on every cruise we’ve ever done,” he says.

“Zany stuff happens on stage,” says Birsh, recalling a time when LuPone spontaneously joined actor Howard McGillin on stage for a duet from “Anything Goes.” Or when Fontana and Christopher Fitzgerald did an impromptu performance of the famed comedy routine “Who’s On First?”

Entertainers Gavin Creel and Denée Bentonon performing on a recent Playbill cruise to Tahiti and the Society Islands. Passengers at a makeshift bar in the waters of Tahiti.  Credit: Arturo Olmos

Think of it as theater camp at sea, says Rudetsky, who runs three cruises (Seth’s Big Fat Broadway Cruise) a year. The host of the SiriusXM show “On Broadway,” Rudetsky books 100 to 200 people on a large cruise ship that can hold several thousand people. The group pretty much sticks together, he says. “We hang out, go on excursions, eat together,” he explains. “For a true Broadway fan,” he says, “what could beat riding the elevator with Chita Rivera.”

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Passengers on one of Rudetsky’s cruises do more than watch shows put on by Broadway stars like Rivera, Adam Pascal, and Donna McKechnie. If they’re interested, they get to perform with them. Each cruise ends with a concert featuring all the performers, and passengers join them in performing one of their signature songs — Pascal lead the group in “Seasons of Love” from “Rent,” Rivera supervised a “West Side Story” medley, McKechnie taught choreography from “A Chorus Line.”

Performer Gavin Creel enjoying the tropics on the Tahiti cruise.  Credit: Arturo Olmos

“This gave us the opportunity to combine our love of cruising with our love of Broadway,” says Sandy Lory-Snyder, a Hauppauge resident who went on Sixthman’s first Broadway cruise in 2023 with her daughter Arianna. The five-night cruise from New York City to Bermuda featured an impressive list of Broadway talent — among them Kristin Chenoweth, Joshua Henry, Laura Benanti and  Jeremy Jordan. Lory-Snyder was especially taken by Alan Cumming’s performance. “His act was so personal,” she recalls. “I almost felt like he was doing it for me.”

UPCOMING CRUISES

Broadway in venice.

S.S. La Venezia cruise ship's Grand Suite.  Credit: Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Sept. 13-24 on the S.S. La Venezia, Uniworld (126 passengers), round trip from Venice with stops in Chioggia, Porto Viro and Burano. Talent to be announced. Prices start at $6,049 a person, which includes meals and beverages, standard shore excursions, gratuities, two nights pre-cruise in Milan, and all Playbill entertainment.

Seth’s Big Fat Broadway Cruise

In January 2025, the Celebrity Apex cruise ship will depart from Ft. Lauderdale with stops in St. Kitts, British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic. Credit: Getty Images/Finnbarr Webster

Jan. 11-18, 2025 on the Celebrity Apex (2,910 passengers), from Ft. Lauderdale with stops in St. Kitts, British Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic. Talent includes Liz Callaway, Leslie Rodriguez Kritzer and Tony Yazbeck. Prices start at $2,141 for an inside cabin or $2,771 for an infinite veranda, including meals and class beverage, gratuities and Wi-Fi, along with group activities like Seth’s radio show, Broadway Bingo, autograph sessions and more. This is one of Celebrity’s newer ships, meaning lots of bells and whistles, including 29 restaurants (some have an additional charge), spa, fitness center and casino.

More info: 917-522-0985,  sethrudetsky.com

The Broadway Cruise 3

Norwegian Gem will host a Broad cruise round trip from Miami with a stop in Cozumel.  Credit: Rick Diaz/Norwegian Cruise Line

March 31-April 4, 2025 on the Norwegian Gem (2,394 passengers) roundtrip from Miami with a stop in Cozumel. Talent includes Shoshana Bean, Wayne Brady, Alex Brightman and Eva Noblezada. Prices start at $1,165 for an inside stateroom, $2,100 for a balcony, including meals, basic non-alcoholic beverages, several specialty restaurants including sushi and a steak house (additional charge), fitness center, spa and casino.

More info: 877-379-9172,  thebroadwaycruise.com

Broadway in the Greek Isles

June 25-July 2, 2025 on L’Austral, Ponant (264 passengers), round trip from Athens, stops include Patmos, Mykonos, Hydra. Talent to be announced. Prices start at $6,497 a person, including meals and most beverages, gratuities and Playbill entertainment.

More info: 866-455-6789, playbilltravel.com

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By gertie007 , January 8, 2020 in Silversea

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can you charge casino chips to your cruise card account or is it only cash

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Share on other sites.

Daveywavey70

Yes you can charge them to your ships account. They just advance you the dollars in the casino which you then exchange for chips.  When you cash out they don’t credit it to the account though they just give you dollars back. 

On 1/9/2020 at 7:45 PM, Daveywavey70 said: Yes you can charge them to your ships account. They just advance you the dollars in the casino which you then exchange for chips.  When you cash out they don’t credit it to the account though they just give you dollars back. 

Isn't there a service charge for this?

49 minutes ago, Mahogany said: Isn't there a service charge for this?

I don't recall sorry. If there was it was minimal.

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• Ocean Cruises For those who delight in discovery and seek truly immersive travel
• Expedition Cruises Witness the most far-flung, thrilling, and extraordinary places on the planet.
• World Cruises An adventure curated by experts. Experience the world’s most remarkable sights.
• Grand Voyages Experience the very best of one region. Don’t just go there, get to know there.
• Special Combination Cruises The best of both worlds. Two incredible voyages. One unforgettable experience.
• Enriched Voyages Our voyages not only take you to the four corners of the globe but keep you entertained as you get there.
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• Hotels & Trasfers Enjoy more time exploring the world’s most fascinating cities with Silversea’s optional pre- and post- hotel programmes.
• Land Programmes Your thrilling voyage on the high seas blended with an exciting land adventure.
• PRIVATE EXECUTIVE TRANSFERS Our private chauffeur takes you to and from the airport in style and comfort.
• Personalised Service Your every need anticipated with white glove service including your own butler.
• Onboard Areas From an ocean view suite to high-end restaurants and bars, the choice is yours.
• Onboard Activities Savour our exemplary spa and fitness services plus iconic S.A.L.T experiences.
• S.A.L.T. Experience S.A.L.T's immersive concept with Silversea! Set sail on an All-inclusive Luxury Cruise and discover authentic beauty of the world!
• Ashore Our array of authentic local experiences ashore ensures truly immersive travel.
• Travel Requirements Everything you need to know about preparing and packing for your voyage.
• General Information Whether your first Silversea cruise or your tenth, you will naturally have questions about various cruise policy regulations.
• Faq Your questions answered in one place. Ensure your voyage is truly wonderful.
• What to Pack Find out what to pack using our onboard attire guide and expeditions packing list with tips curated by our expedition experts.

• Luxury Oceanview Suites Spacious suites with butler service and a choice of lavish amenities ensure personalised comfort and absolute indulgence.
• Fine Dining From fine dining to informal venues to delicious in-suite service, Silversea’s gastronomic options have never been rivalled.
• Public Areas There’s a tremendous variety of public spaces on board, from relaxed bars to elegant restaurants, always offering you the luxury of choice.
• Door-to-Door Let us take care of you during your journey from the moment you leave home.
• Port-to-Port Make your own travel plans and we’ll warmly welcome you as you step onboard.
• Essential Fancy a last-minute cruise? Travel on these time-limited selected voyages.
• Exclusive offers

• Why Silversea
• US$1,000 EXCLUSIVE

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Experience the epitome of high-end immersive travel, where carefully curated itineraries and onboard luxury blend seamlessly to reveal iconic cities and hidden gems.

Expedition Cruises

Our cutting-edge itineraries provide endless opportunities to venture from pole to pole and discover places that very few ever have the opportunity to visit.

New Voyages Collections

Summer 2025

The most inspirational journeys into the authentic heart of each region – encountering extraordinary people, places and stories you’ll treasure for years to come.

Winter 2025/26

Explore the places that inspired the myths and discover a treasury of sights, sounds and stories from around the world; unique experiences you will always remember

Signature Cruises

Our Signature Cruises will ignite your passions to dive into the finer things of life

Enriched Voyages

Our voyages not only take you to the four corners of the globe but keep you entertained as you get there.

World Cruises

A world cruise changes your life. A Silversea world cruise changes your life many times over. A unique opportunity.

Grand Voyages

We believe that in order to understand a region, you need to spend time in it. Our Grand Voyages are perfect for those who want to discover in depth.

Combination Cruises

Combination Cruises do exactly just that: combine two or more magical voyages into one superb experience!

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Over 900 Destinations Worldwide

With over 900 destinations across all 7 continents, wherever you want to go, you can get there with Silversea

Africa & Indian Ocean

Arctic & Greenland

Australia & New Zealand

Canada & New England

Caribbean & Central America

French Polynesia & Pacific

Galápagos Islands

Mediterranean

Northern Europe & The British Isles

South America

Transoceanic