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The Best Riverboat Casinos in the World

Robert Bell

Suppose you want a gambling experience that perfectly blends the pleasure of traditional gaming with the fun of a riverboat tour. In that case, you should be playing in a riverboat casino and   online casinos .

Riverboat casinos are floating establishments in the river that offer all the perks of land-based casino in Singapore . They are primarily found in the United States, along the Mississippi River and its side streams, and along the Gulf Coast.

The Best Riverboat Casinos in the World

Best Riverboat Casinos

Originally, several states authorized these casinos to limit the areas where casinos could be established while also enabling gambling across different areas. Though riverboats were hardly taken away from the dock when these casinos were originally built, there are now several states where riverboat casinos sail along the river. Therefore, if you are prone to seasickness, an anchored riverboat casino might be a perfect fit for you. 

Today, there are a slew of riverboat casinos worldwide, with the Mississippi river housing the most impressive ones. Though it may seem like floating casinos do not have all the features of a land-based casino, they do provide some luxuries that make up for all the Vegas style amenities that they lack. 

person playing poker

As far as variety in games is concerned, riverboat casinos offer the same variety in gaming as a land-based casino while also allowing customers to relish their gambling experience more with exquisite scenery gliding beside them. Here’s a list of some of the best riverboat casinos in the world: 

The Star of Fortune, Buenos Aires

This Buenos Aires riverboat casino is one the most striking gambling spots in the world. It’s more commonly known by its nickname, The Star of Fortune. This casino has some very luxurious bars and restaurants with a wide range of cuisines. With over 150 tables and more than seven hundred games including various slot machines, roulette, and blackjack, you can have the most remarkable gambling experience on this riverboat. The Star of Fortune should be your first pick if you’re looking for an amazing riverboat cruise accompanied by one of the best gaming experiences of your life. 

a person holding casino chips

Mississippi Belle II, USA

This river-dwelling casino based in Iowa is much more than just a gambling spot. It offers so many recreations for children which makes it a perfect place to visit with family. From poker and blackjack to roulette and craps, you’ll find all kinds of gaming opportunities in this riverboat casino. It offers many amazing amenities like delicatessens, restaurants, and a large activity center for children.

people playing poker

Hollywood Casino, USA

Hollywood Casino is particularly famous for its slot games. It offers a wide range of games including 3-Card poker, 21 + 3 blackjack, Royal Match 21, Cajun Stud and many others. Besides its miscellaneous games collection, it has many special amenities like a wide range of buffets to choose from, amazing restaurants, and live music. 

a card dealer holding a card in front of the players

Treasure Chest Casino, USA

If you want to have an extraordinary gambling experience accompanied by other entertainments, Treasure Chest casino, Louisiana is an ideal spot for you. It has an all-you-can-eat buffet which is one of the most attractive amenities of the place. The most unique feature of this Louisiana-based casino is its big prize giveaways. Besides its various amenities, it has around 36 table games including Mississippi Stud, Pai Gow, mini-baccarat, craps, roulette, and blackjack. For free spins and up to €250 in bonuses, visit platincasino.com/ie/book-of-the-princess.html

Robert Bell

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Riverboat Gambling In The US – The Best Riverboat Casinos

Jane Shaw

We count on Jane to inform our readers about the latest slot games in the US market. With her passion for video games and a degree in engineering, she’s our gambling tech expert . Jane’s also active in our blog section, where she tackles the curiosities and changes in the industry.

guide on luxurious riverboat casinos in the USA

If you were to close your eyes and imagine a riverboat casino, your mind will probably conjure up an image that would look like something straight out of a Mark Twain novel. Riverboats are represented in pop culture as paddlewheel steamboats that float around languidly, while the cacophony of laughter and excited hoots make their way through the air.

However, riverboat casinos are far more advanced than once thought out to be, offering a unique experience to tourists and seasoned gamblers. In this guide, we’ll take a trip down the river and explore the origins, history and current state of the best riverboat casinos in the USA. All aboard!

Riverboat Gambling In The US – The Rise of the Riverboat Casinos

If only it was easy to point out a go-to destination for the best riverboat casinos. Riverboat gambling goes back a long way through American history. To see a complete picture of riverboat gambling today, we need to first ride down the cruise ship of history to discover the origins of riverboat gambling . Meanwhile, if you are located in any state with legal online gambling, you can play at any of the best online casinos in the US . Read on till the end of this guide to take your pick on the best riverboat casino locations.

  • 📖 History of riverboat gambling
  • ⛵ Riverboat gambling economies
  • 🧐 Fun Facts
  • 💰 Riverboat Casinos Today

History of Riverboat Gambling in the USA

When riverboat gaming first took the USA by storm, paddlewheel riverboats had long been used on the Mississippi River as a means of passenger and freight transportation. With the advent of the railways, riverboats saw their utility decline and started to be viewed as entertainment and leisure vessels by the public.

Boat cruises were popular for their live music and dancing, but also as a way to escape the crowded cities across the US. As these boats became entertainment hubs, gambling gained popularity on board . Initially, gambling was limited to card and table games, but slot machines were eventually added to most riverboats. Nowadays, players in states with legal online gambling can enjoy the best real money online casinos . For example, if they are within the state of New Jersey, they can enjoy the best online casinos in NJ without leaving the comfort of their own homes.

As the Mississippi River served as the border of several states, it created the perfect legal gray area. In 1903, several states simultaneously softened their stance on gambling due to the economic potential that it offered. Thus began the golden era of riverboat gambling . The first casinos were required to be located on ships that would have to sail away from the dock. In some parts, gambling was only allowed once the ship was sailing.

The Lyndon B. Johnson Era

The administration under Lyndon. B Johnson placed significant restrictions on what riverboat casinos could legally do. In 1951, the Transportation of Gambling Devices Act was passed, which made the transportation of gambling devices across state borders illegal. This placed limitations on how riverboats could operate.

Riverboat casinos were first approved by state lawmakers in the late 20th century by those states which prohibited gambling on land. In the 1980s, lawmakers had the vision to revive the golden era of riverboat gambling. Several states simultaneously introduced laws that permitted gambling on water vessels, creating the framework under which they still operate today. Iowa was the first state to fully legalize riverboat gambling . Apart from Iowa, Riverboat gambling is legal in Mississippi, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, and Missouri too.

Riverboat Casino Economies

In 2010, there were 10 operational riverboat casinos. This number might pale in comparison to the number of land casinos in the United States, but riverboat gambling saw a massive boom during the 2010s. In 2018, there were 63 riverboat casinos in operation across the legal states. This spike in growth suggests that riverboat casinos have a distinct appeal, separate from that of land-based casinos.

Riverboats make massive contributions to local economies, as all winnings are taxed by the state. Before you start playing, make sure to acquaint yourself with the gambling commission of the state in which you are planning on playing. In Iowa, if you win over $1,200, you’ll be paying an eye-watering 15% as tax to the state and 5% to the local community, whereas in Iowa, the tax rate stands at a little over 5%.

Proponents of riverboat casinos frequently argue that these floating casinos increase employment rates in the communities where the boats are docked. To support the requirements of large floating casinos, communities are engaged in the development of restaurants, shopping, accommodation, recreation, and other hospitality facilities to capitalize on the spending power of visiting tourists .

Since state legislatures were never willing to give up on the revenues generated by casinos. In a unique ruling in 1998, courts had stated that boats had to be “solely over and in contact with the surface” of rivers, thereby eliminating the need for actual floating vessels. Over time, the rules were amended to allow the construction of casinos on stilts , with the caveat that they had to be located in navigable water.

Fun Facts About Riverboat Casinos

Before we get into the list of top riverboat gambling destinations, we would like to share a few fun historical facts and trivia that you might find interesting. These facts might even make good conversation starters should you get down to maritime gaming.

When riverboat gambling was legalized for the first time in the late 1980s, different states put forward varying cosmetic requirements . In an inconvenience to casino owners, all Louisiana riverboat casinos were required to be constructed exactly like the 19th-century paddlewheel steamboats, for reasons unknown. To run a legal riverboat casino in Indiana, vessels had to have a minimum length of 150 feet and a minimum carrying capacity of 500 passengers.

There have also been violent incidents associated with riverboat gambling. As riverboat casinos operated on the water, it was often thought that they were somehow exempt from the laws of the land. Historians have discovered several instances of individuals punishing cheaters and thieves by taking the law into their own hands. in 1835, five gamblers were lynched in Vicksburg Mississippi when they were caught cheating.

Some of the biggest reforms to riverboat gambling were brought on – unfortunately – by Hurricane Katrina. Before 2005, most riverboat casinos only allowed gambling when the vessel was sailing. However, this was not realistic all year round, as boats could not leave their docks in unpredictable weather . After Katrina, most state laws dictate that riverboat casinos need to be docked for safety.

Riverboat Casinos Today

The Mississippi River region is still the hotbed of all riverboat gambling in the United States. Today, there are over 20 riverboat casinos that gamblers can choose from. Let’s take a look at some of the best riverboat casinos today. In order to make this list, the casinos that we evaluated have had to meet stringent requirements of variety, novelty, hospitality, and service.

The Amelia Belle, Louisiana

One of the best riverboat casinos in Louisiana that we recommend are owned by Boyd Gaming, the casino giant from Paradise Nevada. The Amelia Belle is located in Amelia Louisiana , between Houma and Morgan City, built on the edge of the water in the Avoca Island Cutoff waterway.

The Amelia Belle could easily be considered one of the beautiful casinos in this guide. Spread out over four stories, it sports a turn-of-the-century look and appears stunning when illuminated at night. The Amelia Belle has over 800 slot machines and 15 table games .

The Amelia Belle recently added dining options to feed the hunger of visiting gamblers. If you are visiting, drop by the Bayou Cafe on the first floor to grab a quick bite. The Amelia Belle is open 24×7 on the weekends and you can expect games like Blackjack, Texas Hold ‘Em, Three Card Poker, and Electronic Roulette.

Grand Victoria Casino, Illinois

The El Dorado Resorts-owned Grand Victoria Casino is located on the Fox River in Elgin, Illinois. The Grand Victoria stands out from the other top riverboat casinos in this guide as it has an abundance of restaurants on board . Before we look into their gastronomical offerings, let’s examine gambling aboard the Grand Victoria.

The Grand Victoria offers a gambling experience unmatched by others in the area. With a casino floor that covers 29850 square feet , you could spend hours at the Grand Victoria without going through everything that’s on offer. The casino even has a High Limit Room for big bettors.

Within the casino, you’ll find 1000 of the most popular slot machines and video poker games. You can also try your hand at 29 Vegas-style table games, a poker room, a lounge, and seasonal entertainment venues . There are also several well-established hotels near Grand Victoria, in case you want to make your excursion a multi-day affair.

While most riverboat casinos were slow to catch up to fine dining experiences, the Grand Victoria is ahead of the curve. You can indulge yourself at four restaurants on board named Buckinghams Steakhouse and Lounge, Indulge Show Kitchen Buffer, Crave Deli and Prime Burger house.

Casino Queen Marquette

Casino Queen Marquette is a smaller riverboat casino owned by CQ Holdings. Thanks to its small size and limited capacity, Queen Marquette offers a more exclusive and personalized experience in comparison to other top riverboat casinos. Located next to a 31-acre site, the casino has a marina, an enclosed dining pavilion on the first floor, and an entertainment center on the second floor.

Since it is a small and quaint casino, you will only find 8 live tables at Queen Marquette. This is balanced out with the provision of 566 slot machines and video poker games . Some of the games you can look forward to playing at Queen Marquette are Mississippi Stud, Ultimate Texas Hold ‘em, Blackjack and Fusion Roulette.

Ameristar Casino MIssissippi

The Ameristar Casino is located on the banks of the famed Mississippi River. It is conveniently located on the Mississippi-Louisiana border just off Interstate 20. The casino is part of a much larger complex featuring a hotel, three restaurants, a blues bar, a cabaret, and a full-service RV Park.

The Ameristar Casino has 70,000 square feet of the casino floor. You can enjoy games at 27 tables or 1571 gaming machines. There are also 10 live-action poker tables. The casino has been designed to retain the atmosphere of a 19th-century gambling boat .

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve had your eyes glued to the screen till the end of this guide, you know exactly where to go to find an authentic riverboat gambling experience in the USA>. Apart from the casino boats mentioned in this guide, there are several others that are worth looking into. However, we can guarantee that you will have a fabulous experience playing at the casinos that we have covered in this guide.

Is riverboat gambling legal in the USA?

How many riverboat casinos are operational in the usa, which is the best riverboat gambling facility in america, what games are available at the best riverboat casinos, what additional facilities are available at riverboat casinos.

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Talk about casino destinations and you’ll most likely think of Las Vegas, Atlantic City or, if you are travelling outside the US, maybe Monaco or Macau.

Amelia Belle Casino

Yet what are called “land based” or “bricks and mortar” casinos to differentiate them from the online versions are not necessarily on land or made of bricks and mortar.

We refer, of course, to riverboat casinos, a little slice of Americana that’s as American as Super Bowl Sunday or Thanksgiving turkey. Riverboat casinos conjure up images of the Mississippi and Mark Twain complete with white suit, top hat and cigar. There are more than 60 riverboat casinos operating in the USA and every single one of them has a story to tell. Here, we highlight a handful of the very best.

The Grand Victoria, Elgin

Our first stop is not on the Mississippi at all, but on the Fox River in Elgin, 50 miles north west of Chicago . Owned and operated by Caesars Entertainment, the Grand Victoria really is a slice of Las Vegas on the Illinois waterfront.  With more than 1,000 slots and video poker terminals and 36 tables, there’s a great choice of games.

If all that gambling whets your appetite, there are four dining options on board, including the highly rated Buckingham’s Steakhouse and Lounge.

Casino Queen, Marquette  

The Casino Queen would look like a lifeboat if it was moored alongside the Grand Victoria, but that is all part of its charm. It offers a more intimate and personalized experience, and although there are only eight tables, they host an intriguing variety of games that are not commonly found in land (or water) based casinos. If you know how to gamble online in the US , you’ve probably seen fusion blackjack and 21+3 at US online casinos. The Casino Queen gives you an opportunity to play them in real casino surroundings.

When you step ashore, there is an adjacent 31-acre entertainment complex with a variety of attractions and a huge choice of dining options.

The Amelia Belle, Amelia  

At last, we arrive in Louisiana, where the Amelia Belle lies nestled in the Avoca Island Cutoff waterway. This classic four-story riverboat looks like it has stepped straight out of a photograph from the turn of the 20 th century. When it is lit up at night, it takes your breath away.

At the tables, poker is the order of the day. The casino offers Mississippi stud, 3-card poker and Texas Holdem. There are also 800 slot games, while the Fanduel sportsbook has self-service betting kiosks, a wall full of television screens, and a huge video wall to show the biggest events.

Sam’s Town, Shreveport

On the opposite side of Louisiana, Sam’s Town could not be more different to the Amelia Belle. This floating leisure complex houses a hotel, health spa, sauna and live entertainment venue.

The casino offers more than 1,000 slots and 30 table games that include blackjack, roulette, baccarat, Let it Ride and Craps No More.

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Riverboat Casinos in New Orleans

New Orleans is the tiny port city in the southeastern corner of the state of Louisiana in the USA. This city is apart from being known for its rich culture and heritage is also known for its innovative forms of casinos. Louisiana was the fourth state of United States that legalized gambling in the riverboat casinos New Orleans. a riverboat casino New Orleans is a unique concept of an operating a casino in the riverboat cruise on the river Mississippi and its tributaries. New Orleans being the most significant cities along the bank of Mississippi, makes the most of this innovative idea as the best casino in New Orleans are in these tours and cruise boats.

Riverboat Gambling

As explained earlier the riverboat casino New Orleans is a unique idea developed by the authorities to help the gamblers enjoy the fun of gambling in a natural setting of the most satiating river bed. These riverboat casinos have everything in them that you would in the best casinos in the world. They are fully equipped with all the luxuries and comforts that you can imagine in a casino. The only difference between these and other USA casino would be their location. While the offshore landbased casinos are immovable, these cruise casinos are casinos all aboard.

A New Gambling Experience On The Banks Of The Mississippi River

The riverboat casinos on the Mississippi River in New Orleans are the best casinos in New Orleans. These casinos offer the best of the traditional casino games such as Slots Games, Blackjack Games, Roulette Games only with a fresher experience. Like any other traditional casino, people can try their luck on slot games and other casino games in one of the 15 riverboat casinos in New Orleans. If you are not feeling prepared to sit on the casino tables, you can always explore the games at plenty of offshore casino sites. Silver Oak casino has the most splendid no deposit offers of $50 free cash + 20 free spins , which is more than enough to try out every possible casino game. Besides, you can even win some real money too.

Amazing Casino Games And Prizes

The riverboat casinos of New Orleans are legal casinos that are the best casinos in New Orleans that offer a variety of best casino games like blackjack, poker, roulette and end number of slot games that come with an awesome amount of jackpot. The jackpots usually come in huge amount as the customers of the casino are usually rich who would otherwise not enter the cruise for anything else. However, the biggest prize comes from nature’s end where you can sip on your glass of drinks while enjoying the fresh air of Mississippi.

Offshore Online Gambling

You cannot play online casino games on Lousiana riverboats because it’s illegal in the state, yet offshore online casinos still accept US players because of the player demand. The online casinos have been declared illegal by the jurisdiction of Louisiana as the authorities did not want the unregulated operators to fool the locals with betting. However, the offshore online casinos have great demand for their variety of casino games and slots but the problem lies with the payment process as most legal payment options and banks do not accept payments from them. The reason why people still want to sign up with online casinos is the lucrative casino bonus that they offer. There are only a handful of safe and reliable options who accept any payment in this regard.

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

American Cruise Lines' Serenade ship in Chattanooga.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

The River Lounge, including plush chairs, coffee tables and a piano in the back.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking cruise ship under a bridge on the Mississippi River.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

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Savannah, GA | Savannah.com

The Georgia Queen and Savannah Riverboat Cruises

Savannah riverboat cruises’: the georgia queen..

It is a 1,000-passenger riverboat that traveled 2,800 miles down the Mississippi River, down and around the shorelines of Florida to call Savannah her home.

The Georgia Queen is a great way to see the city and is one of the most unique social gathering destinations in Savannah, but its impact on local tourism and economic development will be substantial with the added ability to attract large conferences and conventions.”

The Georgia Queen Savannah Riverboat

Built in 1995 as a luxury floating casino for 14 million dollars, the majestic 1800s paddlewheel-style riverboat spent several years traveling the Mississippi River. When gambling legislation changed, allowing land-based casinos to open, the riverboat underwent a four-million-dollar makeover. Today, this spectacular paddlewheel-style riverboat acts as Savannah Riverboat Cruises’ Savannah River Queen’s grand sister ship.

The Georgia Queen measures an impressive 230 feet long, 64 feet wide and towering at 68 feet tall.

She is among the top elite in the country with a capacity of 1,000 passengers, plus a 200-person crew, making her the size of a small cruise ship at 38,000 square feet. The ship’s entertainment spaces include three grand ballrooms with over 15,000 square feet of dining space. It offers more than 5,000 square feet of open-air top deck space with patio seating. This affords more than enough room to accommodate a romantic riverboat wedding on the Savannah River.

The Georgia Queen also boasts a multi-deck, fully equipped gourmet kitchen. It is also equipped with a large service elevator, making traveling between galleys discrete and easy. This onboard kitchen will change the entire dining experience for guests. This will allow for more plated dinner opportunities and flexibility in menu items.

The Georgia Queen

“Experiencing Savannah from our beautiful riverfront is such a unique experience,” Visit Savannah President Joseph Marinelli said.

“Savannah Riverboat’s guests are treated to refreshing breezes, fun entertainment, and some of the best southern cuisine Savannah offers. They can view Georgia’s oldest city as her founders did many years ago when they arrived by river in 1733. Jonathan and his team have been providing unforgettable narrated tours of Savannah’s harbor for 25 years. The Georgia Queen is a game-changer for their business. It will be another valuable asset to the thriving tourism and hospitality offerings of Savannah.”

For more information about Savannah Riverboat Cruises, or to make a reservation on one of their cruises, go to savannahriverboat.com or call (912) 232-6404.

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USS Riverside Tours

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- Enjoy a relaxing, fully narrated cruise, detailing the history of this region and the Colorado River.

- The USS Riverside is the only casino cruiser designed to go under the Laughlin Bridge - taking you up to the Davis Dam!

- For your comfort, the USS Riverside boasts a shaded upper deck & climate-controlled cabin with restrooms for your comfort.

- Beer, wine, mixed drinks, soft drinks and snacks are available for purchase.

- All USS Riverside tours are based upon availability; times subject to change due to weather and water level.

  • Daily Cruise Departure Times:
  • For more information please call the Boat Office at 800-227-3849 EXT. 5770 Boat Office Hours: 9 AM - 4:00 PM Wednesday thru Sunday Closed Monday & Tuesday
  • Daily Tour Pricing:
  • Adults: $15.00 Children: 3 – 12: $7.00 Children - 2 years and under: Free
  • Four cruises Wednesday-Sunday: 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM & 4:30PM
  • Cruise times subject to change due to water levels. Please contact boat office for tour availability.
  • Ten (10) passenger minimum for all USS Riverside cruises
  • Cruises are approximately 1 hour & 20 minutes
  • Purchase tickets at the USS Riverside Boat Office, located on the Riverwalk directly across from the USS Riverside.

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Plan An Event

The USS Riverside is available for Weddings, Corporate Functions, Family Functions, Group Entertainment.

Book Your Event

Please contact Christina Coker USS Riverside Wedding / Event Coordinator for more information. Email: [email protected] Ph: 702.298.2535 Ext: 5696 Toll Free: 800.227.3849

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Phone 800 331-1467

It’s Twilight Time

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2-Day Cruise

Our signature cruise.

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1-Day Cruise

North into the valleys.

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Sightseeing Cruise

1 1/2 hour • leclaire.

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2024 Cruise Schedule

The riverboat twilight.

Since 1985, the Riverboat Twilight has delivered one of the most exceptional cruise experiences in the Midwest. And it’s not just a cruise; it’s a conduit to reconnection, relaxation, and renewal.

Marvel at the majestic Mississippi river while relaxing in style aboard a stunningly replicated Victorian Riverboat. Allow yourself to be pampered by the Twilight’s attentive, informative, and welcoming crew. Delicious meals are prepared on board in the lower galley, while a full bar complete with top shelf liquors provides custom drinks to enhance your experience.

The Riverboat Twilight is family-owned and operated business, with a focus providing entertaining and quality cruises. The 140-passenger vessel has ample indoor, and outdoor seating on all three decks, and wrap-around windows give way to amazing views.

Our 2024 season offers 1-day, 2-day, and sightseeing cruises departing from LeClaire & Dubuque, Iowa.

Where the river runs deep, so do the discoveries.

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Absolutely perfect in all ways!

My Friend and I went on the Riverboat Twilight and it was the most perfect/awesome adventure! From reserving our trip to our final walk to our car after the two day cruise, all was perfect! Staff are amazing, from the Captain to the servers, to the musical entertainers. The food is suburb and generous! Everything is very well organized, from our luggage/hotel in Dubuque/seating for meals, free shuttles in Dubuque, etc! The scenery and info along the way from the captain was wonderful! This was an absolutely perfect two day cruise, and we are going again in Mid October as we loved it so much!!.

The service by all involved was first class all the way!

We were very impressed by the personal service we received by the staff and everyone involved. The trip was very nice from a sightseeing perspective, interesting from a historical perspective and very relaxing overall. Plus the food was plentiful and excellent. We highly recommend this cruise to everyone!

Wonderful relaxing two days....

Extremely enjoyable trip. The cruise itself was delightful as you slowly moved up and down the river enjoying the wildlife and listening to the Captain explain the view and history. Unless you are a very big eater you have to be selective as they feed you FIVE times a day. Not only is the food plentiful but it is also very good. The Grand Resort in Dubuque was a nice stay as we had a view of the river. There was adequate time to explore some of the sights In Dubuque. I think we will do this trip again in the future…….

3 F's; Food, Food, and Fun

Excellent team from the captain to the crew provide a relaxing time..The chefs do an excellent job and there is more great food than you can imagine. This is the most organized and professional staff that we have ever experienced. No detail is overlooked.

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Riverboat Twilight 360° Tours

Pilot house.

Deck 3 Stern

Downtown LeClaire Near Dock

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If you are not vaccinated, we strongly encourage you to do so, however, at this time the Riverboat Twilight does not ask for proof of vaccination. Mask wearing is the choice of the individual. The Twilight offers ample indoor and outdoor seating on all three decks and plenty of fresh air.

We will continue to maintain our increased sanitization efforts of the TWILIGHT and our boarding facilities, and we continue to provide hand sanitizer aboard the boat and employ a strong air purifier that uses UVC lighting that has been proven to destroy viruses and other bacteria.

For the safety of our passengers and crew and to maintain proper cleanliness, we have implemented the following guidelines for parents of children under the age of 14. While onboard the vessel and when making use of our food and beverages services, children must be accompanied by an adult at all times. With your cooperation and understanding, we will be able to continue to offer a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

As an owner, of the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Le Claire, IA and the President of Great Lakes Management Group which manages the hotel’s day to day operations, I wanted to say thank you. The business relationship with the Riverboat Twilight and her passengers is valued and much appreciated. We all know businesses from every industry has been operating in a different environment the last 8 weeks and will encounter new changes in the future.

We continue to monitor the franchise, local, state and federal safety guidelines to insure our guest and staff safety. For example, we anticipate a few changes in the near future which will include the following: a plastic shield / barrier at the front desk check,  revised breakfast offerings without a buffet setting, hand sanitizer located in the lobby and all floors at the elevator landings, continued use of hospital grade products to clean and sanitize the guest rooms, individual sanitizer wipes as an in-room amenity, removal of all products in the rooms that are reusable for example, pens, pads, laundry bags, and throw pillows, these items will be available upon request. We hope to see you soon. Stay safe and healthy!

  Respectfully, Neil Densmore | President glmg | hotels

Treasure Island

Treasure Island Resort & Casino

Spirit of the water.

Spiritof The Water HERO 2400 X1200

SCENIC RIVER CRUISES

Experience a relaxing cruise down the Mississippi River aboard our 100-passenger yacht, Spirit of the Water! Offering brunch, lunch and dinner cruises, you’ll enjoy a gourmet meal and panoramic views of Minnesota’s bluffs. For questions, call 1-800-222-7077 .

240049 SOW Website Mothers Day 2024 Season 022724 v3 2x

MOTHER’S DAY DINNER CRUISE

Sunday, may 12, 5pm-7:30pm, $60.

Make Mother’s Day memorable with salad, mashed potatoes, garlic asparagus, bruschetta chicken, slow-roasted salt-crusted carved prime rib au jus lié and chocolate and lemon cake.

Egg Breakfast 1200 X800

BRUNCH CRUISE

Select days sundays, 11am-1:30pm, $40.

BBQ Brisket Dinner 1200 X800

LUNCH CRUISE

Select days noon-2:30pm, $35.

Midwestern barbecue featuring pulled pork sandwiches, coleslaw, baked beans, mac and cheese, corn O’Brien and assorted cookies. Vegetarian and gluten-free options available. Cash bar available.

NY Strip Dinner 1200 X800

DINNER CRUISE

Select days 6pm-8:30pm, $45.

Treat yourself with the Favorites Buffet, featuring salad, oven-roasted champagne chicken, grilled flank steak with mushroom madeira sauce, roasted potatoes, chef’s choice of vegetable and assorted desserts. Cash bar available.

SOW 800 X800

CRUISE POLICIES

  • General admission tickets only
  • No upstairs or downstairs requests
  • Children under 2 years of age are not allowed
  • In order to guarantee that your group can be seated together, please make sure to make just one reservation for your entire party. If members of your group make separate reservations, the activity provider cannot guarantee that you will be seated together.

Ticketholders should plan to arrive at least 45 minutes prior to departure. At that time, shuttles will begin transporting attendees from the Event Center entrance to Treasure Island Marina. Boarding will begin 30 minutes prior to departure time.

All sales for weekday cruises will close at 8am on the Tuesday prior to the selected cruise and all sales for weekend cruises will close at 8am on the Thursday prior to the selected cruise.

A minimum of 25 tickets must be sold for departure. If this threshold is not met, all ticketholders will be emailed a cancellation notice and automatic refunds will be issued. For special accommodations, please contact [email protected] .

Cutwater Cruise

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

Melinda Crow

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?

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

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?

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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?

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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?

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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?

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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?

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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

THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises

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  • Boat Rentals
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  • Good for Big Groups
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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

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  • 321.441.3030
  • [email protected]
  • 433 N. Palmetto Ave. Sanford, Florida 32771

St. Johns Rivership Co.

See the Real Florida!

Book your reservations today!

Weekly Schedule

Three and four-hour sternwheeler cruises

River Visit Luncheon Cruise : Wednesday, 11am ‐ 2 pm

River Escape Luncheon Cruise : Thursday, 11am ‐ 3pm

“Rockin’ on the River” : Friday: 6:30pm ‐ 9:30 pm

River Visit Luncheon Cruise : Saturday, 11am ‐ 2pm

Saturday Dinner on the River : Saturday, 5:00pm ‐ 8:00pm **NEW TIME IN 2024!!!**

River Visit Luncheon Cruise : Sunday, 12pm ‐ 3pm

Upcoming Special Events

More than a cruise.

Family-owned and operated, the St. Johns Rivership Co. is the latest in a long line of sternwheelers that have been serving and sailing the St. Johns River for centuries.

The Barbara-lee

Barbara-Lee-St. Johns Rivership Co.

Our Services

Corporate events & trainings, weddings & anniversaries, fundraisers.

  • Special Events

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Photo by Reg Garner

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RiverCruise.com

Save up to 50% on River Cruises!

First-Time Visitors

Since 1984, Vacations To Go has helped more than 8 million vacationers save hundreds of millions of dollars on cruises. We can help you find the perfect river cruise at the lowest possible price.

We represent all the major river cruise operators and offer the best discounts and deals on every sailing. Use the search options on the left to find your cruise now.

Our fast and friendly river cruise specialists will make planning and booking easy. Please give us a call and we'll be happy to help!

Alan Fox, Executive Chairman

Now in our 41 st year, Vacations To Go is the largest cruise-selling company in the world. We've built a reputation for discounts, service and professionalism that is second to none.

Price Guarantee We work with every major river cruise company in the world, and you'll find their lowest authorized prices on this site. However, if you ever find a lower price for the same ship, date and stateroom category, before booking, we'll match it.*

Service Guarantee Our cruise counselors are fast and friendly. However, if you are ever dissatisfied with any aspect of our service or our Web site, please click here to tell me about it. I will respond as quickly as possible, and always within 24 hours.

* The lower rate must be advertised on a competitor's website and available for booking at the time you contact us; offer does not apply to group rates.

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IMAGES

  1. The Best Riverboat Casinos In The World

    riverboat cruises with casinos

  2. Mississippi River Boat Casino Cruise

    riverboat cruises with casinos

  3. 7 Riverboat Casinos Worth Visiting

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  4. 5 Top Mississippi Riverboat Casinos Based in Louisiana

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  5. The Boats in Shreveport: Shuttle to Shreveport Riverboat Casinos

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  6. A Glimpse Into the World of Riverboat Casinos

    riverboat cruises with casinos

COMMENTS

  1. The Best Riverboat Casinos In The World

    This Buenos Aires riverboat casino is one the most striking gambling spots in the world. It's more commonly known by its nickname, The Star of Fortune. This casino has some very luxurious bars and restaurants with a wide range of cuisines. With over 150 tables and more than seven hundred games including various slot machines, roulette, and ...

  2. Riverboat Gambling In The USA

    This number might pale in comparison to the number of land casinos in the United States, but riverboat gambling saw a massive boom during the 2010s. In 2018, there were 63 riverboat casinos in operation across the legal states. This spike in growth suggests that riverboat casinos have a distinct appeal, separate from that of land-based casinos.

  3. A Guide To The Most Iconic Riverboat Casinos In The US

    This classic four-story riverboat looks like it has stepped straight out of a photograph from the turn of the 20 th century. When it is lit up at night, it takes your breath away. At the tables, poker is the order of the day. The casino offers Mississippi stud, 3-card poker and Texas Holdem. There are also 800 slot games, while the Fanduel ...

  4. Top 5 Riverboat Casinos Worth Visiting in the US

    2. Casino Queen Marquette (Location: Marquette, Iowa) It might not be as big as some of the riverboat casinos on our list, but the Casino Queen Marquette still offers a memorable and arguably more intimate gambling experience. Situated in Marquette, Iowa, just across the Mississippi from the charming town of Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, it's ...

  5. Riverboat Gambling & Entertainment Along the Mississippi

    Riverboats are the only casinos in some states. By 2018, 63 riverboat casinos were operating across six states. More than a sideline, these gaming houses account for the entire commercial casino operation in the states of Illinois and Missouri. By the end of 2018, gambling revenue from boats totaled $382.5 million in state tax in Illinois and ...

  6. Best Riverboat Casinos on the Mississippi River, New Orleans

    The riverboat casinos on the Mississippi River in New Orleans are the best casinos in New Orleans. These casinos offer the best of the traditional casino games such as Slots Games, Blackjack Games, Roulette Games only with a fresher experience. Like any other traditional casino, people can try their luck on slot games and other casino games in ...

  7. Riverboat Casinos in the US

    Gambling could only take place during a short cruise that lasted several hours. ... Of course, modern riverboat casinos have been popular since the early 1990s. Iowa was the first state to legalize riverboat gambling, with several states bordering the Mississippi river like Mississippi, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, and Louisiana jumping on the ...

  8. Riverboat Gamblers & Casino Cruise : Riverboat Casino Cruises

    Casino Cruise Ships Available. If spending a weekend on a riverboat casino is too much for you, you can try some of Florida daily casino cruises. If you take Sterling Casino Lines cruise, you can leave at 11 am and be back by 18 pm. Sterling Casino Lines cruises take place on a 75,000 square feet gambling area with more than 1,000 slot machines ...

  9. The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

    Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis. Length: Nine days. Price: Starts at $4,299 per person. Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise ...

  10. Betsy Ann Riverboat

    The Betsy Ann Riverboat is an authentic stern wheel paddlewheel riverboat. Take a 2 hour Historical/Ecological Tour, Sunset Cruise, Live Music Cruise or Dinner Cruise on the 150 passenger paddlewheel boat. We have a climate controlled main deck with restrooms and bar and an open air covered upper deck. We offer a full bar with snacks, soft ...

  11. 5 of Louisiana's Top Riverboat Casinos

    Here are the top x riverboat casinos in Louisiana for tourists and locals to check out. 5. Amelia Belle. 500 Lake Palourde Rd, Amelia, LA 70340, USA. Image Credit: hrapply.com. If you were going ...

  12. Tunica Queen Riverboat

    A Great Way to Spend a Few Hours! Jun 2012 • Family. My mother and I took the 1.5hr Sightseeing Cruise on the Tunica Queen Saturday, June 16th. I'd found a Buy-One-Get-One-Free coupon on Ebay that saved us $17.50. So, that was a plus right from the start!

  13. The Georgia Queen and Savannah Riverboat Cruises

    Photo courtesy of Savannah Riverboat Cruises. Built in 1995 as a luxury floating casino for 14 million dollars, the majestic 1800s paddlewheel-style riverboat spent several years traveling the Mississippi River. When gambling legislation changed, allowing land-based casinos to open, the riverboat underwent a four-million-dollar makeover.

  14. USS Riverside Tours

    Daily Cruise Departure Times: For more information please call the Boat Office at 800-227-3849 EXT. 5770 Boat Office Hours: 9 AM - 4:00 PM Wednesday thru Sunday Closed Monday & Tuesday; Daily Tour Pricing: Adults: $15.00 Children: 3 - 12: $7.00 Children - 2 years and under: Free; Four cruises Wednesday-Sunday: 10:30AM, 12:30PM, 2:30PM & 4:30PM

  15. Riverboat Twilight Mississippi River Cruises

    The Riverboat Twilight is family-owned and operated business, with a focus providing entertaining and quality cruises. The 140-passenger vessel has ample indoor, and outdoor seating on all three decks, and wrap-around windows give way to amazing views. Our 2024 season offers 1-day, 2-day, and sightseeing cruises departing from LeClaire ...

  16. Scenic River Cruises

    SCENIC RIVER CRUISES. Experience a relaxing cruise down the Mississippi River aboard our 100-passenger yacht, Spirit of the Water! Offering brunch, lunch and dinner cruises, you'll enjoy a gourmet meal and panoramic views of Minnesota's bluffs. For questions, call 1-800-222-7077. Book Now.

  17. Riverboat Casino

    CC0. 2021. There are many types of riverboat casino cruises, but what is equally applicable for all of them is the necessity to deliver a top gambling experience. Once the base is covered, the riverboats add extra entertainment, fine food, and drinks. Our article will tell you about the top US riverboat casinos and how they spoil their guests.

  18. BB Riverboats: Official Riverboat Cruises

    BB Riverboats is the Official Riverboat Cruise Line of Cincinnati since 1979, offering premier sightseeing, dining, and private event cruises on the scenic Ohio River. Experience Cincinnati like never before aboard one our many themed event and dining cruises - one of Cincinnati's top things to do!'

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

    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.

  20. THE 10 BEST Moscow Boat Rides & Cruises (Updated 2024)

    Explore the scenic and historic attractions of Moscow from the water with the best boat tours and cruises. Enjoy the views of the Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, and the Sparrow Hills on a relaxing or informative boat ride. Or, spice up your trip with some water sports and activities in Moscow. Find out more on Tripadvisor.

  21. Europe river cruises casinos?

    Enter river cruise gambling. A mobile gambling mecca. With so much time to pass, gambling quickly became the most popular way to pass the time and with a lot of wealthy traders plying their wares, the stakes could often get pretty high. Of course, word, like the current, travels fast and it wasn't long before many of the country's ...

  22. Journey Along St. Johns River

    From our homeport on Lake Monroe in Historic Downtown Sanford, the Barbara-Lee cruises the St. Johns River while providing a one-of-a-kind cruise. Learn More. The Barbara-lee. 105. Feet Long ship. 194. Guests Capacity. 1986. Ship Was Built. 1M+ Happy Customers. Our Services.

  23. River Cruises: Best Discounts on All Ships and Departures

    Now in our 41 st year, Vacations To Go is the largest cruise-selling company in the world. We've built a reputation for discounts, service and professionalism that is second to none. Price Guarantee We work with every major river cruise company in the world, and you'll find their lowest authorized prices on this site. However, if you ever find a lower price for the same ship, date and ...

  24. With Active Cruises More Popular Than Ever, Backroads Adds New ...

    Active travel and cruising go great together, and until recently most bike and hike trips have used ...[+] river cruise ships, like this Backroads trip with AmaWaterways. Courtesy of BACKROADS ...