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8 of the World’s Best Casino Cruise Ships Revealed

There is possibly no better pairing for a leisure-seeker than an ocean cruise and a night of casino gaming fun. There are countless cruise ships out there that offer full suites of gambling games for their guests, allowing them to test their card and dice skills at sea in a bid to win impressive cash jackpots. If this sounds like your idea of a good time, check out our list of the world’s 8 most luxurious casino cruise ships below!

Best Casino Cruise Ships

#1: Freedom of the Seas

This luxury Royal Caribbean cruise liner spans over 1,100 feet in length, and offers a myriad of casino options, although its gaming floor is by no means the biggest in the world. Its Vegas-styled Casino Royale section boasts more than 10,000 square feet’s worth of wagering opportunities, not to mention 19 gaming tables offering blackjack and roulette, and more than 300 slots.

#2: Allure of the Seas

This is another Royal Caribbean liner – this time, longer than its sisters Oasis of the Seas and Freedom of the Seas! It boasts its very own exclusive casino that boasts slots, baccarat, blackjack, roulette, and even poker for its passengers to enjoy. Feel free to indulge in a few cocktails at the gaming floor’s built-in cocktail lounge as well!

#3: Norwegian Epic

You can already tell by the name of this ship that you will be in for an epic experience once you have boarded it. The Norwegian Epic spans an impressive 1,081 feet long, and offers its own Epic Casino packed with hundreds of slots and dozens of gaming tables. Along with blackjack, roulette and craps, you can also look forward to on-board Cirque du Soleil shows and many other incredible entertainment options. If you need a change from your favourite online casino NZ games, this is it!

#4: Queen Mary II

This liner might be on the smaller side compared to some of the other entries on this list, but it certainly leaves nothing lacking when it comes to its luxurious on-board casino section. Cunard Line’s flagship vessel is packed with Monte Carlo-style gaming opportunities, including 100 slot machines and a dozen gaming tables. Try your hand at blackjack and three card poker or test your luck in craps, roulette, and various other classic real money games.

#5: Royal Princess

The 1,083 foot long Royal Princess offers a myriad of casino options that will suit slots fans and table game enthusiasts alike. This cruise liner even boasts progressive jackpot games and bingo, making for a social but lucrative gaming experience.

#6: Norwegian Escape

The Norwegian Escape is renowned not only for its exotic Bahamas and Caribbean trips, but also its very own proprietary salon prive. Join Escape Casino for a few rounds of baccarat, craps, blackjack, Let it Ride, three card poker, Pai Gow, Texas Hold’em and more. There are plenty of slots (318) on offer too, as well as live tournaments for those with a competitive streak and a specialized rewards program for regulars.

#7: All Celebrity Cruises Ships

If you have money to spend and want to live it up like a celeb , we recommend that you spend it with Celebrity Cruises! This luxury line offers a wide variety of gambling options, including craps, baccarat, roulette, three card poker, and Texas Hold’em. Their proprietary Fortunes Casinos even offer tournaments for you to take part in.

#8: Oasis of the Sea s

Yet again, Royal Caribbean steals the scene with its casino options. This particular liner boasts an amazing 18,000 square foot gaming floor, complete with over 500 slot machines and 27 tables for your pleasure!

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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?

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?

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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• Learn To Play

The 10 Best Casino Cruises in the World

Are you fond of the idea of gambling it up while cruising your way to exotic destinations? Awesome! Today many cruise ships out there offer onboard fully-fledged casinos and don’t shy away from flaunting their best of both worlds.

While most stately casino liners offer the ambiance, and endless glitter and glitz, others stand out for providing the amenability of a smaller vessel.

Major ships and cruise lines feature casinos that rival inland casinos in size, acuity, and style. Although you — possibly — will feel like you’re walking into a casino in Macau or Vegas, casino liners feature a hoard of benefits that differ from land casinos. 

To start with, the minimum wagers on at games on cruises are exceptionally low. This so much attracts the casual, low-bet gambler, and definitely inspires more occupants to play games.

For example, the minimum stakes range from $1 to $5 for table games, as well, there are lots of penny slots. No wonder you’ll also find non-gamblers trying their luck on sea. 

Wagering in the casino is a typical cruise ship activity. For this reason, almost all casino cruises have table games, slots, and video poker. However, to make it to the list of “best casino cruises” a cruise liner’s casino’s got to offer a little more.

In this article, you’ll find a broad list of the world’s most luxurious casino cruises and what to anticipate as you play your preferred game while sailing the high seas.

Expect to learn about their offers in terms of games, payouts, hours of operation, and any other outstanding features, or service related to casino cruise companies.

While you are free to smash yourself aboard, some fleets don’t permit smoking. Here are the 9 top cruise lines that don’t allow smoking at all; Celebrity, Crystal, Cunard, Oceania, Seven Seas, Silversea, Regent, Seabourn, and Windstar.

Casino Cruise Name: Allure of the Seas

• Casino Operator: Royal Caribbean International
• Length: 7 nights 
• Cost Range: $560 to $1,500  
• Route: Miami, Florida to the Bahamas

Cruise Description 

At 362m long, Allure of the Seas is the second biggest cruiser in the world and carries about 5,400 passengers. The most alluring thing about it is the on-board magnificent casino—the Casino Royale. 

What Reviewers Say

Most voyagers commend the Allure of the Seas Casino for their hard to beat customer service, and incredible entertainment plan.

With an impressive 18,000 ft 2 of gaming floor coupled with French Riviera décor, the casino will make you feel as if you’re in Monte Carlo.   

The Casino Royale prides itself in holding 500 slot machines from Novomatic, Ballys, IGT, Aristocrat, and others. What’s more, there are 27 table games, offering different games for instance baccarat, blackjack, poker, roulette, to name a few. 

Want to access the best casinos online? Well, for the gaming enthusiasts who like comparing online casinos with land casinos , Casino Royale gets you covered. Thanks to its high internet speeds which let you seamlessly access several best casinos online. 

Casino Royale is determined to treat its gamblers to real-life Vegas experience. And the sophisticated décor down the pub where waiters and waitresses dispense cocktail services to clients helps with this. 

Note that the staff to traveller ratio is 1:3, meaning you can anticipate quick services. No matter you want to enjoy your favorite drink right at the table or at the bar.

The fun doesn’t end there since Allure of the Seas hosts several Broadway shows night after night for boarders’ entertainment.

Buy your next cruise on Priceline here

Casino cruise name: norwegian epic.

• Casino Operator: Norwegian Cruises 
• Length: 7 days 
• Cost Range: $479 to $1549  
• Route: Miami, Florida to Barcelona, Spain

Cruise Description

At the time it was built, Norwegian Epic was the third largest cruiser in the world. Voted Best Cruise Ship Entertainment, the Epic is a whole new wave of world-class performance and accommodation.

Want to cross the Atlantic, and dine at some new place night after night? Good, the Epic features up to 22 feasting options.

The Norwegian Epic, for sure, is a dazzle. So much fun, with so many people. Be ready to rub shoulders with fellow voyagers as the most favorite restaurants, shows, and bars are always full.

This cruiser keeps the bar high. The Norwegian Epic is an incredible 1,081 feet long cruiser, with 4,100 guest capacity.

Inside, you’ll find unrivaled fun and entertainment, courtesy of the enjoyable Cirque du Soleil live performance, and grand casino games at the Epic Casino. 

Overall, the casino is filled with a chic atmosphere, with the gaming floor hosting 100s of slots. Moreover, the casino offers table games, including roulette, blackjack, craps, and so on.

Casino Cruise Name: Oasis of the Seas

• Length: 3 nights 
• Cost Range: $408 to $1,123  

Royal Caribbean is famous for cruises with a wow factor. No matter you want the experience of zip lines or ice skating Royal Caribbean got it all.

A genuinely blissful escape filled with sunshine, Bahamian customs, and beaches.

Gambling and luxury go hand in hand in this cruiser. Oasis of the Seas offers the experience of a Las Vegas casino. The fabulous casinos home different machines and tables for everyone. 

Casino Royale, the casino onboard,  covers 1,800 square feet and offers poker, slots, video games, blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and scheduled casino tournaments.

The cruiser is one of the largest cruise ships in the world that offer one of a kind expedition and relaxation. Moreover, it features beautiful bright décors and bars filled with every drink you could want.  

Casino Cruise Name: Queen Mary 2

• Casino Operator: Cunard Line
• Length: 9 nights
• Cost Range: $1,200 to $3,000 
• Route: the United States to the United Kingdom 

Queen Mary 2 embodies the operator’s motto: “Cunard. Anything.” If cruising heightens your senses, and make you go crazy, boarding Queen Mary 2 escalates this sense of intoxication. The churning seas, a bottle of wine a foot away, splashing up the sides of the restaurant’s windows partly spur your survival instincts. 

What Reviewers Say 

Majority of passengers commend it for the level of hygiene, the restaurants, and the evening fun of course!

The cruiser is always clean, with a well-appointed professional staff. Recently, guests rave about the swank cabins, ranging from Single berths to Queens Grill and Princess Grill cabins, which offer exclusive perks like butler service and private dining.

The 2,691-passenger Cunard Line’s man-of-war ship, the Queen Mary 2 oozes luxury. It takes the occupants on an urbane transatlantic crossing; cruise between New York and Southampton.  

The casino onboard the Queen Mary 2 is known as the “Empire Casino,” offering a glitzy casino that rivals those in Monte Carlo.

The elegant Queen Mary 2 furnishes its voyagers with deluxe rooms and an owing library, which holds over 8,000 books. So far, this is the biggest collection that you can find at sea.

However, what gamblers will find extra appealing is the Empire Casino. It offers 99 slot machines and 12 stately gaming tables to play three card poker, Texas hold’em, roulette, blackjack, heads up poker, and more. 

Wagers start from about $1 for table games, which of course are supposed to interest casual gamblers, but high rollers can decide on staking up to $500 per spin.

As for slot fans, you may choose to gamble from as low as $0.05 to $5 on one spin. They’re also a horde of bars and restaurants to further your gaming experience onboard and help to ensure you have an entertaining night.  

Another feature of the Empire Casino are the free games which anybody onboard can try to play. Can’t game? There are croupiers found in the casino to coach beginners how to play games on offer.

The daily casino lessons include comprehensive rules on how to gamble and any other prized information to better your gaming experience. 

Off-the-cuff dress code is acceptable at the casino, but why not bring out your Italian-cut tuxedo? Or you little black dinner dress? Considering Queen Mary 2 is a luxury cruise ship.

Casino Cruise Name: Celebrity Cruises

• Casino Operator: Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.
• Length: 11 nights 
• Cost Range: $300 to $3,000
• Route: Europe, Caribbean, Asia, Alaska, among other popular destinations

Many passengers choose this operator because of the interesting places visited. Others speak well of the high level of their customers’ service. Thanks to their ratio of one crew for two guests set-up.

Regardless of the itinerary you choose, there’s a list of onboard activities to pick up, including trivia contests, dance lessons, spa treatments, and wine workshops. The liners also feature several restaurants, with a variety of dining options.

With 11 cruises, Celebrity Cruises aren’t the largest fleet in the world, but the company knows how to set up a casino cruise. All its new Celebrity class cruise liners — Summit, Millennium, Constellation and Infinity — are equipped with a Fortune Casino.

Table games offered include baccarat, roulette, blackjack, Let It Ride, and 3-card poker. Slots start at $0.01 and comprise video machines and classic reel. Celebrity Cruises boast of offering custom limits and better odds compared to other casino cruises. 

The top out-fitted cruisers for gamblers host about 275 slots. Millennium, Summit, Constellation, and Infinity are equipped with about 190 slot machines, about 12 table games, and an electronic Texas hold’em table.

Celebrity Cruise casinos also pride themselves at running tournaments and promotions.  Depending on your level of play at Fortune Casino, offers can range from $250 off your next voyage to a whole free cruise.

Recently, Celebrity Cruises reviewed their odds to be in line with those offered in prominent Vegas casinos. Odds of 6s and 8s, four times on 5s and 9s, as well as three times on 4s are now available.

The cruiser also has an array of fun activities for children to keep them entertained. While at sea, patrons can attend educational classes, visit the gym, take in a show, chill out by the spa or pool, or enjoy several sports.

Casino Cruise Name: Norwegian Escape

• Casino Operator: Norwegian Cruise Line
• Cost Range: $400 to $1,800 
• Route: The Bahamas and the Caribbean from Miami, Florida

Named #1 in Best Norwegian Cruises, the Norwegian Escape is one of the most rousing cruisers on the oceans. When it comes to fun and entertainment, Escape wins.

With 28 bars and restaurants on the ship, most passengers admit they’ve got to sail twice to explore, possibly, everything.

Definitely an escape from routine on a regular boat. One of the best casino cruises out there. Groups adore their assortment of games and environments. Drinks are delicious!

Norwegian Escape is a state-of-the-art cruise ship, and it’s the biggest from the Norwegian Cruises. With a fleet of 15 cruisers, a total of about 200 gaming tables and 2,800 slot machines, the jumbo Norwegian Cruise Line is a force to reckon. 

Norwegian Escape is the casino aboard, which features an extensive list of table games and slots. The casino also hosts a VIP section for high rollers.

The liners stand out for allowing its patrons to play video poker at the casino bar.

The Norwegian Escape can accommodate 4,266 guests while traveling to the Bahamas and the Caribbean from Miami.

While voyagers enjoy sailing past the clear waters and sandy seashores, there’s a lot of entertainment and fun options, including playing casino games. 

This ultra-modern Escape Casino hordes 318 slot machines in addition to 28 gaming tables offering baccarat, blackjack, roulette, pai gow, Texas hold’em, craps and poker.

Offers at the casino tables range from low to high, implying everyone; even those on a budget can choose from the options. 

Note that the minimum bet for specific table games is slightly higher compared to other cruisers.

For instance, the minimum wager for Let It Ride and blackjack is $5, while $10 is the minimum stake for Ultimate Texas hold’em.

In spite of everything, all casinos onboard Norwegian Cruises offer reward patrons and favour Casinos at Sea Programme.

The good thing, you can redeem your Casinos at Sea card’s points for free play, discounts, or even merchandise.

If you are a high roller, you’ll be thrilled to know the casino has an élite VIP room featuring 3 customizable tables — intended to meet your requirements and preferences. Gamblers can request limits above the $ 5,000 max that’s set on the casino floor.

The internet via satellite on the casino cruise is, more than not, as fast and reliable as your home’s broadband. Meaning, gaming online can equally be pleasurable as it is at the liner’s casino.

The casino also allows smoking inside the venue. Plus, the ship hosts 11 fancy restaurants.

Casino Cruise Name: Princess Casino

• Casino Operator: Princess Cruises
• Length: 12 days 
• Cost Range:  $430 to $6,200 
• Route: Around the world

In 1965, the company started with a single liner, which cruised Mexico. Flash forward, today Princess is one of the best cruise lines in the world. Aboard a Princess cruiser and have fun as you explore the world.

Princess needs no introduction. It’s big, sprawling, and with lots of cool happenings around. Bingo nights are fantastic and the service at the bar is impeccable.

The gaming environment and the luxurious décor make you spend, and possibly win, lol!

Princess Cruises present their casinos as high stakes and world-class. To reinforce this claim, USA Today nominated Princess Cruises as the premium cruise line for gamblers. 

Like most cruise lines, Princess Cruises provide free casino lessons for their guests. Note that guests can too join the Princess Players Club and receive exceptional bonuses depending on frequency of play or amount staked. 

Every Princess runs tournaments, though some feature an invitation-only for the top competitors.

Table games offered are roulette, blackjack, Texas hold’em, craps, 3-card poker, Caribbean Stud, and Let It Ride. Surprising enough, bingo games are accessible daily.

Remember, credit cards aren’t accepted in the liner’s casino. However, you can swap for chips as cash or an onboard account or traveller’s checks. Aside from that, the casino brags about its progressive winnings on lots of its games.

The 1,083-feet-long cruise ship entertains guests all day, every day.  Some of the onboard activities include painting and paddle tennis. And it doesn’t end there.

You can tour the boat and delight in some wine tasting, join games by the pool or drown in the traditional Champagne Waterfall.

While taking still photos at the casino is allowed, cellphones and video recording are prohibited.  You are also not permitted to smoke in the casino or the bar, though guests can smoke while betting at particular slot machines.

Casino Cruise Name: Freedom of the Seas

• Casino Operator: Royal International
• Cost Range: $ 299 to $ 2200
• Route: Southern Caribbean 

 At 160,000 ton, with room to accommodate up to 3,634 guests, Freedom of the Seas is out to make a statement. This ship hosts several shops, sports, and entertainment facilities including the casino (Casino Royale).

What Reviewers Say  

Really urban feel, and lots of fun. Service is topnotch on the cruise, from the Windjammer buffet to housekeeping to main dining room.

Casino Royale is found on the fourth deck and operates soon the cruiser is in international waters. The casino offers Texas hold’em, slots, 3 card poker, roulette, blackjack, Caribbean Stud, and three-card poker.

Gaming classes are offered once the ship starts sailing. Plus, the casino crew are always keen to respond to inquiries if you are trying to pick up a new game.  The cruiser also hordes a 3-level main restaurant, several casual eateries, and 3 speciality restaurants. 

Casino Cruise Name: Azamara Journey 

• Casino Operator: Azamara Club Cruises
• Cost Range: $999 to $2,099 
• Route: Journeys the Western and Eastern Mediterranean as well as South American and Antarctica 

Azamara Journey is a subsidiary enterprise of the RCCL (Royal Caribbean). With 408 staff members on board; the vessel offers a high level of personalization than you can ever imagine . This 690-passenger cruiser attracts voyagers who adore large-ship niceties and exciting onboard programs like culinary demonstrations and wine-tastings.  When onshore, occupants are encouraged to walk around and explore local dishes.

Passengers recommend it for anyone who cares a lot about their safety and service. The tapas bar is a 10/10. Meals are prepared using fresh local ingredients and are enjoyed at the cruise’s restaurant.  

A lot of passengers compliment the various food options and the several exclusive ports of call. Not a large ship by Allure of the Seas standards. But definitely one of the coziest spaces on sea.  

The considerably large poker table is just amazing. Casino Luxe offer slot machines, roulette, 3-card poker, and blackjack. They accept payments by credit card, travellers check, cash (foreign currency and USD), and Key Card.  

Casino Cruise Name: Carnival Vista

• Casino Operator: Carnival Cruise Line
• Length: 7 nights
• Cost Range: $509 to $2,100   
• Route: Western Caribbean

For long, Carnival Cruises have been huge on entertainment and nightlife, and you will find casinos aboard any of their 26 cruisers. A carnival cruise hosts day and night shows, casinos, musical performances, and more.

Most adult passengers like the near-water private balconies, the beach breaks, and the food. Recently, travelers are fascinated with the onboard accommodations, the friendly crew, and kid-friendly games and movies. 

While they’re famed for Caribbean cruises, the fleet also sails to beautiful destinations such as the Bahamas, Mexico, Far East, Europe, and Alaska.

Carnival Vista, is one of the recent additions, accommodates about 4,000 people, and has 22 tables, and 217 machines.

Carnival casinos are famous for slots, with patrons whirling the wheel over 100 times every second across the entire fleet. But what makes gambling on Carnival ships tick is their compensation scheme, called the Carnival Players Club. Offers and promotions are awarded depending on the frequency of travels and games played.

Carnival offers 2 main feasting rooms, Reflections, and Horizons which feature first-rate items from the aboard steakhouse and provide them at an additional fee.

Still, there’s an assortment of dining options. The Lido buffet offers the whole lot from stir-fry to pasta. What’s more, there’s pizza delivery.

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Submit a current cruise offer or active Players Card from any casino and you could be elegible for valuable cruise discounts or even a complimentary sailing for two and free drinks in the casino * . When you set sail with Royal Caribbean, the thrills are always in your favor. From world-class dining and showstopping entertainment to groundbreaking innovation, every ship in our fleet bets max on bold. Take a spin to some of the most incredible destinations on the planet — like our private destination in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay. And hit it big at all your favorite casino games along the way.

* Guests who have sailed with Royal Caribbean since January 2018 do not qualify. For full Casino Royale Offer Match terms & conditions click here .

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With late hours, action-packed casino cruise tournaments, and Lady Luck on your side, experience non-stop action available right on board your cruise and discover why our casino is where you play to win.

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Which Carnival Cruise Ship Has the Best Casino?

By Michael Ferguson

Carnival Cruise Ships offer a wide range of activities and entertainment options, including their casinos. But which Carnival Cruise Ship has the best casino?

The answer depends on your preferences and budget. All Carnival Cruise ships offer a variety of table games and slots, as well as regular tournaments. Some ships have larger casinos than others, while some have an exclusive VIP area with special games and amenities.

If you’re looking for a casino experience that offers a lot of action, then one of the larger ships such as the Carnival Breeze or the Carnival Vista may be your best bet. These ships feature bigger gaming areas with more tables and slots, giving you plenty of options for playing. They also offer specialty tournaments that can take your gaming experience to the next level.

If you’re looking for something more intimate and luxurious, then consider one of the smaller or mid-sized ships such as the Carnival Magic or the Carnival Sunshine. These ships feature smaller casinos with fewer tables and slots, but still provide plenty of action for those who want it. Plus, they often have exclusive VIP lounges with higher stakes games and extra amenities like complimentary drinks or snacks.

So, which Carnival Cruise Ship has the best casino? It really depends on what kind of experience you’re looking for. If you want to be able to play a variety of different games in a lively atmosphere, then go with one of the larger ships such as the Breeze or Vista. If you prefer something more intimate and luxurious, then check out one of their smaller or mid-sized ships like the Magic or Sunshine.

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As the leader in cruise gaming, Casinos At Sea is dedicated to providing guests with only the best in class gaming experience as they travel around the globe. We've designed our casinos with comfort in mind so that you can relax and unwind from your hectic timetable whilst playing your favourite games. Equipped with the latest, greatest and most popular slots, you can bet there is a winning machine waiting for you. For table game players, ante up, double down or handle a hot pair of dice as you make your way to your next destination. Whatever you play, get ready to ride a winning streak!

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The 9 best Bahamas cruises for every type of traveler

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Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with the latest information.

The best Bahamas cru ises take you away from the daily grind, transporting you to theme park-like private islands and beach-lined paradises. Cruise choices include new and jazzed-up ships sailing an array of short and weeklong Bahamas itineraries. Cruising to the Bahamas is so easy you may even be able to go without a passport .

Family-friendly lines, such as Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line and Carnival Cruise Line, offer cruises focused on the Bahamas all year. So do newcomers Virgin Voyages, with its adults-only sailings, and Margaritaville at Sea, offering short two-night hops and longer cruise-and-stay packages. The winter and early spring seasons bring a handful of itineraries on premium lines like Celebrity Cruises and Holland America.

The only cruise lines that don’t regularly offer Bahamas cruises are the luxury lines. But don’t worry, luxe lovers: Many of the ships we included on our list of the best Bahamas cruises offer suites that come with concierge services, private enclaves or special spa privileges. If a luxury cruise to the Bahamas is your goal, look at the top suite options on a mainstream or premium line.

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Whether you’re looking for a quick and cheap getaway or a week at the beach, here are the best Bahamas cruise itineraries to start your search, in order from shortest to longest.

2-night cruises on Margaritaville at Sea Paradise from Palm Beach, Florida

Though cruising is relatively new to the Margaritaville travel and hospitality franchise, cruise line Margaritaville at Sea is essentially a rebranding of the old Bahamas Paradise Cruise Line. Its refurbished ship, Paradise, originally debuted in the 1990s for Costa Cruises.

One Jimmy Buffett-themed makeover later, the ship is a perfect fit for the laid-back vibe of the Bahamas. Grab a drink or a bite to eat from the 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar & Grill, try your luck at the Par-A-Dice Casino and enjoy plenty of entertainment, including the musical production, “Tales from Margaritaville: Jimmy’s Ship Show.” There’s a kids club, a teen club, a spa and two pools stocked with beach balls and inflatable parrots.

The two-night cruise itinerary includes one day in Freeport, where you can shop, hit the casino, enjoy water sports or chill on the beach. The ship offers shore excursions, or you can explore independently. Margaritaville at Sea also offers cruise-and-stay itineraries of either four or six nights (including the two nights onboard the ship). These packages let you choose between two partner hotels in Freeport, where you’ll stay two or four nights on land, then hop back on the ship for your return night at sea.

Margaritaville at Sea Paradise carries around 1,300 passengers in an assortment of inside and ocean-view cabins, all around 176 square feet, which is larger than the average for those categories on most mainstream ships. Ten suites with balconies are also available, with 524 square feet of space.

Who should go? Obviously, Parrotheads are gonna want to try this ship, with all its Jimmy Buffett-inspired themes and decor, but it’s also a good trial run for anyone on the fence about cruising. Pricing makes this a great cruise to enjoy an escape without spending a fortune. We found weekday sailings that begin at $99 per person based on double occupancy for an inside cabin.

Related: Best Bahamas cruise tips for first-timers and repeat visitors alike

3- or 4-night cruises on Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas from Miami

This itinerary may be the best overall short Bahamas cruise. Both the three- and four-night cruises have stops at Nassau and Royal Caribbean ‘s massive private island — Perfect Day at CocoCay . Those two stops combined give cruisers the opportunity to enjoy water sports, spend some time at the beach and experience a bit of Bahamian culture.

Freedom of the Seas has plenty of onboard fun to occupy travelers of all ages on sea days. It’s loaded with top-deck slides and water features, specialty restaurant choices and more entertainment options than you can take in on a short cruise. Carrying around 4,000 cruise guests, Freedom of the Seas is big enough to impress without being overwhelming.

Plus, logistics for cruising out of Miami are simple enough for even first-time cruisers. From flight choices to pre- or post-cruise hotels, it’s a city that caters to tourists, especially the cruising ones.

Who should go? From first-timers to veteran cruisers, anyone looking for a short but fun-filled hop to the Bahamas should give Freedom of the Seas a look. Families looking for a quick escape will find entertainment and activities for toddlers to teens. The ship is also ideal for family reunions, bachelorette parties and birthday cruises. Couples will love the adults-only Solarium with its extra-large hot tubs looking out over the sea.

Related: Bahamas cruise packing list: What to pack for the islands

3- or 4-night cruises on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas from Port Canaveral, Florida

When Royal Caribbean’ s giant Utopia of the Seas debuts in July 2024, it will offer a bevy of short sailings, including three- and four-night sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. The 236,860-ton, 5,669-passenger vessel will be the second-largest cruise ship in the world and offer more exciting amenities than any other cruise ship sailing short itineraries in North America.

Why? The newest, biggest ships in the world typically sail longer cruises. Offering short cruises on its humongous Oasis Class ships is new for Royal Caribbean; sister ship Allure of the Seas will test out the concept before Utopia launches.

Families with kids will definitely go bananas over the choices on board the new ship. The top deck alone will feature three separate pool areas, a surfing simulator, a kiddie splash zone, a basketball court, two rock walls, a miniature golf course and even a zip line.

The ship will also boast an extensive selection of restaurants, bars, lounges and shops. Additionally, there will be an indoor skating rink, a spa and a showroom with Broadway-style shows.

Utopia of the Seas’ inaugural voyage is set for July 22, 2024, and will be a four-night cruise to Nassau and the line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay. The second sailing will be a three-night cruise to the Bahamas that departs on July 26, 2024.

Who should go?  Short sailings on this new ship will appeal to all sorts of cruisers. Historically, new ships are reserved for longer itineraries, so this is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy a snack-size sampling of a brand-new ship without spending the money on a longer sailing.

Families craving a quick getaway where the entire brood is satisfied will not be disappointed. In addition to seemingly endless kid-friendly amenities and top-notch children’s programming, Utopia of the Seas will feature a casino and adults-only spaces.

Related: These 2 cruise lines are building new private destinations in the Bahamas

3- or 4-night cruises on Disney Wish from Port Canaveral, Florida

Disney waited a decade to build its next new ship, but Disney dreamers had their wish granted in 2022. Even better, the new Disney Wish cruises to the Bahamas. Designed to be the perfect complement to a visit to Orlando’s Disney theme parks, these short cruises visit Nassau and Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. The four-night itinerary adds a sea day to enjoy the ship.

Disney Wish is designed to immerse cruisers in the various Disney worlds through technology. An onboard augmented reality game turns the Disney Cruise Line Navigator smartphone app into a virtual spyglass that lets cruisers participate in a fantasy adventure with Disney and Pixar characters. The AquaMouse waterslide combines a splashy tube ride in a two-seater raft with a pre-adventure tale told through screens at the beginning of the ride. Diners at the Worlds of Marvel restaurant take part in an interactive Avengers-themed experience through videos and special effects.

Wish carries 4,000 passengers in cabins and suites designed to simplify cruising with kids. But never fear, adult Disney fans; you’ll also find your spot on board. From the “Star Wars”-themed Hyperspace Lounge to the Quiet Cove adults-only sun deck, Disney manages to cater to grownups as well as kids.

Who should go ? This is obviously the best Bahamas cruise for lovers of all things Disney, including “Star Wars” and Marvel fans.

Related: Best shore excursions for Bahamas cruises

3- or 4-night cruises on Celebrity Reflection from Fort Lauderdale

Beginning in April 2024, Celebrity Cruises will sail three- and four-night voyages round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, year-round.

The 3,046-passenger Celebrity Reflection will offer a consistent rotation of three-night weekend cruises (departing each Friday and returning each Monday morning) and four-night weekday sailings (departing each Monday and returning each Friday morning).

Itineraries will include stops at Key West in Florida and Nassau and Bimini in the Bahamas.

Celebrity appeals mostly to the 40-plus set sans small children. It’s light on the kid-centric attractions (such as waterslides, go-karts and laser tag) that other big-ship lines include. The line offers instead lots of quiet and relaxing pool and lounge areas. (If you do have kids in tow, you can take advantage of the extensive children’s program, Camp at Sea. It provides supervised activities daily for children ages 3-12 in dedicated spaces.)

Celebrity Reflection is the line’s last and largest Solstice Class cruise ship. The Solstice C lass ships feature some of the most stylish outdoor pool decks at sea, with indoor, adults-only pool areas that, notably, are topped with glass panels embedded with solar panels that contribute to the ship’s power grid. You’ll also find large spas, casinos, showrooms and a nice selection of restaurants on board.

This ship also boasts one of the most spectacular suites in the cruising world — the 1,646-square-foot Reflection Suite. It was the first two-bedroom suite on a Celebrity Cruises vessel.

Who should go? This an ideal cruise for older travelers who are new to cruising and want to sample one or frequent cruisers who might prefer a shorter time at sea. Although Celebrity doesn’t draw many families with young children, the shorter Bahamas itineraries are also perfect for multigenerational family groups seeking an affordable cruise that appeals to all ages.

4-night cruises on Virgin Voyages’ Scarlet Lady from Miami

Virgin Voyages aimed to be a disrupter in the cruise market from the beginning — creating a product designed to please even those who claim they would never set foot on a cruise ship. Yet the itinerary for this four-night Bahamas cruise on Scarlet Lady is fairly ordinary. Ports of call include Key West and a private beach club on the Bahamian island of Bimini.

It’s the ship itself that sets this cruise apart from the pack. You’ll find unique cabins (with balcony hammocks), brash red livery and one-of-a-kind onboard activities, such as tattoo parlors, drag shows and ‘80s-themed fitness classes, to keep its 2,700 sailors (as Virgin calls its passengers) entertained.

Who should go ? This is the best Bahamas cruise for the non-cruiser who is either young at heart or young and eager to party aboard this glitzy ship. If you’re easily offended by loud music, round-the-clock partying or sexual innuendo, this is not your Bahamas cruise.

4-day cruises on Norwegian Jade from Miami

Norwegian Cruise Line offers four-day sailings from Miami aboard Norwegian Jade. Ports of call include Key West and Great Stirrup Cay, the line’s private island.

Port diversions consist of touring the Key West Shipwreck Treasures Museum and the Key West Aquarium, shopping along Nassau’s Bay Street and exploring the white-sand beaches and pristine waters on Great Stirrup Cay.

The 2,402-passenger vessel is part of the line’s Jewel class of ships. Though the ship launched in 2006, it received a substantial refurbishment in 2017 that included a cabin remodel, new and expanded dining and a design overhaul.

Norwegian Jewel might not have the extensive top-deck attractions of newer ships, like Norwegian Prima, or as many restaurants and bars. However, passengers will find plenty to occupy their time onboard with scheduled activities, a casino, spa and pool areas.

Who should go? Families, couples and friend groups will appreciate the unstructured nature of a Norwegian cruise. The line’s “freestyle cruising” mantra — cruising without rigid dining schedules, dress codes and formal nights — is perfectly suited for short sailings. With a wide range of eateries and no assigned seating times, passengers have lots of flexibility for their limited time at sea.

Related: Best time to cruise to the Bahamas

5-night cruises on Carnival Sunshine from South Carolina

I am a huge lover of five-night sailings. They are long enough to scratch the cruise itch and short enough to account for travel time to and from the port without adding any extra vacation days. Plus, the slightly longer itineraries are less popular with hard partiers who can be disruptive on shorter Bahamas cruises.

Carnival Cruise Line offers 10 different five-night sailings from Charleston, South Carolina, aboard the 3,002-passenger Carnival Sunshine. It’s currently Carnival’s oldest ship (it debuted in 1996 under the name Carnival Destiny). However, in 2013, the line gave it a $200 million bow-to-stern glow-up and renamed it Carnival Sunshine. The overhaul produced a new top-deck WaterWorks water park, a comedy club and several bars, lounges and restaurants.

Depending on which itinerary you choose, you can chill out on the beaches of Bimini, shop Nassau’s iconic straw market or go horseback riding by the shore of Carnival’s private island, Half Moon Cay. Consider a pre- or post-cruise stay in Charleston to take in the city’s historic landmarks, epic dining and charming cobblestone streets.

Who should go? These cruises are the best Bahamas sailings for those who prefer the intimacy of an older ship and don’t care about flashy amenities and onboard attractions on newer vessels. Plus, they’re ideal for travelers who live north of Florida and are looking for a more convenient drive-to departure port.

8-night cruises on Carnival Venezia from New York City

The 4,090-passenger Carnival Venezia is a bit of an outlier in Carnival Cruise Line’s fleet. Originally built for Italy-based Costa Cruises and launched in 2019, it joined the Carnival family in May 2023. (Carnival Corporation is the parent company of both Costa and Carnival.)

The ship was renovated to add many of Carnival’s signature venues. However, many of its Costa-aligned, Italian-themed designs remain, including a real gondola “sailing” down the middle of its main dining room and a pool deck built to look like a Venetian boulevard.

Guests might feel like they’ve been whisked away to Italy thanks to regional touches like the handmade Italian gelato at JavaBlue Cafe and the Italian liqueur-infused concoctions found at many bars.

Two eight-night voyages out of New York City include stops at Freeport, Nassau and Half Moon Cay.

Who should go? This Bahamas cruise is ideal for anyone looking for a different Carnival experience during a weeklong cruise. It’s almost like traveling to Italy and the Bahamas in one trip.

Bottom line

The best Bahamas cruises offer something cruisers can’t quite get enough of — whether it’s beach time or party time. While short sailings are still the most popular Bahamas itineraries, you can find options for almost every cruising style. The key is identifying the cruise that fits your style, preferred activities and vacation budget.

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
• 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
• 15 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

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The Best Mississippi River Cruises to Discover America's Heartland

By Jackie Sheckler Finch

The luxury ships and historic tours are nice, yes. But the real star of Mississippi River cruises has always been the river. There’s nothing quite so Americana as getting to know the many personalities of this 2,350-mile stretch, flowing from northern Minnesota’s Lake Itasca through 10 states until it reaches Louisiana , where the Mississippi River Delta gives way to the Gulf of Mexico.

The slow, meandering journeys of Mississippi River cruises have long proven an ideal way to discover the distinct stories of America’s heartland. In the words of Mark Twain (which no Mississippi River story would be complete without), the towns and cities located on the mighty river's shores are “cheering to the spirit” and “reposeful as a dreamland,” with “nothing to hang a fret or a worry upon.”

The challenge modern travelers now face is when, where, and how to go about this iconic American voyage . Below, see our answers to these frequently asked questions, plus our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024.

Which cruise lines do Mississippi River cruises?

After American Queen Voyages shut down in February, only two Mississippi River cruise lines currently remain in operation.

Celebrating its 50th anniversary, American Cruise Lines (ACL) is American-built and remains family-owned and American-crewed. ACL offers a Mississippi River fleet of three luxurious 180-passenger modern riverboats– American Melody , American Symphony , and American Serenade —plus two classic paddlewheel ships, the 180-passenger American Splendor and the 150-passenger American Heritage.

The new kid on the Mississippi is the Viking Mississippi, a 386-passenger, five-deck vessel that first set sail in September 2022. The cutting-edge cruise is Viking’s first US-built ship, adding to their fleet of more than 90 ocean, river, and expedition vessels navigating the world’s seven continents.

What is the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise?

For an 8- or 9-day cruise, the average cost of a Mississippi River cruise is around $4,000 per person in a stateroom. Although prices might seem high initially, many of these cruises include extras that aren’t always complimentary on ocean cruises such as free WiFi, at least one free shore excursion in every port, paid port taxes and fees, and a pre-cruise hotel stay. Viking offers complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner. Meanwhile, American Cruise Lines offers complimentary beer, wine, cocktails, and soft drinks. Gratuities are also included in American Cruise Lines fares.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

Spring (late March through mid-June) and autumn (September through November) are the best times of year to go on a river cruise in the US. Spring blossoms add a colorful touch to the shoreline, and you can never go wrong with autumn foliage. The temperatures are mild, if not pleasantly cool, and passengers are eager to welcome a new spring travel season—or to enjoy one last autumn river adventure before winter arrives.

What month is best for a Mississippi River cruise?

If we had to pick just one, September is the best month for a Mississippi River cruise. The weather is usually mild with less likelihood of rain, and autumn colors are beginning to paint the shoreline. Keep in mind, however, that the Mississippi is the fourth largest river in the world—so temperatures any time of year are not going to be the same in warmer Louisiana as they are in cooler Minnesota.

Below, see our favorite Mississippi River cruises to book in 2024, featuring stops in iconic American cities like Nashville , Memphis , and New Orleans .

22-day Mississippi River Odyssey: New Orleans to Red Wing, Minnesota

Enjoy the charms of America’s great river on a journey aboard the Viking Mississippi from New Orleans to Red Wing, departing September 20. Custom built to sail American waters, the vessel features river-facing staterooms with either French or step-out balconies.

Stops include Baton Rouge and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Rosedale in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Paducah in Kentucky; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Burlington, Quad Cities, and Dubuque in Iowa; La Crosse in Wisconsin; and ending in Red Wing, Minnesota.

With so many fascinating shore excursions to choose from, it’s well worth taking time to tour the St. Louis Arch . Opened in 1965, the monument to America’s westward expansion is far more than just a stunning photo by the riverside. Venture underground between the arch legs for a museum. Climb aboard a tram to be transported 630 feet up to the top of America’s tallest monument for some stunning views.

12-day Heart of the Delta: Memphis to New Orleans

The 386-guest Viking Mississippi spans five decks, making it one of the largest passenger vessels on the Mississippi. Inaugurated in 2022, the ship features a modern Scandinavian design with an infinity pool and a two-story Explorers’ Lounge observation area similar to its ocean ships. Directly in front of the Explorer’s Lounge is an expanded outdoor seating area known as The Bow. Three restaurants serve both Southern regional cuisine and international favorites.

The cruise starts in Memphis on November 14 and includes stops in Rosedale, Greenville, Vicksburg, and Natchez in Mississippi as well as St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Darrow in Louisiana, ending in New Orleans. The “Mississippi Sings the Blues” shore excursion visits iconic sites along the Mississippi Blues Trail such as historic Dockery Farms, considered the “birthplace of the blues.”

The tour stops in Clarksdale, the fabled “Crossroads” where legend says blues great Robert Johnson reputedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his guitar prowess. Stops at the GRAMMY Museum Mississippi and the Delta Blues Museum completes this perfect trip for music lovers.

9-day Music Cities Cruise: Nashville to Memphis

Music is the main focus of this cruise, which begins in Nashville on July 9 with an unforgettable visit to the legendary Grand Ole Opry and ends in Memphis, where passengers will enjoy live music on Beale Street and a tour of Elvis Presley’s Graceland . On board the American Splendor, passengers will enjoy spacious cabins and popular rocking chairs. First inaugurated in 2016 and fully redecorated in 2022, this ship offers the nostalgia of a classic paddlewheeler along with the comfort of modern amenities.

While in Nashville, explore the Johnny Cash Museum, then walk upstairs to The Patsy Cline Museum. Nightly entertainment spotlights the musical heritage of this region as the world’s newest paddlewheeler journeys along the river. The itinerary also includes Clarksville and Dover in Tennessee plus Paducah in Kentucky. In Paducah, stroll along the riverfront with more than 50 life-sized panoramic murals depicting Paducah’s past. Stop by Paducah’s National Quilt Museum, the world’s largest museum devoted to quilt and fiber art.

23-day Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Sail 1,393 miles through 10 states on a comprehensive exploration of the mighty Mississippi on the new American Serenade . Inaugurated in 2023, the 91-cabin American Serenade won Best New River Cruise Ship of the Year 2023 by Cruise Critic , the first time an American ship has received this prestigious award.

“With extra-large all-balcony staterooms and suites, trendy interior décor, an innovative hydraulic bow and retractable ramp, and one of the most gorgeous sun decks we’ve seen on a river-going ship, American Serenade sets the bar for domestic US river cruising high,” the award notes.

The epic itinerary beginning July 18, 2024 includes 22 ports of call including Oak Alley, Houmas House, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville in Louisiana; Natchez, Vicksburg, Greenville, and Tunica in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; Cape Girardeau, St. Louis, and Hannibal in Missouri; Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa; and Winona, Red Wing, and Saint Paul in Minnesota.

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Steph Koyfman

Emily Pennington

12-day Mississippi River Gateway Cruise: New Orleans to St. Louis

From the French Quarter in New Orleans to the towering Gateway Arch in St. Louis , this American Heritage cruise lives up to its name. Inaugurated in 2015 and totally redecorated in 2022, the 84-cabin American Heritage is the perfect vessel for this interesting itinerary, its design reminiscent of the days when steamboat paddlewheelers plied the Mississippi in the 1800s.

The 12-day voyage departs from New Orleans on July 2. Ports of call along the way include Baton Rouge in Louisiana; Natchez and Vicksburg in Mississippi; Memphis in Tennessee; and Paducah in Kentucky . An onboard expert shares tales of the importance of steam-driven paddlewheels in establishing riverfront communities along the great Mississippi River.

Step ashore in Natchez and enjoy a cold drink at the Under-the-Hill-Saloon, once one of the rowdiest establishments on the Mississippi River in the 1800s. Legend says that Mark Twain stopped here when he was just another riverman named Samuel Clemens.

9-day Lower Mississippi River Cruise: Memphis to New Orleans

This nine-day American Melody cruise departs Memphis on September 8 and features eight ports of call including Vicksburg and Natchez in Mississippi, and St. Francisville, Baton Rouge, and Houmas House in Louisiana. At Vicksburg Military Park, learn how the 101st Airborne Division got its “Screaming Eagles” nickname, plus the tale of its famous soldier, a young guitar player named Jimi Hendrix. At Houmas House, see the bedroom where Bette Davis stayed to film the 1964 movie Hush, Hush, Sweet Charlotte . Joan Crawford was the intended co-star but Bette and Joan feuded so Joan quit and Olivia de Havilland replaced her.

Launched in 2021, the five-deck American Melody has 91 staterooms, all with private balconies and full-length sliding glass doors. The ship has several spacious lounges, a fitness center, large dining room, café for casual dining, sun deck, library, and an impressive four-story glass atrium in the center of the ship. The ship’s unusual bow opens and lowers a platform for passengers to easily walk ashore.

9-day Upper Mississippi River Cruise: St. Louis to St. Paul

Board the American Symphony cruise ship to visit Mark Twain’s hometown and experience the real-life inspiration behind Life on the Mississippi, the classic memoir chronicling the author's days on the river as a steamboat pilot.

The 91-cabin American Symphony, recently inaugurated in 2022, has 100% private balcony accommodations and a unique bow that opens with a retractable gangway that can be extended for landings virtually anywhere. The ship also features lounges soaring 40 feet above the water with triple the glass of other riverboats for spectacular views. Comfy deck chairs welcome passengers to enjoy the undeveloped countryside, picturesque islands, and fascinating dams and navigation locks.

Departing September 27, this itinerary features seven ports of call including Muscatine and Dubuque in Iowa, and Winona and Red Wing in Minnesota. In Hannibal, visit the actual home—with a whitewashed Tom Sawyer fence—where Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) grew up. In Dubuque, see the 1989 “Field of Dreams” movie site known for the famous quote, “If you build it, they will come.”

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• Nationwide Travel Insurance
• AXA Assistance USA
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance
• World Nomads Travel Insurance

Cruise Travel Insurance Tips

• Why You Should Trust Us

Best Cruise Insurance Companies of April 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

A cruise vacation can take much of the stress out of planning a vacation. With a pre-set itinerary on the high seas, you don't have to worry about how you're getting to your destination and what you're going to do there. However, an unexpected emergency can take the wind out of your sails and money out of your travel budget. So you'll want to ensure you have the best travel insurance coverage that won't leave you high and dry in an emergency.

Best Cruise Insurance Companies

• Nationwide Travel Insurance : Best Overall
• AXA Assistance USA : Best for Affordability
• Seven Corners Travel Insurance : Best for Seniors
• HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance : Best for Expensive Trips
• World Nomads Travel Insurance : Best for Exotic Locations

Compare the Top Cruise Insurance Offers

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of trip costs (for cruises) or up to $30,000 (for single-trip plans)
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three cruise-specific plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Annual travel insurance plans available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Strong trip cancellation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for any reason coverage available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR insurance not available with every single plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Medical coverage is lower than what some competitors offer

Nationwide Travel Insurance offers many of the standard benefits you might see with a travel insurance policy. This can include things like trip cancellation coverage, so you can recover pre-paid costs or trip interruption in the event your vacation is interrupted by an unexpected event. There's also baggage delay coverage and medical coverage.

• Cancel for any reason coverage available

• Trip cancellation coverage of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous medical evacuation coverage
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Up to $1,500 per person coverage for missed connections on cruises and tours
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Covers loss of ski, sports and golf equipment
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Generous baggage delay, loss and trip delay coverage ceilings per person
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage only available for most expensive Platinum plan
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. CFAR coverage ceiling only reaches $50,000 maximum despite going up to 75%

AXA Assistance USA keeps travel insurance simple with gold, silver, and platinum plans. Emergency medical and CFAR are a couple of the options you can expect. Read on to learn more about AXA.

• Silver, Gold, and Platinum plans available
• Trip interruption coverage of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $250,000

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Diverse coverage options such as CFAR, optional sports equipment coverage, etc.
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Available in all 50 states
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Prices are higher than many competitors
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Reviews around claims processing are mixed
• Trip cancellation insurance of up to 100% of the trip cost
• Trip interruption insurance of up to 150% of the trip cost
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance available

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Three plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Reasonable premiums
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. CFAR coverage available with some plans
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. High medical emergency and evacuation coverage
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Special coverages for pets, sports equipment, etc not available
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Limited reviews with complaints about claims not being paid
• Trip cancellation of up to $5,000 with the Economy plan and up to $50,000 with the Preferred plan
• Cancel for any reason insurance and missed connection insurance available with the Preferred plan
• Baggage delay insurance starting after 24 or 12 hours depending on the plan

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Coverage for 200+ activities like skiing, surfing, and rock climbing
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Only two plans to choose from, making it simple to find the right option
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. You can purchase coverage even after your trip has started
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. If your trip costs more than $10,000, you may want to choose other insurance because trip protection is capped at up to $10,000 (for the Explorer plan)
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Doesn't offer coverage for travelers older than 70
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. No Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) option
• Coverage for 150+ activities and sports
• 2 plans: Standard and Explorer
• Trip protection for up to $10,000
• Emergency medical insurance of up to $100,000
• Emergency evacuation coverage for up to $500,000
• Coverage to protect your items (up to $3,000)

Cruise Insurance Reviews

Best cruise insurance overall: nationwide travel insurance.

Nationwide Travel Insurance  is a long-standing and reputable brand within the insurance marketplace that offers cruise insurance plans with solid coverage and reasonable rates.

It has three cruise insurance options: Universal, Choice, and Luxury. The Nationwide Choice plan, for example, offers $100,000 in emergency medical coverage and $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage.

The right plan for you depends on your budget and coverage needs. But each plan offers cruise-specific coverages like ship-based mechanical breakdowns, coverage for missed prepaid excursions if your cruise itinerary changes, and covered service disruptions aboard the cruise ship.

Read our Nationwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Affordability: AXA Travel Insurance

AXA Assistance USA  offers three comprehensive coverage plans: Gold, Silver, and Platinum. Each of these plans offers coverage for issues like missed flights, medical emergencies, lost luggage, and more.

The highest-tier Platinum plan provides $250,000 in medical emergency coverage and $1 million in medical evacuation coverage. The baggage loss coverage is $3,000 per person, and their missed connection coverage is $1,500 per person for cruises and tours.

In addition, travelers can take advantage of AXA's concierge service, which provides an extensive network of international service providers. They'll be able to assist you with things like restaurant reservations and referrals, golf course information, and more. This service could come in handy if you're stopping at a variety of unfamiliar destinations during your cruise.

The coverage limits on AXA's policies are on the higher end compared to other providers. And you can buy coverage for a little as 4% of your trip cost depending on your age, travel destination, and state of residence.

Read our AXA Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Seniors: Seven Corners Travel Insurance

Seven Corners Travel Insurance lets cruisers enjoy traveling in their golden years with the knowledge they're covered in the event of an accident or emergency. While other providers do offer coverage to those 80+ years old, Seven Corners is known for its affordable premiums while offering above-average medical expenses and medical evacuation coverage limits — two areas of travel insurance coverage that are even more important as we get older.

Seven Corners also offers the option of a preexisting conditions waiver and CFAR insurance at an additional cost, plus "Trip Interruption for Any Reason" coverage, which you won't find on many policies.

You can choose between the Trip Protection Basic or Trip Protection Choice plans, with the higher-tier Choice plan costing more but providing more coverage.

Read our Seven Corners Travel Insurance review here. 

Best Cruise Insurance for Expensive Trips: HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance

HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance  offers three levels of trip protection: TripProtector Economy, Classic, and Preferred. The higher the tier, the more coverage you'll get for things like baggage delays, trip delays & cancellations, and medical expenses. But their premiums remain reasonable even at the highest tier of coverage.

Not only does the HTH Worldwide Trip Protector Preferred plan offer higher-than-average medical emergency and evacuation coverage limits ($500,000 and $1 million, respectively), but you'll also get a baggage loss coverage limit of $2,000 per person and coverage for trip interruption of up to 200% of the trip cost. You also have the option to add CFAR coverage for an additional cost.

Read our HTH Worldwide Travel Insurance review here.

Best Cruise Insurance for Exotic Locations: World Nomads Travel Insurance

World Nomads Travel Insurance  has been a top choice for comprehensive travel insurance for many years now. And it's a great option when it comes to cruise coverage, too.

Even the most basic Standard Plan comes with $100,000 in medical emergency coverage and $300,000 in emergency evacuation coverage. And you'll get higher coverage limits with their Premium Plan. Plus, unlike many other providers, World Nomads trip cancellation and emergency medical coverage include COVID-19-related issues.

What sets World Nomads apart from many other insurance companies is that its policies cover 200+ adventure sports. This can be important for adventurous cruisers who plan to take part in activities like jet skiing, scuba diving, or parasailing during their cruise.

Read our World Nomads Travel Insurance review here.

Introduction to Cruise Insurance

Cruise insurance may offer unique coverage like missed port of call and medical evacuation coverage. You might not need the flight protections of a regular travel insurance plan if you're catching a cruise at a port near you, but medical and cancel for any reason coverage could be critical.

Understanding the Basics of Cruise Insurance

At its core, cruise insurance is your financial lifeboat, designed to protect you from unforeseen events that could disrupt your sea voyage. Whether it's a sudden illness, adverse weather, or other unexpected occurrences, having the right insurance can make a world of difference.

Why Cruise Insurance is Important

Picture this: You're all set for your dream cruise, but a sudden family emergency means you can't set sail. Or worse, you fall ill in the middle of the ocean. Without cruise insurance, you're not just missing out on an adventure, but also facing potentially huge financial losses. That's why securing cruise insurance isn't just recommended; it's a crucial part of your cruise planning.

Types of Cruise Insurance Coverage

Cruise insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all life jacket. There are various types of coverage, each tailored to protect different aspects of your cruise experience.

Trip Cancellation and Interruption Coverage

This coverage is like your safety net, catching you financially if you need to cancel your trip last minute or cut it short due to emergencies, be it due to personal, health-related, or even certain work conflicts.

Medical Coverage

Being on a cruise shouldn't mean being adrift from medical care. Medical coverage ensures that if you fall ill or get injured, your medical expenses won't sink your finances.

Emergency Evacuation Coverage

In the rare case that you need to be evacuated from the ship due to a medical emergency or severe weather, this coverage ensures you're not left adrift in a sea of expenses.

Baggage and Personal Effects Coverage

Imagine reaching your dream destination only to find your luggage lost at sea. This coverage ensures that lost, stolen, or damaged baggage doesn't dampen your cruise experience.

Buying Cruise Insurance

Securing the best cruise insurance isn't just about finding the best price; it's about ensuring it covers all your potential needs.

When to Purchase Cruise Insurance

Timing is everything. Purchasing your insurance soon after booking your cruise can often provide additional benefits and ensure you're covered for any early surprises. As you get closer to your trip your coverage options may get more expensive, and certain providers may not be able to offer you coverage.

How to Find the Best Deals on Cruise Insurance

Keep a lookout for deals, but remember, the cheapest option isn't always the best. Balance cost with coverage, and ensure you're getting the protection you need at a price that doesn't rock your financial boat. A travel insurance comparison site like SquareMouth is a good place to compare multiple quotes from all of the major carriers at once.

How to Pick The Best Cruise Insurance for You

When buying travel insurance for a cruise, consider the additional risks that are specific to cruising. These include hurricanes and other weather-related concerns, strict cancellation terms, high pre-paid costs of a cruise, and the distance to emergency medical assistance.

To find the policy that's right for you, it's best to compare several different cruise insurance policies based on the pricing and coverage they provide. Remember too that all reputable insurance providers will offer a "free-look period." This allows you to return the policy you've purchased for any reason, within a specific time period, for a full refund.

The most important coverages to look for in cruise insurance are:

• Medical coverage — This coverage will pay for medical bills outside the US. But because treatment can be more expensive while onboard, make sure your policy offers sufficient coverage ($100,000+).
• Medical evacuation coverage — This coverage will transport you to the nearest hospital or even back home if you become sick or injured during your journey. But an evacuation from sea will be more expensive than one from land. So you'll want to make sure your coverage has sufficiently high limits ($250,000+).
• Missed connection (missed port of call) coverage — This type of coverage will help you catch up to your itinerary if you miss your port of call for a covered reason, like a delayed flight on the way to the airport.
• Coverage for hurricane warnings — With this type of coverage, you don't actually need to be affected by the hurricane. You can cancel and be reimbursed for your trip if the NOAA issues a hurricane warning. If you're cruising anywhere during (or on the tail ends) of hurricane season, this can come in handy. Just note: You can't buy travel insurance to cover a weather event once a storm or hurricane has been named.
• Cancel for any reason (CFAR) — This is the most comprehensive coverage you can get, as it allows cancellations and reimbursement for pre-paid expenses for any reason. This can be a wise add-on for cruise coverage given the often higher prepaid expenses associated with cruising. See our guide to the best CFAR travel insurance options to learn more.
• Preexisting conditions — This coverage ensures that no known health conditions are excluded from coverage. Obtaining a preexisting condition waiver usually requires purchasing your travel insurance soon after booking your trip.
• Personal possessions insurance — Because of the events and fancy dinners cruise ships hold, you might take more valuable clothing or jewelry with you on a cruise. This type of coverage will insure your belongings against loss or theft while cruising.
• Baggage loss and delay — This coverage will reimburse you up to a specified amount for essentials if your bags are delayed or if your bags get lost en route.

As a rule of thumb, you can expect to pay between 5% and 10% of your prepaid, nonrefundable trip expenses for cruise insurance coverage. The price will vary depending on factors like your age, your travel destination, and whether you require additional coverage.

If you're booking a cruise, we recommend purchasing travel insurance when you make your first trip payment. That could be for the cruise itself or an expense like airfare to get you to your cruising destination. This way, if you have to cancel your trip, you'll have the most extended coverage period possible.

You can buy your own cruise insurance that isn't offered directly through the cruise line operator. In fact, this could be a better option if you want coverage for your travel to the cruise's departure point, not just for the cruise itself.

The difference between traditional travel insurance and cruise insurance is that cruise insurance offers more specialized coverage, for situations such as missing a departure port and more coverage for medical evacuations, since it's more expensive to evacuate someone at sea than on land. 

Most cruise insurance includes coverage for missing a departure port, so you should be able to claim for a missed port. Just make sure you check the details of your policy before you file a claim, and before you travel so you know what compensation you're entitled to.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Chose the Best Cruise Travel Insurance

When comparing cruise travel insurance providers, we evaluated them based on the following criteria to come up with our list of top picks:

Customer Satisfaction

We look at ratings from JD Power and other industry giants to see where a company ranks in customer satisfaction. We also look at customer review sites like Trustpilot and SquareMouth.

Policy Types

We look at policy types and offerings, from standard travel protections to adventure sports coverage. We look at the amount of insurance offered

Average Premiums

We compare average premiums per trip. Some companies also offer annual plans, and we compare policies accordingly.

Claims Paid

How frequently do companies pay claims easily and quickly? We check customer reviews and other resources to see which companies honor policies most effectively.

We look at the company's overall behavior. Is it operating ethically? Companies can earn additional points for such behaviors.

You can read more about how Business Insider rates insurance here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

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