Florida has a very particular relationship with gambling. While land-based casinos are outlawed, cruise ships that operate on open water are considered international entities once they leave port.
Best Free Slot Machine Games to Play Online for FunThis technicality means you can enjoy slots, roulette, blackjack, and poker just off the coast. It’s definitely one of the , trust me.
If you are looking for an unforgettable experience in the Sunshine State, I highly recommend taking a . These floating casinos offer breathtaking views of the ocean while you try your luck at various games.
There are plenty of casino boats operating just off the shore of Miami too. In today’s review, I wanted to take a closer look at some of the best Miami casino boats and let you know what they have to offer. Let’s get started!
Are Miami Casino Boats Worth It?
Yes, Miami casino boats are worth it if you want to gamble in Florida as land-based casinos are illegal in the state. Most casino boats depart from Port of Miami or Nearshore Brothers Marina, offering breathtaking views of Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. They feature a variety of slot machines, table games, live entertainment, dining options, and more. You can also enjoy alcoholic beverages at the bar while playing your favorite games. The dress code is usually smart casual, and most boats offer air conditioning for your comfort. If you’re looking for a unique gaming experience, casino boats in Miami are definitely worth trying.
Best Miami Casino Boats
There were several Miami casino boats during the ‘80s and ‘90s, but the industry took a hit following the 1995 passage of a Florida constitutional amendment that banned “lock and key” Gambling Cruise Ship operations. As mentioned earlier, these cruise ships that operate on open water are considered international entities once they leave port. This technicality allows players to enjoy casino games legally.
casinos near huntsville alabamaToday, two major casino boats operate off the shores of Miami, and both of them offer a unique experience. Victory Casino Cruises and Island Princess Casino Royale used to compete against each other in the past, but now they have joined forces under the banner of Islands of Fun.
So, there is not just one best casino boat in Miami but two awesome ones – Victory 1 and Victory 2. Both of these casino boats ply their trade near the warm waters of Biscayne National Park and provide patrons with four to five hours of non-stop fun and excitement.
Islands of Fun Casino is the world’s largest casino cruise company and operates three vessels – two in Miami and one in Fort Lauderdale. Their cruise ships offer an amazing experience for all sorts of gamblers, including newbies and seasoned pros alike.
Let’s learn more about each casino boat in detail to help you decide which one suits your needs the best.
Victory 1
Victory 1 is one of the two casino boats operated by Islands of Fun near the warm waters of Biscayne National Park. The ship measures around 300 feet in length and can accommodate up to 450 daily passengers.
The casino boat sails twice a day – first at 12:30 pm and then at 7:30 pm. During the three-hour journey, you can play all your favorite casino games while enjoying panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.
Gaming Aboard the Victory 1 Casino Boat
This Miami casino boat boasts more than 300 of the latest slot machines, including video, progressive, and traditional machines. There are numerous denominations to choose from, starting as low as $0.01. High rollers can enjoy hot drops daily promotions and have the chance to win jackpots every hour.
If table games are your thing, you will be happy to find four blackjack tables, three Texas Hold ’em poker tables, one center ramp roulette table, and one Caribbean stud poker table aboard.
I played a few rounds at each table during my visit, and the experience was pretty good. The dealers were friendly and helped me understand the rules better. However, do note only certain areas of the gaming area are air-conditioned, so things can get a bit stuffy when the weather is bad.
Also, there is no sports betting or keno available right now, but islands of fun is considering adding these games soon.
Dining & Drinks
Victory 1 has a full-service galley that offers a wide range of delicious snacks and meals throughout the trip. You can grab something light like chicken tenders, cheeseburgers, or nachos from the grill station or go for healthier options like grilled veggies and salads. There are also breakfast items like omelets, waffles, and bagels available in the morning.
Reasons Why You Should Still Play Free Slots (Demos)If you are craving for something sweet, head over to the dessert station and treat yourself to cakes, pastries, and ice cream. There is also a complete bar on board, where you can order your favorite cocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks.
Pricing & Promotions
Your gaming journey on Victory 1 begins with selecting a ticket package according to your budget and preferences. There are three different types of tickets, which I have discussed below:
- Rush Hour: Rush Hour tickets cost $26 per person on weekdays and $30 on weekends. These tickets are valid for the evening cruise that starts at 7:30 pm and returns around 10:30 pm. Players receiving tier 1 hits of $25 or more receive a free-of-charge ride on their next cruise.
- Day Tripper: Day Tripper tickets cost $32 on weekdays and $36 on weekends. These tickets are valid for both day and evening cruises. Passengers receiving tier 1 hits of $50 or more receive a free-of-charge ride on their next cruise.
- VIP Hour: VIP Hour tickets cost $42 per person. These tickets are valid for the evening cruise that starts at 7:30 pm and returns around 10:30 pm. VIP players enjoy one hour of unlimited drinking and eating along with $5 in gambling credit. Passengers receiving tier 1 hits of $100 or more receive a free-of-charge ride on their next cruise.
All passengers who hit jackpots worth $500 or more will be offered a complimentary VIP return cruise ticket, a commemorative photo, a complimentary dinner for two, and free birthday cruise.
Secrets Slots Casino Don't Want You To KnowPlayers can earn points through the Game On Rewards program and redeem them for exclusive perks and benefits. Islands of Fun also hosts special events, live shows, and music nights on select cruises, so make sure to keep an eye out for those.
Victory 2
Victory 2 is another popular casino boat operated by Islands of Fun. The ship looks quite similar to Victory 1 and has a seating capacity of around 450 daily passengers. Just like its sister ship, Victory 2 also sets sail twice a day and offers stunning views of the ocean and bay.
However, I found the interiors of this casino boat a bit dull compared to Victory 1. Also, the slot machine selection here is smaller and only features traditional and video machines. If you love playing reel-spinning games, however, you will still have more than 150 titles to pick from.
Overall, I think Victory 1 is a slightly better option between the two casino boats, but don’t count out Victory 2 yet!
Gaming Aboard the Victory 2 Casino Boat
As I just mentioned, Victory 2 has around 150 slot machines on board. All the games are provided by well-known vendors like International Game Technology (IGT) and are perfect for beginners and pros.
Best Free Baccarat Games You Can Play OnlineI spent almost two hours testing dozens of slots, and had a great time. Some of my favorites included Wheel of Fortune, Star Trek, Jeopardy, and Ghostbusters. Coin densities start at $.01, so it won’t cost you much to have fun.
However, I was disappointed to find no table games like blackjack, roulette, or poker onboard. If you prefer card or banker games, it is better to stick to Victory 1 or check out the Island Princess Casino Royale (more on that later).
Also, there is no high-limit area or VIP lounge on Victory 2. All players are seated together in an open-gaming floor, which can get a little overwhelming during peak hours.
Dining & Drinks
Victory 2 has an elegant dining hall that serves delicious snacks, meals, and beverages. The buffet station has a great variety of items, ranging from sandwiches and hamburgers to salads and fresh fruits. I really liked the made-to-order omelet station in the morning and the chocolate fountain that was available throughout the day.
You can also find a complete bar on Victory 2 that serves all types of drinks, including cocktails, martinis, margaritas, and daiquiris. Beers, wines, and spirits are also available at reasonable prices.
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The tickets for Victory 2 are similarly priced to Victory 1:
- Day Tripper: Day Tripper tickets cost $32 on weekdays and $36 on weekends. These tickets are valid for both day and evening cruises. Passengers receiving tier 1 hits of $50 or more receive a free-of-charge ride on their next cruise.
- VIP Hour: VIP Hour tickets cost $42 per person. These tickets are valid for the evening cruise that starts at 7:30 pm and returns around 10:30 pm. VIP players enjoy one hour of unlimited drinking and eating along with $5 in gambling credit. Passengers receiving tier 1 hits of $100 or more receive a free-of-charge ride on their next cruise.
Just like other Miami casino boats, Victory 2 also offers attractive promotions and giveaways. I claimed a free hat when I signed up for the Game On Rewards loyalty program, and received a number of bonuses and prizes by hitting small jackpots.
Victory 2 offers a unique experience called Yacht Party that includes open bar, DJ, hors d’oeuvres, and dancing. The cruise sets sail twice a month on Saturday and costs $95 per person.
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In addition to Victory 1 and Victory 2, there is another casino boat operating near the warm waters of Biscayne National Park. Known as Island Princess Casino Royale, it measure around 350 feet in length and can hold up to 550 passengers at a time.
The casino boat has two decks and boasts state-of-the-art facilities like air conditioning, multiple bars, high-definition flat-screen TVs, and comfortable seating arrangements. The top deck has an open-air lounge where you can enjoy cool sea breeze while playing your favorite games.
Island Princess Casino Royale leaves the port twice a day – at noon and 7:30 pm. During the three-hour voyage, players can enjoy spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay while indulging in quality gambling and mouthwatering cuisine.
Island Princess Casino Royale suspended its operations back in 2019 due to unforeseen circumstances. After remaining closed for nearly two years, it finally resumed services in May 2021. However, things are not the same as they were before the hiatus.
For starters, Island Princess Casino Royale is currently operational only on weekends – Saturdays and Sundays. The cruise sets sail at 7:30 pm and returns around 10:30 pm. The ship has reopened with limited capacity and reduced amenities, so don’t expect the same experience you had before. That being said, let’s take a closer look at what it has to offer.
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While Victory 1 and Victory 2 have similar gaming setups, Island Princess Casino Royale is the only Miami casino boat that offers a wide variety of table games.
Passengers can enjoy classic casino games like blackjack, mini-buma, baccarat, Caribbean stud poker, and Texas Hold ’em bonus poker. Each game has predetermined buy-in amounts, so make sure to check them out before sitting down.
Island Princess Casino Royale has around 300 slot machines on board, ranging from traditional to modern, reel-spinning games. There are plenty of penny slots, as well as high-denomination machines that accept wagers up to $100. Progressive jackpots are also available, so you can try your luck and win big.
Overall, Island Princess Casino Royale is heaven for table game enthusiasts, especially blackjack fans. However, the gaming area can get pretty crowded, so be prepared to wait in line to play your favorite game.
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Island Princess Casino Royale features two full-service galleys that serve a wide variety of snacks, meals, and refreshments. The main dining area is located on the lower deck, whereas the upper deck has a bar and some stools.
My personal favorite was the upper-deck bar, which offers stunning views of the ocean. I ordered a couple of cocktails and some nachos and enjoyed them while watching the sunset. Other dining options include grilled items, salads, sandwiches, soups, and pastries.
Pricing & Promotions
Here’s a quick look at the pricing structure of Island Princess Casino Royale:
- Evening Trip: The evening trip ticket costs $40 on weekends. Players receiving tier 1 hits of $50 or more receive a free-of-charge ride on their next cruise.
Do note the ticket price includes $25 in matchplay, $10 in food credit, and a commemorative photo. Island Princess Casino Royale has a rewarding loyalty program, which I didn’t get to test because the program’s relaunch is scheduled for August 1.
Passengers can participate in special events and promotional giveaways on select cruises. The casino boat also hosts regular themed parties, so make sure to confirm the schedule before making a reservation.
How to Get to Miami Casino Boats
Miami casino boats depart from two ports – Port of Miami and Nearshore Brothers Marina. The former is located at 1015 North America Way, Miami, FL 33139, while the latter is situated at 300 South Bayshore Drive, Miami, FL 33139.
It is recommended to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure to clear boarding and security procedures. Valid ID proof and tickets are required to board the casino boats.
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Most Miami casino boats have a smart-casual dress code. Men can wear collared or short-sleeved shirts, slacks, or jeans, while women can wear blouses, sundresses, capris, or pants. Swimwear is not allowed on the casino floors.
Are Miami Casino Boats Worth It?
Yes, casino boats in Miami are worth it if you want to gamble in Florida because land-based casinos are prohibited. You can enjoy beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay while playing slots, table games, and poker. The cruise ships are air-conditioned, and most of them have open-air lounges. You can also enjoy drinks and delicious cuisine during the cruise. Check the dress codes and ticket prices before booking your seats.
Which Miami Casino Boat Is the Best?
In my opinion, Victory 1 is the best Miami casino boat. It is larger and newer than its sibling, Victory 2, and offers a more diverse selection of slot machines and promos. Both casino boats operated by Islands of Fun are equally great, so it ultimately depends on your preferences. Island Princess Casino Royale is also a decent option if you love playing table games.
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Miami casino boats depart twice a day and offer four to five hours of gaming, dining, and entertainment. Most trips last for three hours, during which you can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.
What Games Can You Play on Miami Casino Boats?
Miami casino boats feature a variety of slot machines, video pokers, progressive jackpots, blackjack, roulette, craps, baccarat, Texas Hold ’em, and other popular table games. The availability of games may vary from ship to ship, so it is better to check the official websites before making a reservation.
Do Miami Casino Boats Have High Limit Slots?
Some Miami casino boats feature high-density slot machines that allow higher wagers and payouts. For instance, Victory 1 has Hot Drop Jackpots that drop hourly, with the daily guaranteed jackpot reaching up to $300,000. It is better to contact the casino boats directly and inquire about their high-limit options.
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No, there are no traditional land-based casinos in Miami Beach. However, you can enjoy gambling on casino boats that operate just off the coast. Some of the popular Miami casino boats include Victory 1, Victory 2, and Island Princess Casino Royale.
What Other Gambling Options Are There in Miami?
If you are looking for other gambling options in Miami, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and The Casino at Dania Beach are two great choices. Unfortunately, these land-based casinos are not located in Miami Beach and are a short drive away.
Compare The Best Miami Casino Boats
Use the following table to compare the main characteristics of top Miami casino boats. Take a good look to determine which one fits your gambling needs and preferences the best.
My Personal Experience
Being a die-hard gambling enthusiast, I had heard a lot about Miami casino boats before I finally decided to give them a shot. My initial plan was to visit a brick-and-mortar casino in Miami, but I changed my mind after reading several casino boat reviews online.
I contacted Islands of Fun and booked tickets for Victory 1’s evening cruise. The process was pretty simple, and I received my tickets via email shortly after making the payment.
I reached the port around 6:30 pm and joined a fairly long queue outside the terminal. There were security checks, and I had to show my ID and printout of the e-tickets. Boarding began around 7 pm, and we set sail shortly afterwards.
Golden Nugget Casino Tips You Need To Win Big!The first thing I noticed onboard was the beautiful view of the Miami skyline. We were moving pretty fast, and the wind was mild. I headed straight to the gaming floor and explored the available options.
There were hundreds of slot machines, so I picked a few based on denomination, theme, and volatility. I played around $50 in the first hour and got lucky twice. I collected my tickets and went to the cash pharmacy to redeem them.
The process was smooth, and I got my money within seconds. I decided to explore the rest of the ship and tried some finger foods from the buffet station. They were pretty decent, and I also grabbed a beer from the bar.
I spent the rest of the cruise playing blackjack and making some new friends. Time flew by quickly, and before I realized, the captain announced our arrival at the port. Everyone disembarked smoothly, and I was home by 11 pm.
Overall, I had a pretty good experience on Victory 1. Yes, the slot machine selection could have been better, but I still managed to win some money and enjoy a fun night out. I will surely try other Miami casino boats in the future to find the absolute best one.
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Florida might be known as the “Sunshine State,” but it is not exactly a hotbed for gambling. Things can be confusing for newcomers because of the many Indian reservations and cruising loopholes that allow bettors to place legal wagers in the state.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the largest land-based casino in Florida, featuring more than 2,000 slot machines and 95 table games. The casino resort also offers live poker rooms, high-stakes bingo, and a luxurious spa.
The Gulfstream Park Racing and Gulfstream Park Casino are two other popular destinations for horse racing and gambling. The casino features around 850 gaming machines and 30 table games. Betting is also available on site for off-track wagering.
Compared to these land-based casinos, Miami casino boats offer a unique and exciting experience. You get to enjoy fresh sea breeze, panoramic views, and a variety of games all at once. Many players also believe that casino boats are more likely to offer loose slots and better payouts.
However, the gaming selection on land-based casinos is way better than casino boats. You also get access to premium restaurants, bars, clubs, spas, and other entertainment options at large casino resorts. So, it depends on your preferences and gambling goals.
Conclusion
Miami might not have extravagant land-based casinos, but you can still satisfy your gambling cravings on casino boats. I thoroughly reviewed three such casinos that operate near the warm waters of Biscayne National Park, and all of them deserve attention for different reasons.
In my opinion, Victory 1 is the best casino boat in Miami, but I suggest keeping your options open and trying others as well. Make sure to also check the best casinos in the Sunshine State.
My name is David McLean, I’ve had an interest in casinos and fair games since my early teenager years, when I would play simple card games with my friends. Nowadays I live in Las Vegas, where I work as a card dealer in one of the city’s world-renowned casinos. When Iam not working, I like sharing my knowledge about casinos, games, and everything related with them through my writings.
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