In South Carolina, casino boats represent one of the few avenues for gambling amid the state's stringent gaming regulations. These cruise ships provide an escape from the land-based laws by taking players into international waters where different regulations apply.
South Carolina’s online casinos are another excellent avenue for engaging in gaming within the Palmetto State. However, if you wish to participate in physical gaming experiences, you'll need to step outside either by land or sea, as local law doesn't permit it.
Fortunately, South Carolina offers a variety of casino cruise options. Read on to discover my recommendations for the top gambling cruises that set sail from ports within the state.
Is Gambling Legal In South Carolina?
In recent years, the gambling landscape in the US has undergone significant changes, with many states easing their restrictions, including those governing sports betting.
Regrettably, South Carolina has fallen behind many other states in terms of gambling legalization. Commercial gaming activities, including casinos and sports betting, remain largely prohibited within the state.
Lawmakers have proposed amendments efforts have been made to legalize sports betting in South Carolina, but thus far, none have succeeded. However, residents can still access online betting platforms located outside the state’s jurisdiction.
This includes South Carolina sports betting sites and casinos. These online gambling sites aren’t actually situated within the state but still permit South Carolinians to place bets legally.
Licensed Casino Boats Operating in South Carolina
The casino boats in South Carolina function similarly to online betting platforms that are based in different regions. They navigate around the state's gambling laws, offering legal gaming opportunities to locals and visitors alike.
The primary distinction is that these casino cruises physically transport gamblers beyond state lines. By taking players out to sea, these floating casinos can offer various games, including slots and table games, free from state regulations once they are in international waters.
The Big “M” Casino
- Address: 4491 Mineola Ave, Little River, SC 29566
- Phone Number: (843) 249-9811
- Official Website
One well-known casino boat in the state is the Big 'M' Casino, which is docked in Little River, SC, just north of the famous Myrtle Beach.
It also caters to gamblers from North Carolina, as it is located right near the state border. Guests have two vessels to choose from, simply named Ship I and Ship II.
Ship II is the larger option, but both ships provide a fantastic selection of real money casino games. Ship I boasts more than 150 slot machines, while Ship II has close to 250. Players can also enjoy various table games, including:
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Three Card Poker
- Let It Ride
The Big 'M' Casino in Little River, South Carolina, also offers enticing promotions for its visitors. For example, newcomers can receive $10 in bonus credits. Additionally, there are events such as Ladies' Night and Senior's Day to enhance the experience.
Comparable Online Casino Option
While the Big 'M' Casino is a fantastic option for gambling cruises, keep in mind that it doesn’t operate around the clock. If you’re eager to practice or don’t wish to wait to play, consider visiting Wild Casino . This online gambling platform features hundreds of casino games, including over 400 real money slot games .
Wild also offers an impressive variety of table games that match or surpass the choices available at The Big 'M' Casino. There are great casino bonuses for new players, which can provide significant bonuses to boost your gambling budget.
Carnival Sunshine Casino
- Location: 32 Washington St, Charleston, SC 29401
- Phone Number: (800) 764-7419
- Official Website
Another great casino boat option in South Carolina is located in Charleston. The Carnival Sunshine Casino operates on the Carnival Sunshine ship, which is among the top cruise lines in the United States.
This cruise offers a longer experience compared to others mentioned, typically lasting four days based on the destination chosen. The Carnival Sunshine can take you to either the Bahamas or the Caribbean, allowing ample time to enjoy various casino games.
At the Carnival Sunshine Casino, guests can choose from numerous table games, including:
- Craps
- Blackjack
- Roulette
There are a variety of poker tables available, catering to both high and low-stakes players. Since you'll be gambling in international waters, the only requirement is that guests need to be at least 18 years old to participate.
Comparable Online Casino Option
A wonderful online alternative for those who enjoy the Carnival Sunshine Casino experience is DuckyLuck Casino . This platform boasts a diverse array of table games and even features live dealer options. You can also explore games in demo mode without any cost.
With DuckyLuck, you can practice playing online craps , blackjack, roulette, and other table games at no cost before boarding the Carnival Sunshine. It also offers a great mobile casino app , allowing you to hone your skills straight from your smartphone or tablet.
What Happened to the SunCruz Aquasino Casino Boat in South Carolina?
However, not all casino boats in South Carolina have thrived as the successful ones mentioned earlier. Tragically, the SunCruz Aquasino's operations came to an end in 2014.
Originally launched in Palm Beach, FL, the Aquasino transitioned to South Carolina in 2010. It featured a five-hour cruise with a capacity for 600 passengers, providing table games like poker and blackjack, along with various slot machines.
The SunCruz Aquasino was a favored choice for casino enthusiasts near Myrtle Beach, docking in Little River. However, it ceased operations in 2014 and is not available to local gamblers anymore.
Comparable Online Casino Option
Though the SunCruz Aquasino is no longer operational, fortunately, Bovada is still in business. This online gambling platform serves as an excellent substitute for those who enjoyed the now-defunct casino cruise in South Carolina.
Bovada provides hundreds of casino gaming options, including live dealer online blackjack , slots, and online roulette . You can also vie for special progressive jackpots known as Hot Drop Jackpots. Moreover, the site hosts one of the top online sportsbooks , so you can place bets on all your favorite sports teams.
As a Bovada member, you can access both the casino and sportsbook through your preferred mobile device or computer, allowing you to transform any cruise in South Carolina into your personal casino experience.
While the SunCruz Casino boat may be closed, you can still recreate that experience using Bovada’s mobile casino application. You can even try out free versions of all their online casino games.
Advice for Players Using Casino Boats in South Carolina
Casino cruises are an excellent choice for South Carolina residents seeking an authentic gambling experience. If you plan to enjoy the aforementioned boats, be sure to adhere to these helpful tips for a successful casino cruise:
Book in Advance
If you're considering gambling on a South Carolina casino boat, one of the first things to do is to book your trip early. With limited options for casino boat gambling, reserving your seat promptly is essential.
Fortunately, booking your cruise is a straightforward process. Both the Carnival Sunshine and the Big 'M' Casino offer online booking, making it very convenient to secure your spot on either cruise in South Carolina.
Avoid Drinking Too Much
If you've been to a casino before, you might have noticed that complimentary drinks are often provided to patrons. Many casinos even offer free alcoholic beverages to encourage more gambling.
This tactic works because alcohol tends to reduce inhibitions, leading to increased gambling activity. Careless gambling can be detrimental to your finances, so if you're planning on a casino boat trip in South Carolina, be mindful of your alcohol consumption.
Stick to Your Bankroll Limits
Your betting strategy will heavily rely on your bankroll, which is the money you have allocated for gambling. Effectively managing your bankroll will enable you to spend more time enjoying your favorite games on these casino cruises.
When your bankroll is depleted, it’s best to stop gambling. Ignoring your budget can lead to betting amounts you can't afford to lose. Luckily, the casino boats offer non-gambling activities you can enjoy after you've finished playing.
Which Casino Boat Will You Choose to Experience Next in South Carolina?
Casino boats in South Carolina provide local residents with an opportunity for live gambling activities. Additionally, there are online gambling sites that accept players from South Carolina, offering paid gaming options. Both alternatives are excellent choices while state legislators work on updating gambling laws.
SC Top Gambling Cruises South Carolina’s online casinos Is Gambling Legal In South Carolina? Lawmakers have .