If you’ve never stepped foot in a cruise ship casino before, you’re not alone. For a lot of MSC cruisers, the casino is one of those spaces you walk past a dozen times before deciding whether it’s worth stopping in.
This guide is here to make that decision easier.
Whether you’re a total beginner, a casual slot player, or someone who’s used to land-based casinos and wants to know how things work at sea, this page walks through the basics of the MSC casino experience in plain English.
No pressure. No hype. Just what to expect.
What Is the MSC Casino Like?
Every ship sailing with MSC Cruises has a casino onboard, but the experience is a little different than what you might expect from Vegas or Atlantic City.
In general, MSC casinos are:
- Quieter and more relaxed
- Less flashy than many U.S. cruise lines
- Focused heavily on slot machines
- Designed for casual entertainment, not high-stakes play
You do not need to be a gambler to walk in. Many people simply pass through, watch a game, or play a few spins before heading to dinner or a show.
If the idea of a loud, smoky, packed casino turns you off, MSC’s version often feels more approachable.
Where Is the Casino Located on MSC Ships?
On most MSC ships, the casino sits on a lower or mid-level deck and often doubles as a main walkway between venues.
That means:
- You will probably walk through it multiple times
- Slot machines usually line the main paths
- Table games are set deeper inside the space
This layout surprises first-time cruisers, especially families. We’ll cover kids and casino access later, but for now, just know that seeing the casino does not mean you have to participate.
When Are MSC Casinos Open?
This is one of the most common questions.
MSC casinos are only allowed to operate when the ship is in international waters. Because of that:
- The casino is closed while docked in port
- Opening times vary by itinerary and sailing speed
- Sea days usually have the longest casino hours
- Evening hours are the most consistent
On embarkation day, the casino often opens later than people expect. Announcements are typically made onboard and posted in the MSC app once gaming opens.
If you’re planning to play on the first night, be flexible.
What Games Are Available in the MSC Casino?
MSC casinos lean heavily toward slot machines, which make up the majority of the floor space. You’ll find a mix of:
- Traditional reel slots
- Video slots
- Progressive machines
Table games vary by ship but commonly include:
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Craps
- Poker-style table games
Some ships also offer electronic table games, which are popular with newer players who want lower minimums and a slower pace.
If you’re looking for a deep dive into specific games, minimums, and rules, we cover that in a separate guide.
How Do You Pay in the MSC Casino?
You do not need to carry cash around the ship to play.
Most casino play on MSC works like this:
- You insert your cruise card into the machine or give it to the dealer
- Your play is charged to your onboard account
- Charges settle at the end of the cruise
Some ships offer limited cash access options, but for most guests, using the cruise card is the easiest and most common approach.
If you like keeping a tight budget, it’s a good idea to monitor your onboard account balance in the app.
Is There a Dress Code for the MSC Casino?
The short answer is no, not really.
MSC casinos do not have a formal dress code, but there are a few common-sense expectations:
- Shoes are required
- Swimwear is discouraged
- Evening attire is typically smart casual
During the day, you’ll see everything from shorts and T-shirts to cover-ups. In the evening, many guests stop by before or after dinner, so things look a bit more polished. But it’s a cruise so in the evening it’s not unusual to see somebody in a suit next to another person wearing shorts and a t-shirt.
No one is going to judge what you’re wearing, and you won’t be turned away unless you’re fresh off the pool deck.
Casino Etiquette on MSC Ships
If you’ve never played in a casino before, don’t worry. MSC casinos are beginner-friendly.
A few basics:
- Dealers are there to help, not intimidate
- It’s okay to ask questions
- Tipping dealers is optional and not expected
- Take your time and play at your comfort level
You’ll see plenty of first-time players learning as they go. And it’s a great opportunity to learn as it’s not the typical gambling mecca.
Can Kids Walk Through the MSC Casino?
This matters for families, and the answer depends on the ship layout.
In general:
- Children are not allowed to gamble or linger in the casino
- Kids may be allowed to walk through if it’s a main passageway
- Staff will redirect minors who stop near machines or tables
Because many MSC ships use the casino as a central walkway, families or even kids by themselves pas through on the way to shows or dining venues. That’s normal and expected.
If you want to avoid the area altogether, alternate routes are usually available, but it may require you to go up or down a deck level as most casinos span the width of the ship at certain points.
How MSC Casino Rewards Work (The Short Version)
MSC does have a casino rewards system, but it’s not always well explained onboard.
Here’s the high-level view:
- Points are earned based on how much you play, not how long you sit
- Slot play typically earns points faster than table games
- Rewards can include free drinks while playing, discounts, or future cruise offers
Many cruisers are surprised to receive casino offers after their cruise, even if they didn’t think they played much.
We break down how points, offers, and “free” cruises actually work in separate guides.
Smoking in the MSC Casino
Smoking is one of the most debated aspects of casinos at sea.
The basics:
- Smoking is allowed in designated casino areas on many MSC ships
- Some ships have non-smoking sections
- Air quality and layout vary by ship class
This is a major point of feedback from cruisers, both positive and negative. If smoke sensitivity is a concern, timing and ship selection matter.
Is the MSC Casino Worth It?
That depends on what you’re looking for.
If your goal is:
- Entertainment after dinner
- A few spins or hands with low pressure
- A quieter casino environment
- Enjoy yourself with some downtime on your vacation
Then many cruisers find MSC casinos enjoyable.
If you’re chasing high return-to-player rates or a Vegas-style atmosphere, a cruise ship casino may feel limiting.
The key is to treat it as entertainment, not an investment.
The Bottom Line
The MSC casino is not a must-do, but it is a well-integrated part of the onboard experience.
You do not need to be a gambler.
You do not need to dress up.
You do not need to spend a lot of money.
If you’re curious, walk in, take a look, and decide for yourself.
And if you want to go deeper, whether that’s understanding casino rewards, avoiding smoke, or maximizing value, this guide is just the starting point.