Cruise Lines Strike Deals With Casino Operators

Casino gamblers heading to the high seas now have the opportunity to earn loyalty points that can be used beyond a cruise line.

Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line recently announced agreements with land-based casino corporations that extend those casino benefits beyond the ships. Royal Caribbean has a deal with Hard Rock International while Carnival has partnered with Bally’s Corp. The new agreements allow gamblers to earn points toward cruises at land-based casinos as well as on the ships.

“The new partnership between Carnival and Bally’s also extends the reach of both brands,” the cruise line noted. “Known as America’s Cruise Line, Carnival sails from 14 U.S. homeports – more than any other cruise line – and Bally’s operates 15 popular properties nationwide.”

Added Flexibility, Brand Extensions

The Royal Caribbean deal also allows players to earn points at both land-based and on-ship casinos. Both deals allow players to receive discounts on cruises and other promotions.

Players can also earn discounts at land-based casinos as well. The deals are fairly new in the cruise industry, at least to this extent, and not only offer more rewards for players but also a chance for the cruise lines and casinos to extend their brands.

The agreements allow the gaming operators and cruise ships to get more customers on a ship or in a land-based casino resort.

“Whether extending their cruise vacation at one of our port-adjacent properties, visiting one of the participating Hard Rock Hotel and Cafe locations worldwide or enjoying the cruise lines’ ships sailing around the world, travelers will have new ways to enjoy the best of what Hard Rock, Seminole Casinos, and Royal Caribbean and Celebrity have to offer,” Hard Rock chief marketing officer Jeff Hook said.

Poker Cruises Remain Popular

Poker cruises have also long been popular with gamblers as well and cruise lines continue to cater to this segment of gamblers as well.

Norwegian Cruise Lines has run a poker cruise for several years, featuring a $700,000 guaranteed championship event with poker pros like Joe Cada and Loni Harwood hosting the events.

The World Poker Tour recently partnered with Virgin Voyages for a tournament series at sea in April. Card Player Cruises also regularly sponsors poker cruises as well.

*Photo: Carnival Cruises

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