The Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Authority has clarified that casinos operating on cruise ships and passenger vessels fall outside its regulatory framework. This applies regardless of the vessel’s flag, as such activities occur beyond the jurisdiction of the Republic of Cyprus.
The authority stated, “Casinos operating on cruise ships and passenger vessels do not fall under the regulatory and supervisory framework of the authority, regardless of the ship’s flag.” This clarification is particularly significant as the cruise ship gaming industry continues to expand globally.
According to the authority, casinos on these vessels are permitted to operate only under specific conditions. “Casinos on these vessels operate exclusively when they are in international waters and not while they are in ports or within the territorial waters of the Republic of Cyprus,” it explained.
This announcement comes amidst projections that the global cruise sector will reach $18.30 billion by 2030, growing at an annual rate of 11.5 per cent. Of this revenue, estimates suggest that approximately 20 to 30 per cent can be attributed to gaming activities onboard.
The Cyprus Gaming and Casino Supervision Authority also addressed public participation in gambling while travelling. “Members of the public, if they choose to participate in any gaming activity during a journey, should do so responsibly, with prudence and full awareness that participation in games should be treated solely as a form of entertainment and not as a means of generating income or covering financial obligations,” the authority advised.
Recognising the unique environment of cruise ships, where passengers have constant access to entertainment options, the authority emphasised the importance of responsible behaviour. This is particularly crucial given the captive audience that cruise ships represent.
Furthermore, the authority reiterated its responsibilities within Cyprus, stating, “The authority continues to exercise its responsibilities exclusively over licensed activities within the territory of the Republic, ensuring the proper functioning of the market and the protection of the public.”
As cruise ships operate as self-contained ecosystems, they attract passengers with both time and disposable income, creating a consistent demand for onboard gaming. This model has proven essential for cruise operators, with onboard spending, including gaming, accounting for around 30 per cent of total cruise income.
Major cruise companies are capitalising on this demand, generating substantial gaming revenue through integrated onboard payment systems that facilitate seamless transactions and enhance customer engagement. With a rise in demand for cruise travel, passenger numbers are expected to increase from 35 million to 39.7 million by 2027, further solidifying the gaming industry’s role in the cruise sector.
