Ships losing business to online casinos
While many casino players like to go on holiday, most would rather enjoy online casinos from the comfort of their homes, it has been found.
The draw of online casinos such as Kerching is proving a popular attraction for gamers, with traditional cruise ship casinos reporting a dip in trade. It is thought players’ economic concerns and tightened belts are behind the shift.
One woman, Paula Barnes, is a keen gamer in online casinos.
She says the money-saving aspect of online casinos is what attracts her: "I used to book cruises all the time. But three-quarters of my fun was playing. I can do that these days without leaving my house, and save a bunch of money as well."
Online casinos are famed for their accessibility and choice of games. Furthermore, online casinos such as Kerching offer versions of popular slots and fruit machines like Lil' Lady and Da Vinci Diamonds, exclusively available online.
While the recession and growing popularity of Native American casinos are large factors in the reported decline in bookings for luxury boat trips, the popularity of online casinos is seen as a driving force.
In an attempt to compete with online casinos, authorities in Port Canaveral, Florida, are considering overruling the current law that states gaming on cruises must begin after the ship passes outside the three-mile limit.
The plans, aimed at drawing gamers away from online casinos, will see cruise ships become permanently moored riverboats, offering casino games to players.