Published on: October 8, 2025, 12:37h.

Updated on: October 8, 2025, 12:52h.

• Legend of the Seas will introduce the first-ever two-level casino in Royal Caribbean’s fleet
• This new ship is scheduled to embark in July 2026

Royal Caribbean has disclosed design elements of its upcoming vessel, Legend of the Seas, though not every detail has met with enthusiasm.

Among the numerous attractions of this ship, valued at over $2 billion, will be the Royal Railway, offering a unique five-course dining experience within a full-sized railroad car. Additionally, an immersive adventure through Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory is anticipated to be a highlight.

However, some seasoned cruise enthusiasts have expressed skepticism regarding the extensive casino space. While Casino Royale will be the first two-story gambling area on a Royal Caribbean ship, critics argue it may be excessively large.

“You can’t find an empty pool deck chair or more than 6 inches of space in a pool after 8:45 am, yet they can allocate a second level for gambling,” commented a user on Royal Caribbean’s Reddit.

“Fantastic, just what we need—an even larger smoke-filled area to dodge,” another comment read.

The Casino Royale on Legend of the Seas is projected to feature several hundred slot machines along with 40 live-dealer table games.

Is This the Casino of the Seas? 

Casino.org has recently reported that the U.S. cruise industry is re-embracing the onboard casino experience.

Back in May, Carnival launched a series of adult-only, gambling-centric cruises, a move attributed to scheduling adjustments during dry dock periods.

In April, Royal Caribbean announced a transition, phasing out some of its jazz and comedy venues in favor of smoke-free gaming areas, providing dedicated spaces for players to enjoy without secondhand smoke exposure.

“Given how cruise lines are expanding their casino spaces, I’m surprised they haven’t branded a ship Casino of the Seas,” another user noted on Reddit.

Cruise companies tend to keep their gaming revenue private, often categorizing it under “onboard revenue,” which includes earnings from non-ticket services. This category comprises casino operations, cancellation charges, travel insurance, third-party sales, and extra charges for food and beverages.

Focusing on Family-Friendly Cruises 

Casino areas do not significantly inflate the overall deck space, according to industry executives. The enhanced gaming environments are intended to allow cruise lines to compete with major land-based destinations like Las Vegas.

“We believe we are transitioning from a traditional cruise experience to a world-class family-oriented option that stands alongside Orlando and Las Vegas as a premier land-based destination,” stated Jason Liberty, CEO of Royal Caribbean Group, during a February earnings call.

The recent announcement concerning Legend of the Seas also emphasized that the ship will offer “exceptional family-friendly experiences.”

“With Legend of the Seas, we are realizing our most remarkable vacation experience yet, continually stretching the limits with offerings that guests adore,” said Michael Bayley, president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International. “Guests seeking adventure and extraordinary destinations in Europe and the Caribbean will find it all on Legend.”

Legend of the Seas is anticipated to embark on its maiden voyage in July 2026.