Goa Casino Ship Entry Fees

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Goa, Sikkim, and the union territory of Daman and Diu are the only places in India where you can legally play casino games. The casinos in Goa are the most popular, offering a range of games and entertainment. There are many food and dining options as well. Managed professionally, many of them are 5-star facilities, attracting thousands of Indian and international tourists.

The first casino house in Goa opened in the late 1990s, and since then, they have become hugely popular. Thousands visit them every year. Gambling is a billion dollar industry in India, with Goa contributing a lot of this money. In 2013 for instance, the Goa casinos contributed almost 20 million US dollars to the state revenue.

There are two types of casinos in Goa:

• Land-based casinos (onshore);
• Ship casinos (offshore).

Offshore casinos were established as the Indian laws did not allow gambling on Indian land, but there was no regulation on water. In time, the laws were changed, allowing legal gambling in Goa, but some of the best casinos in the state are still on the decks of ships, along the Mandovi River and around Panaji. Many of them provide international level luxury and experiences.

Some of the offshore casinos also have onshore facilities. However, the onshore casinos can only have electronic games.

The Goa government is now trying to attract more tourists by letting more operators open casinos and gambling houses in Goa.

Casinos In Goa – Highlights

Goa Casino Ship Entry Fees Requirements

Casino Royale Goa

Popularly known as the Deltin Royale, this is the largest offshore and the most popular casino in Goa. With poker rooms, board games, slot machines, VIP-rooms and halls, an amphitheater and bar, you will get a Las Vegas experience here.

Games – 50 classical board games, slots machines, blackjack, teen patti, American roulette, baccarat, Indian Flush, and a room only for poker.

• Offshore casino on the Mandovi River in Panaji.
• There are 6 decks and 3 gaming floors.
• VIP-rooms, halls, amphitheater, helicopter platform.
• Sky Bar, Whiskey Lounge that is well stocked with single malts and hand-rolled cigars, and signature restaurant ‘Vegas’ offering a large buffet spread.
• Dance and music performances.

Address – Noah’s Ark, RND Jetty, Dayanand Bandodkar Road, Panaji

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Only smart casual. Sleeveless shirts, sandals, flip-flops, and shorts are not allowed.

Prices – 2,000 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 3,000 INR Friday to Sunday. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

Carnival Casino

A new casino, but it has become very popular. There is an offshore casino and an onshore one too at the Goa Marriott hotel in Miramar beach. A huge range of games and entertainment options!

Games – American Roulette, blackjack, baccarat, 5-card poker, slots machines, progressive jackpots. The largest selection of slots in Goa!

• Offshore casino on the Mandovi River. Onshore casino inside Marriott hotel in Miramar beach, North Goa.
• 4 decks, 2 gaming floors.
• Children’s area, restaurants.
• Theme music, entertainment shows by local and international artists.
• Exclusive entertainment deck.
• Private parties at Boa Sorte, the rooftop deck.

Address – Goa Marriott Resort & Spa in Miramar, Mandovi River, Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 1,500 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person and play coupon of 1,000 rupees. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, and unlimited food.

MV Caravela

This casino is also owned by the Deltin group. This was the first floatel casino in India, offering both luxurious accommodation and casino gaming. Guest suites and rooms, many games to choose from, food and drinks! MV Caravela is located on the Mandovi River in Panaji.

Games – American Roulette, flash, baccarat, Caribbean poker, blackjack, slots.

• 80 gaming positions, more than 10 games, 17 gaming tables.
• Several guest rooms and suites, including an extravagant two-level Mansion Suite with its own private gaming tables.
• Suites made with mahogany, gold, and amber shades.
• On-deck Jacuzzi, spa, babysitting, onboard library.
• Fine dining, bar on the sundeck, outdoor swimming pool.

Address – Fisheries Jetty, Fisheries Department Building, (opposite Mandovi Hotel), Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 3, 000 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 4,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Separate package for couple’s. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

Casino Pride

Extremely popular, Casino Pride is also located on the Mandovi River in a beautiful 30,000 sq. ft. vessel. Cheaper than Deltin Royale! More than 500 guests can play games here at one time. It is popular with the Indian high-rollers.

Games – Flush, mini flush, 5-card poker, Texas Hold’em poker, rummy, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, slots machines.

• 3 floors, 30,000 square feet, 40 gaming tables.
• Multi-cuisine restaurants, well-stocked bar, barbeque.
• 10,000 square feet Weather Deck for parties.
• Entertainment, Bollywood-style live acts. Live entertainment between 9 PM and 11 PM.
• Big poker tournaments.
• Room for kids full of the latest electronic games.
• Gold embellish ceilings.

Address – Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Regulations – Everyone can enter, but only those above 21 can play.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 1,500 INR entry fee Monday to Thursday per person. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday with 1,000 rupees play coupon. Alcoholic drinks, entertainment, unlimited food, and playing chips are included in this price.

King's Casino

A smaller, but more intense offshore casino on the Mandovi River! This casino can accommodate 150 guests at any time. It is on board the sleek catamaran, MV. Arabian Sea King.

Games – American Roulette, high-limit, blackjack, 3-card stud, baccarat, pontoon, slots machines, video poker.

• In a small catamaran offering a more intense casino gaming experience.
• 5 video slots, 5 mega jack slot machines
• More intimate setting than the bigger casinos.
• Can accommodate 150 guests.
• Restaurant and bar, live entertainment.
• Restrooms
• Creche

Address – On the Mandovi River in a catamaran, Panaji.

Timing – Daily, 5 PM to 10 AM

Regulations – Players only

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 5,000 INR. Rupees 4,500 worth of non-negotiable chips.

Maharajah Casino

Maharajah Casino by Big Daddy ship is also on the Mandovi River in Panaji. It is further into the water. Many gaming and entertainment options on the ship!

Games – Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, katti or andar bahar, rashi wheel, 3-card and 5-card poker, mini flash, mang patta, rummy, Indian flash, Texas Hold’em poker.

• 4 decks, 20,000 square meter
• New luxurious interior
• Restaurants, bars, buffet
• Live dance performances, live orchestra, DJ nights, poker nights

Address – Captain of Ports Jetty, Panaji.

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – Regular and Premium packages. The cost varies between 2,000 INR and 3,500 INR for weekdays, and 1,500 and 4,500 for Friday-Sunday. VIP packages cost 6,000 INR for all days of the week.

Dunes Casino

This is a luxury land-based casino in South Goa, close to the Varca beach. It is located inside the Zuri White Sands Resort. A relatively smaller casino, but there are many games on display! There are many entertainment and food options.

Games – Blackjack, baccarat, roulette, rummy, mini flash, 2-card poker.

• 4 table games, 20 gaming machines.
• 4,000 square feet gaming area.
• 6 restaurants, gymnasiums, salon, spa
• Swimming pool, activity center

Address – The Zuri White Sands Resort & Casino, Pedda, Varca.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 700 INR entry fee. No inclusions.

Casino Pearl

Casino Pearl is located within the Bogmallo Beach resort, very close to the Goa International Airport at Dabolim. The resort is located on the Bogmallo beach. This is the largest casino in South Goa.

Games – Roulette, baccarat, blackjack, tai-sai, slots machines.

• 1 table game, 26 gaming machines.
• 4,000 square feet gaming area.
• Robotic Arm Baccarat station is appreciated by the players.
• Restaurants, bars, salon, spa, fitness center
• Deluxe, superior rooms

Address – Bogmallo Beach Resort, Vasco da Gama.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual.

Prices – 500 INR entry fee. Unlimited food, drinks, and snacks while playing.

Chances Casino

Chances Casino is located at the Vainguinim Valley Resort Hotel, which is 200 meters from the Vainguinim beach in South Goa. This is the oldest onshore casino in Goa. Popular with the locals and regular players! It still uses the traditional coin slot machines.

Games – American Roulette, mini baccarat, blackjack, digital blackjack, slots machines, Royal Ascot Horse Racing.

• Largest gaming floor in Goa — 30,000 sq ft.
• VIP gaming rooms
• Restaurants, bars.
• Live music every Tuesday, Friday, Sunday
• Kids garden
• Spa, pool

Address – 184/189, Machado's Cove, Dona Paula.

Timing – 11 AM to 4 AM

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 750 INR entry fee. Unlimited drinks and snacks included.

Casino Strike

This Casino is located within the lavish Grand Hyatt Hotel at Bambolim in South Goa. Launched in 2016, this is the biggest casino in India. Plenty of gaming options!

Games – Roulette, baccarat, money wheel, Indian flush, blackjack, slots machines, casino war, andar bahar.

• 3 floors of gaming space floor for high rollers, VIP floor.
• Latest slots machines and other games not available anywhere else in India.
• Live performances, Russian dancers, DJ shows every night.
• 3 pools, spa, steam room, hot tubs, gymnasium.
• Crèche for infants, playstation for teenagers.

Address – Grand Hyatt Hotel, Bambolim.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 1,500 INR Monday to Thursday. 2,000 INR Friday to Sunday. Unlimited drinks while gaming and buffet dinner included. One-time gaming chips.

Casino Palms

Casino Palms is located within the La Calypso Hotel, which is close to the Baga beach in North Goa. This is one of the most relaxed gaming houses in Goa.

Games – Roulette, machine poker, baccarat, mini flush, blackjack, slots machines.

• Largest and most spacious casino (onshore) in North Goa.
• Many exciting games to choose from.
• Restaurants, bars, ayurvedic massage.
• Spa, swimming pool.

Address – No. 7/129-B, Saunta Vadoo, Calangute-Baga Road, Bardez, Baga.

Timing – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Dress – Smart casual or formal wear.

Prices – 1,000 INR for all days of the week. Unlimited food and drinks.

Here are some other good land-based casinos in Goa –

• The Leela Palace – At The Leela Palace in Cavelossim, South Goa
• Hacienda De Oro – At the Holiday Inn Hotel in Cavelossim, South Goa
• Goldfinger – At the Cidade de Goa Hotel in Calangute, North Goa
• Treasure – At the Majorda Beach Resort Hotel in Majorda, South Goa
• Mint Club – At the Rivera De Goa Resort Hotel in Calangute, North Goa

Goa Casino Ship Entry Fees Waived

Until and unless a set of foolproof rules is put in place, the casino ban is going to be very problematic to implement. How does one distinguish between a ‘tourist’ and someone who is a ‘domiciled or permanently resident’?

On Thursday, the government announced that Goans would not be allowed to gamble in the state’s casinos with effect from 1 February 2020. The person responsible for enforcing this ban was appointed to the post on Friday. GST Commissioner Deepak Bandekar is Goa’s first Gaming Commissioner.

The law defines a ‘tourist’ as a person who is at least 21 years old, (including pilgrims), who is on a visit to Goa, and is not domiciled or permanently resident in the state, and holds a valid ‘tourist permit’ issued under the Act. Anyone without a valid tourist permit found gambling in a casino must pay a fine that is 10 times the fee for the tourist permit. The Gaming Commissioner has the power to issue ‘tourist permits’, as well as to authorise duly registered persons, agencies or hotels to issue permits.

Speaking to the media persons after the Martyr’s Day function at Panaji’s Azad Maidan on Thursday, Chief Minister Dr Pramod Sawant said that he had assured the Goa Legislative Assembly during the 2018 monsoon session that Goans would be barred from entering off-shore casinos. He said that the Gaming Commissioner has the power to visit offshore casinos at any time of the day or night and seek identity proof from any gambler, to ensure that no Goan has entered.

Not quite yet.

While the Act does say that no person other than a ‘tourist’ can enter any place where gambling is conducted, all that the law requires is carrying of a ‘tourist permit’. Citizens of India are not constitutionally required to carry ‘identity proof’ on them at all times and, therefore, all that the Gaming Commissioner is empowered to check is whether those gambling have valid tourist permits or not.

Until and unless a set of foolproof rules is put in place, this ban is going to be very problematic to implement. What distinguishes ‘domiciled or permanently resident’? ‘Domiciled’ may be clear, since the state issues domicile certificates. But ‘permanently resident’; what’s that? For example, is someone working in Goa on a transferable job with a ‘permanent address’ elsewhere a ‘permanent resident’ of Goa or not? Is an NRI Goan who works in the Gulf – or on a ship for nine months in the year – a ‘permanent resident’ or a ‘tourist’?

Neither Goa nor any other state in India issues identity cards to its residents. Besides, it is not yet clear whether, under the Constitution, Goa can legally differentiate and discriminate against those who are residents of the state and those who are not.

Benaulim NCP MLA Churchill Alemao – who was in the forefront of the move to bring casinos to Goa in the 1990s – has recently been putting pressure on the government to ban Goans from casinos. In the Assembly, Churchill claimed that Singapore had banned locals from its casinos.

Again, not quite.

Under an exception made to the Singapore law, it is mandatory for casino operators to impose an entry fee on citizens or permanent residents to enter a casino. The entry fee is presently $150 (Rs7,850) for 24 hours, or $3,000 (Rs1.57 lakh) for an annual membership.

One of the reasons for Goa’s ban is that former Goa BJP President Vinay Tendulkar had in the run up to Lok Sabha elections in May 2019, demanded that off-shore casinos be shut. At the time, CM Pramod Sawant said the government would consider the demand.

But in June 2019, after the elections, Mr Sawant categorically stated that casinos were crucial for Goa’s tourism. “We need to do whatever activities are required to attract tourists to Goa… we can’t close anything overnight,” he said. On Wednesday 7 August 2020, the CM told the Legislative Assembly that the government had collected Rs411 crore in revenue from onshore and offshore casinos in the financial year 2018-19.

If the reason for keeping the casinos going is the revenue they bring to the state, why get into bans that may or may not be legal, and are anyway hard to implement? Why not be smart like Singapore, and impose a stiff fee on locals that want to gamble? The Gaming Commissioner can sell both ‘tourist’ and ‘local’ permits; the latter priced much higher than the former. That will further increase Goa’s revenues and the high cost will deter locals from gambling.

One Last Thought

Finally, if the state government does manage to properly legally define who is a Goan and who is not, then it can and must go ahead and fulfil another, more important and longstanding demand of the Goan people.

Non-Goans must be banned from buying land in Goa!

Goa Casino Ship Entry Fees Pass