Emerald Princess Casino Review



So you're looking at the Emerald Princess II and wondering if it's worth the drive to Brunswick, Georgia. Here's the short answer: if you want a classic, no-frills gambling experience where the focus is entirely on the games rather than resort amenities, this casino cruise delivers exactly that. But if you're expecting a land-based Vegas-style resort with a pool and spa, you're looking in the wrong place. The Emerald Princess is a different beast entirely—a four-deck cruise ship that takes you into international waters for a few hours of blackjack, slots, and buffet dining.

What makes this unique for Georgia players is simple: it's one of the only legal ways to play table games in the state. Georgia's gambling laws are strict, prohibiting most forms of casino gaming on land. By sailing three miles out into the Atlantic, the Emerald Princess operates in international waters, bypassing those restrictions. It's a workaround that's been running for years, attracting players from Atlanta, Savannah, Jacksonville, and everywhere in between.

How the Casino Cruise Experience Works

Before you book, understand that this isn't a standard casino visit. You can't just show up, play for 20 minutes, and leave. The ship sails on a schedule—typically two cruises per day—and you're committed to the duration of the voyage. Boarding usually begins about an hour before departure, and the entire experience lasts around five hours including boarding, sailing out, gaming time, and the return trip.

The morning cruise generally boards at 10:00 AM with a return around 2:30 PM, while the evening cruise boards at 6:00 PM and returns close to midnight. This structure means you need to plan your day around it. On the plus side, the time constraint creates a focused gambling session. Some players prefer this to the endless nature of land-based casinos where fatigue can lead to poor decisions at 3 AM.

Parking is free at the dock in Brunswick, which is a nice change from the $20+ daily fees you'll find at many casinos. You'll need a valid ID to board—passengers must be 21 or older—and the ship does enforce a dress code, though it's fairly relaxed. No swimwear or overly casual beach attire, but you don't need a suit either.

Gaming Floor Options and Table Limits

The gaming floor spans four decks with approximately 200 slot machines and several table games. The slots are a mix of older titles and some newer video machines—you won't find the absolute latest releases you'd see at a major property like BetMGM or Caesars, but there's enough variety to keep most players entertained. Denominations range from penny slots up to dollar machines, with a few higher-limit options tucked into corners.

Table games are where the Emerald Princess stands out for Georgia players. Because the state doesn't allow table games on land, this is your opportunity to play blackjack, craps, roulette, and three-card poker without driving to North Carolina or Florida. Blackjack minimums typically start at $10 or $15 depending on the cruise, with $25 minimums common on busier evening sailings. Craps usually has $10 or $15 minimums with 3x-4x-5x odds. Roulette offers both single-zero and double-zero wheels, though the single-zero table has a higher minimum.

The poker room hosts cash games and occasional tournaments. It's a small room compared to anything you'd find at a major casino, but the games are typically soft. You're playing against tourists and locals looking for entertainment, not grinders. If you're a decent player, this can be profitable territory, though the rake is standard for a small room.

Dining and Entertainment on Board

Your ticket includes access to the ship's buffet, which serves a basic but adequate spread. We're not talking gourmet dining here—think casino buffet standards: carved meats, salads, vegetables, and a dessert station. It's comparable to what you'd find at a mid-tier casino in a smaller market. The food is included in your cruise fare, which adds value when you factor in what a meal would cost at a land-based casino.

There's also a snack bar on the main deck if you want something quick between hands. Drinks are available at multiple bars throughout the ship. Cocktails are reasonably priced, and the bartenders pour decent drinks—better than the watered-down offerings at some budget casinos. Beer selection is standard domestic and a few imports; don't expect craft cocktails or an extensive wine list.

Entertainment beyond gaming includes occasional live bands on the top deck during evening cruises and a DJ on some nights. It's background entertainment more than a headline show. The outdoor deck areas offer views of the ocean and a place to step away from the gaming floor for fresh air—which can be valuable after a tough session at the tables.

Player Rewards and Promotions

The Emerald Princess operates a players club that tracks your play for rewards. Like most smaller operations, the comp system isn't as sophisticated as what you'd find at a major chain. Points earn you free or discounted cruises, buffet meals, and occasionally hotel discounts at partner properties in the Brunswick area. High-volume players might receive mailers for free cruise packages or bonus bets.

One notable promotion: new players can often get a match play coupon or free slot play when signing up for the players club. Ask at the player services desk when you board—they're usually generous with first-time visitors. The casino also runs blackjack and slot tournaments on select dates with prize pools ranging from $500 to a few thousand dollars.

Regular players report that the comp system is straightforward: play consistently, and the staff will take care of you. Pit bosses have discretion to authorize meals or cruise vouchers for players having a rough session. This personal touch is something larger casinos have largely lost—it's one advantage of a smaller operation where the staff recognizes faces.

Comparing to Land-Based Alternatives

Let's be realistic about what you're getting. The Emerald Princess is a 200-foot ship, not a resort casino. If you're coming from Atlanta expecting something comparable to a Las Vegas property or even a regional casino like those in Tunica or Biloxi, you'll be disappointed. The gaming floor is smaller, the amenities are limited, and the slot selection is dated.

However, for Georgia residents, the comparison isn't really Vegas—it's a five-hour drive each way to Cherokee, North Carolina, or a trip to Florida's seminole properties. Against those alternatives, the Emerald Princess offers a middle ground. You can drive to Brunswick from Atlanta in about five hours, gamble for a few hours, and drive back. Or stay overnight in one of the coastal hotels and make a weekend of it with some time on Jekyll Island or St. Simons.

Casino	Distance from Atlanta	Table Games	Accommodation
Emerald Princess	300 miles	Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker	None (day cruise)
Harrah's Cherokee	160 miles	Full selection	On-site hotel
Seminole Hard Rock Tampa	450 miles	Full selection	On-site hotel

For players in Savannah or Jacksonville, the drive is much shorter—under two hours—making the Emerald Princess a viable option for a casual gambling outing. The cruise format also adds a novelty factor. There's something different about playing blackjack while the ship rocks gently and you can step outside to see the ocean.

What Players Say About the Experience

Regular visitors highlight a few consistent points in reviews. On the positive side, the staff receives frequent praise for friendliness and attentiveness. Dealers are described as personable and helpful to newer players, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed compared to the sometimes intimidating vibe of larger casinos. Many players appreciate that the table limits remain accessible—this isn't a high-roller den pricing out casual gamblers.

Criticisms tend to focus on the ship's age and maintenance. The Emerald Princess II isn't new, and it shows in some areas. Carpet is worn, some slot machines are dated, and the decor hasn't been updated in years. Players coming from modern casinos might find it tired. Others complain about motion sickness—the ship is stable for its size, but if you're prone to seasickness, even mild rocking can be distracting.

Weather is another factor. The ship sails in most conditions, but rough seas will cancel or shorten cruises. The gaming floor can feel cramped on busy weekend sailings, especially around popular tables. If you're sensitive to crowds, weekday morning cruises tend to be significantly less crowded.

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