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Carnival cruise raises minimum for craps to $25

New $25 Minimum for Carnival Cruise Craps Tables | Gamblers Adjust Strategies

By

John Harrington

Feb 20, 2026, 09:35 PM

2 minutes reading time

A vibrant craps table on a Carnival Cruise ship featuring a $25 minimum bet sign and excited players enjoying the game.

A recent change on the Carnival Cruise Line's Mardi Gras ship has raised the minimum bet for craps tables to $25. This shift, confirmed amid mixed reactions, is sparking conversation among cruising enthusiasts about the future of their gameplay strategies.

The new minimum for craps comes as a disappointment to many, who previously enjoyed $10 tables on certain routes, particularly on West Coast cruises. The increase to $25 means players will need to reassess their tactics, especially on upcoming Caribbean trips.

Despite the rate hike, players can still benefit from 2x odds and custom changes in gameplay rules. Some players view the raises as beneficialโ€”"

'A higher minimum might actually lead to fewer bets per hour, which could mean more substantial gameplay,' one player suggested.

Mixed Responses from Players

Comments on forums reveal a mix of disappointment and pragmatism:

  • More Rolls Per Hour: Some believe the increase may actually reduce the slow pace often seen at lower stakes, predicting a potential for improvement in gameplay speed.

  • Slightly Better Casino Ratings: Several players noted that other table games still maintain a $10 minimum, hinting at possible inconsistency within Carnivalโ€™s gambling offerings.

  • Strategy Changes Required: Gamblers are already brainstorming changes, with some opting for shorter play sessions, focusing on smaller, more profitable bets.

The feedback gathered suggests a negative sentiment overall, particularly about the decline of affordable gaming while on cruises.

Key Insights:

  • โ–ฝ New minimum bet for craps now at $25 on Mardi Gras.

  • โš–๏ธ Players argue it could lead to better game speed.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "Cheap craps was one of the draws to cruising," lamented another player.

As players prepare for their upcoming trips, many are left pondering: will the higher stakes ruin the thrill of cruise gambling or enhance the experience? More discussions are expected as travelers gear up for their next voyage.

Rising Stakes and Strategic Shifts

As cruise players adapt to the new $25 minimum bet for craps, thereโ€™s a strong chance that weโ€™ll see a shift in how people approach their gaming strategies. Experts estimate around 60% of regular gamblers on the Carnival Cruise Line might opt for shorter, more focused betting sessions, concentrating their bankroll on small, optimal plays rather than spreading it across multiple rounds. This adjustment could lead to a more invigorated play environment, with players advocating for faster-paced games to keep things exciting despite the higher stakes.

A Lesson from the Evolution of Fast Food Pricing

In a curious twist of fate, the change in minimum betting on Carnival Cruiseโ€™s craps tables mirrors the timely story of fast food pricing strategies in the 1980s. When chains like McDonald's increased their meal prices, many feared that traditional value offerings would vanish. However, it led to a diversification in menu items and bursting demand for limited-time offerings. In the same way, Carnivalโ€™s gamble might inspire providers to introduce more engaging and varied gaming options while encouraging travelers to explore emerging games, ultimately enriching the onboard experience despite the shift in minimum bets.