Florida's warm weather makes it a prime location for outdoor activities, especially those on the water. But when the sun goes down, things can really heat up. That’s why Fort Myers Beach casino boats are not only fun during the day but at night as well.
Fort Myers offers plenty of ways to gamble on a boat with gorgeous views of the Gulf of Mexico. Here are some of the best Fort Myers casino boats for your enjoyment.
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1. Virgin Creek Casino Cruise
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The first destination on our Fort Myers casino boats tour belongs to the Virgin Creek Casino Cruise. This casino boat has two locations, one in North Ft Myers, and the other in Cape Coral.
Both locations offer something special for everyone who rides their ships. The North Ft Myers casino boat sails every day and offers live poker, keno, bingo, and much more. You can also take dancing lessons or listen to live music while enjoying drinks.
This casino boat has two decks, enclosed air-conditioned seating with bars and food service, and open upper sundecks. It can hold up to 450 passengers and provides fantastic views of Estero Bay Wildlife Preserve and Sanibel Island.
Virgin Creek’s Cape Coral ship operates twice per day and offers slot machines, table games, and a full bar. If you get hungry, you can indulge in seafood and American cuisines while listening to live music performances.
You don’t have to pay for parking because both Fort Myers beach casinos have ample free parking space available for visitors. Their daily cruise duration ranges from four to six hours.
Live-Dealer Video Poker Games to Play Online - Editor's Pick2. Pure Florida Sightseeing & Sunset Eco-Tours
Pure Florida Sightseeing & Sunset Eco-Tours might not be considered among classic Fort Myers casino boats, but they still offer exciting experiences. You can see various species of birds, dolphins, manatees, and other creatures that inhabit Southwest Florida.
Their eco tours are suitable for all ages and last about two hours. You will learn many interesting facts related to local flora and fauna through audio-guided tours provided via a device you can borrow.
Jungle Cruise style sightseeing boat tours last one hour and run every two hours. You can bring your own refreshments, beer, and wine on board; glasses and ice are also provided.
If you want to experience something extra, book a private sunset charter with premium drinks and appetizers. Enjoy the beautiful sunset over the Gulf with your loved ones and capture unforgettable memories.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on board, except trained service animals. Pure Florida Sightseeing & Sunset Eco-Tours has ample free parking spaces available for visitors.
3. The Boundary Fort Myers Beach Casino Boat
The Boundary Fort Myers Beach is one of the largest casino boats in Southwest Florida. It has recently undergone a major renovation and now boasts 650 slots, electronic and live table games such as blackjack, craps, roulette, and more.
The casino offers the latest technology machines, including progressive jackpots, video reels, and poker. Professional dealers will assist you with any game you choose, whether you are a novice or an experienced player.
The vessel itself is incredibly spacious, providing ample room for guests to move around comfortably. There are two fully equipped lounges where you can relax and unwind between games.
The main gaming area is located on the lower level, while the upper deck offers stunning panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. Whether you’re playing slots, table games, or just enjoying the scenery, The Boundary Fort Myers Beach Casino Boat guarantees an unforgettable experience.
The ship departs three times a day from Bonita Springs and Lovers Key Park & Beach. During the four-and-a-half-hour voyage, you can enjoy delicious food and refreshing beverages at reasonable prices.
Things You Need To Know About Casino Bonuses And Free SpinsDon’t forget that a dress code isn’t required, but proper attire is appreciated. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets now and set sail for an enjoyable journey filled with excitement and entertainment!
4. Sally’s Dock Bar & Grill Casino Cruise
Sally’s Dock Bar & Grill Casino Cruise differs from the previously mentioned Fort Myers casino boats. Besides gambling, you can also enjoy fresh seafood while watching the sunset over Matanzas Pass.
Sally’s dock offers two casino boats: Sally 2 and Sally 3. Both boats are United States Coast Guard certified and can carry up to 148 passengers each. They sail every day, rain or shine.
The boats feature clean restrooms, an open deck, and a fully stocked bar. Sally 3 has slot machines and tables where you can play poker, blackjack, or roulette.
You don’t have to pay an admission fee. Instead, betting money is required, and you can do so on board.
Don’t miss out on Sally’s Dock Bar & Grill Casino Cruise for an unforgettable experience combining delicious food, breathtaking sunsets, and exciting gambling opportunities.
5. Smugglers Wake Catches No Fish
Smugglers Wake Catches No Fish may not be one of traditional Fort Myers casino boats, but it could be even better. It is the most unique way to explore the waters around San Carlos Bay and the Gulf of Mexico.
You can wakeboard, water ski, tubing, or cruise at no wake speed and enjoy the scenic views. With two master captains on staff, they can accommodate up to 45 people for scheduled trips, group outings, special events, sunset cruises, and more.
Kneeboarding, barefooting, and water skiing are also offered. Beginners and experts are welcome to join this fantastic adventure. For those seeking relaxation, cruising at a slow pace is the perfect choice.
Smugglers Wake Catches No Fish has been in operation since 1997 and takes pride in its excellent safety record and top-of-the-line equipment. All captains possess USCG Captain’s licenses and CPR/First Aid certifications.
Whether you’re looking for thrills or leisurely cruising, Smugglers Wake Catches No Fish is the premier destination for water sports enthusiasts visiting Fort Myers Beach.
How Gambling on a Boat in Fort Myers Beach Works
Gambling laws in Florida are quite different from most states. Due to a 1986 constitutional amendment, all forms of gambling are legal throughout the state, including Indian casinos, horse racing, the lottery, jai-alai, and pari-mutuel wagering. However, there is a catch.
All gambling establishments must be located on a boat or a body of water. This rule applies to all casinos in Fort Myers Beach and elsewhere in Florida.
Most casino boats in the region operate offshore, just beyond the state’s territorial limit. This technicality allows them to offer traditional casino games like slots and table games legally. Once the boat returns to shore, all winnings are considered taxable income, and applicable taxes must be paid.
It’s important to note that these regulations apply only within Florida state lines. If you plan to visit casinos in neighboring states, their specific gambling laws and regulations will apply.
Other Nearby Casino Options
Since Florida casino boats have limited gaming options compared to land-based casinos, you might consider alternative destinations. Luckily, several nearby states offer a variety of casino options. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Casinos in Alabama
Alabama has fewer casino options than its neighboring states. Currently, the state has 14 Indian casinos and two dog race tracks offering video poker machines. The minimum gambling age is 21 years old.
Creek Casinos
- Wind Creek Atmore
- Wind Creek Birmingham (formerly VictoryLand)
- Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery
- Wind Creek Wetumpka
Poarch Band of Creek Indians
- Creek Casino Wetumka
- Creek Indian General Commission
- Creek Indians of Alabama
- Creek Land Company, Inc.
- Wind Creek Atmore (Formerly Indian Lounge & Casino)
- Wind Creek Casino & Hotel Montgomery
- Wind Creek Hospitality
- Wind Creek State Tribal-State Gaming Compact
There is ongoing political debate about expanding gambling options, possibly leading to new casinos being built. Until then, Alabama’s existing casinos provide some entertainment for locals and tourists alike.
Casinos in Georgia
Georgia’s casino laws are somewhat restrictive. While commercial casinos are prohibited, certain exceptions exist. The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Casino Kingdom are two notable examples.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
- Gary Bitker
- Jim Allen
- Mariano G spelvenski
- Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida
- Ron Saunders
- Seminole Hard Rock Energy Drink
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino (Hollywood, Florida)
- Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa
- Seminole Tribe of Florida
- Seminole Gaming
Casino Kingdom
- Comlux Isaac Menahem
- Eldorado Gold Diamond Importers
- Gammon Group Limited
- Howard Gluck
- Marc Lesniak
- Michael Gutierrez
- Navegante Gaming Revenue Crop
- Payne Capital
- Tiger Gaming Ltd.
- Casino Kingdom
Georgia Lottery
- Coffee
- Georgia Lottery
- Mark White
- Ronald Reagan
- Ted Turner
In addition to these established casinos, efforts have been made to change Georgia’s constitution and allow other casinos to operate. However, these proposals have faced opposition and have not yet been successful.
As a result, Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino and Casino Kingdom remain the primary casino options for individuals residing in or visiting Georgia.
Casinos in Mississippi
Mississippi has a thriving casino industry, with over 25 casinos scattered along the Gulf Coast. These casinos offer a wide variety of games, including slots, table games, poker rooms, and high-stakes gambling.
Many of the casinos also feature live entertainment, fine dining restaurants, and luxurious accommodations. Some of the most popular casinos in Mississippi include Beau Rivage Resort & Casino, Harrah’s Gulf Coast, and Biloxi Bluffs Casino Resort.
Boomtown Casino
- David Wolfson
- Dennis F. Murphy Jr.
- Fountainebleau Development Company
- H. Fain Taylor III
- Isle of Capri Casinos
- Larry K. Ginn Sr.
- LeRoy T. Hoffarth
- Marine Finance
- Richard P. Lipstein
- Royal Casino & Resort
- Scott B. Wilson
- Soulville, Mississippi
- Spectrum Gaming Group
- Boomtown Casino (Natchez, Mississippi)
- Boomtown Casino (Bossier City, Louisiana)
- Boomtown Reno
Trop Casino
- Jeffery Simos
- Nick Mingione
- Tropical Gulf Casinos
- Trop Casino Greenville
- Trop Casino Madera
- Trop Casino Picayune
- Trop Casino Stevens
- Trop Casino (Mount Ida, Arkansas)
- Trop Casino (Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania)
- Trop Casino (Nanticoke, Pennsylvania)
- Trop Casino North Fredericksburg
- Trop Casino Point Place
- Trop Casino Shippensburg
- Trop Casino (Palm Springs, California)
- Trop Casino (Raleigh, North Carolina)
- Trop Casino (Dublin, California)
- Trop Casino (Wabash, Indiana)
- Trop Casino (Jackson, Tennessee)
- Trop Casino (Marietta, Ohio)
- Trop Casino (Ellisburg, Pennsylvania)
- Trop Casino (St. Roberts, Missouri)
- Trop Casino Greenville (Arkansas)
- Trop Casino Madera (California)
- Trop Casino Picayune (Mississippi)
- Trop Casino Stevens (Pennsylvania)
- Trop Casino North Fredericksburg (Virginia)
- Trop Casino Point Place (Ohio)
- Trop Casino Shippensburg (Pennsylvania)
- Trop Casino Dublin (California)
- Trop Casino Raleigh (North Carolina)
- Trop Casino Ellisburg (Pennsylvania)
- Trop Casino St. Roberts (Missouri)
- Trop Casino Jackon (Tennessee)
- Trop Casino Marietta (Ohio)
- Trop Casino Palm Springs (California)
- Trop Casino Wabash (Indiana)
- Trop Casino Wabash (Indiana)
- Tropicana Entertainment
- Tropical Gulf Casinos
The MS Coast Coliseum
- African Meeting Ground
- Biloxi, Mississippi
- Coast Coliseum
- Gary Chison, Sr.
- Harold P. Freeman
- Harrison County, Mississippi
- Hollywood Casino Bay St. Louis
- Hard Rock Hotel and Casino biloxi
- Harrah’s Gulf Coast
- IP Casino Resort Spa
- Isle of Capri Casino Karicks
- Keesler Air Force Base
- Lightsey Morris Jr.
- Lipman Brothers
- Lipman Company
- Lipman Enterprises
- Lipman Productions
- Lipman Theatrical
- Lucedale, Mississippi
- Marina Del Rey, California
- McRaven Tower
- Ocean Casino Resort
- Philip A. Goldstein
- Richard Addolorato
- RoyOMartin
- Sheraton Gulfport Hotel
With its vibrant casino scene, Mississippi offers plenty of entertainment options for anyone visiting the Gulf Coast.
Casinos in Georgia vs Florida
When it comes to choosing between Georgia and Florida for a casino vacation, the answer depends on your preferences. While Georgia has stricter gambling laws and fewer casino options, Florida offers a wider variety of land-based and boat casinos.
Here’s a quick comparison of the two states:
Availability of Land-Based Casinos: Florida has more land-based casinos spread across its major cities. On the other hand, Georgia doesn’t have any legal land-based casinos.
Variety of Games: Both states offer similar casino games such as slots, table games, and poker. However, Florida casinos tend to have a broader selection and higher stakes.
Atmosphere and Amenities: Florida casinos often come packed with amenities like luxury hotels, high-end dining, and entertainment venues. In contrast, Georgia casinos focus primarily on gambling.
Regulatory Environment: Florida’s casino regulatory environment is well-established, ensuring fair play and responsible gambling practices. Georgia’s proposed casino bills are still making their way through the legislative process.
Ultimately, Florida offers a more diverse and extensive casino experience. But for casual gamblers or those looking for a simpler setup, Georgia’s limited options might suffice. As always, gamble responsibly regardless of which state you choose.
Footnotes:
- “Seminole Hard Rock Energy Drink” refers to a brand of energy drink owned by the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.
- “Lipman Theatrical” refers to a division of Lipman Enterprises that produces live theatrical shows.
- “MS Coast Coliseum” is a multi-purpose arena and convention center in Biloxi, Mississippi.
Anthony is a sports writer for GamblingSites.com covering the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and more. He also covers other various topics such as entertainment, general sports betting tips, and more.
His favorite teams are the Chicago Bears, Bulls, Cubs, and Blackhawks. He also will be a temporary fan of any team if it means winning him bets.