Royal Caribbean Expands Smoke-Free Casinos Across Fleet
Royal Caribbean is upgrading its onboard casinos, expanding smoke-free areas and increasing overall gaming space to meet growing passenger demand.
The latest addition is a new non-smoking casino aboard Radiance of the Seas, showing that the shift is not limited to the cruise line’s newest and largest ships.
Following a recent dry dock, Radiance of the Seas debuted a dedicated smoke-free casino, replacing the former Quill and Compass Pub.
The renovation expands slot and table game offerings while aligning with Royal Caribbean’s broader strategy of modernizing its casino spaces.
Smoke-Free Spaces Grow Across Fleet
Passengers on the ship’s post-renovation voyage reported that the new non-smoking casino connects to the main smoking casino but is separated by a hallway, creating a clearly defined space.
The area includes a bar, slot machines and several tables, offering guests an alternative to traditional cruise ship casinos where smoking is typically permitted.
Royal Caribbean first introduced its smoke-free casino concept on Wonder of the Seas in 2022.
Since then, the cruise line has gradually expanded the concept, particularly on Oasis Class ships carrying more than 5,000 passengers.
“Royal Caribbean’s expansion of smoke-free casinos shows how onboard gambling has evolved from a side attraction into a central revenue driver, reshaping ship design and passenger expectations across the fleet.”
The addition to Radiance of the Seas - originally launched in 2001 - signals the initiative is now being implemented fleet-wide.
The expansion coincides with the debut of larger Icon Class ships, designed to accommodate roughly 5,600 guests and requiring expanded gaming areas to meet rising demand.
Royal Caribbean also plans to unveil its first two-story casino aboard Legend of the Seas this year, aiming to recreate a land-based casino atmosphere at sea - similar to the immersive environments found at the best online casinos.
Onboard Gaming Becomes Revenue Driver
Casino growth extends beyond Radiance of the Seas as part of Royal Caribbean’s Royal Amplified refit program.
In 2026, several vessels will undergo major refurbishments. Ovation of the Seas will receive an expanded casino, refreshed pool deck, new dining venues and upgraded suites before beginning its Alaska season.
Harmony of the Seas is also scheduled for a major overhaul ahead of its Mediterranean sailings from Barcelona, featuring what is described as the largest Casino Royale at sea.
While many passengers welcome smoke-free spaces, some have raised concerns about having to pass through smoking sections to reach non-smoking areas.
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Nevertheless, the broader strategy reflects the increasing importance of casino revenue to cruise operators.
The evolution of onboard gambling mirrors wider industry trends, as gaming becomes a central part of the cruise experience rather than a secondary amenity.
Much like the popularity of the best online slots in digital markets, demand for accessible, varied gaming options continues to shape how operators design entertainment spaces.
As passenger expectations shift, Royal Caribbean is blending land-based casino appeal with the cruise lifestyle, expanding smoke-free options and diversifying gaming across ships of all sizes.
