Casino boats in South Carolina were once the lifeblood of gambling in The Palmetto State. While not as popular as they used to be, there are still casino boats available for SC gamblers.
Keep reading to learn more about gambling cruises in SC, including their starting points, available games, and whether they are legal.
Top South Carolina Casino Boats Summary
Once upon a time, there were multiple gambling boats in South Carolina with casino games. Unfortunately, the SunCruz Aquasino closed its operations in 2014.
Likewise, the Carnival Sunshine Casino cruise ship no longer docks in Charleston, SC, after the cruise company ended its agreement with the South Carolina Port Authority.
On the bright side, The Big “M” Casino is still sailing out of Little River, SC. The port is located near Myrtle Beach, making it an ideal option for local gamblers and tourists visiting South Carolina.
Are Casino Cruises Legal in South Carolina?
Yes, casino cruises in South Carolina are legal since they carry players into the ocean and out of SC’s jurisdiction, where players can legally gamble despite The Palmetto State’s restrictive laws.
South Carolina is one of the few states that does not offer any form of regulated casino or sports gambling options. Land-based state-regulated gambling options are limited to bingo halls and the state lottery.
The lack of brick-and-mortar casinos incentivizes players to book gambling cruises in South Carolina. Still, their availability has declined in recent years. Luckily, players can access other offshore options, such as the best SC online casinos, to enjoy their favorite games.
The Big “M” Casino
- Address: 4491 Mineola Ave, Little River, SC 29566
- Phone: (843) 249-9811
- Number of Ships: 2
- Official Website
The Big “M” Casino remains South Carolina’s only active casino cruise operator in 2026. Located in Little River, just north of Myrtle Beach, the company offers two ships featuring slots, table games, food, and ocean views.
Both ships are operating again after Ship I underwent maintenance in 2025. Ship I currently sails on Tuesdays, while Ship II operates Wednesday through Sunday. Each offers daytime and evening cruises lasting five hours.
Most trips cost $20 per person, although Saturday evening cruises aboard Ship II cost $30. Guests must be at least 21 years old, and reservations are recommended.
The Big “M” offers a variety of bonus options, including a rewards program and a new member bonus. There are weekly promotions, too, including free entry for women during the weekly Ladies’ Nights events every Friday, as well as Senior’s Day on Thursday morning and evening, and Friday morning. There is also a Military Appreciation Free Casino Cruise.
If you want a similar experience online, DuckyLuck is a great option for gamblers in SC who cannot make the trip to Little River. It offers a wide selection of slots and table games. Also, its fantastic rewards program offers regular deposit bonuses, free spins, and more.
- Huge selection of banking methods
- Plenty of live dealer games
- Accepts US players
Ship I
Ship I is the smaller of The Big “M” Casino’s two gambling boats. After being dry-docked in July 2025, the ship has returned to the operator’s regular schedule.
The boat features electronic gambling machines and casino table games, including blackjack and roulette. The operator also offers poker-style games.
Ship I currently sails twice every Tuesday, with departures at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Each five-hour cruise costs $20 per person. All casino games require cash, although an ATM is available on board. Guests can also purchase food and drinks during the trip.
The ship offers:
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- 158 electronic gambling machines
- Blackjack
- Roulette
- Poker
The boat sails year-round on Tuesday, with two trips that day. It costs just $20 to sail, and you can add a meal for $10. All games on Ship I are cash-only. There is an ATM on board for players who need to replenish their bankrolls.
Ship II
Ship II is the larger of The Big “M” Casino’s two ships and offers the most sailing opportunities for South Carolina gamblers.
The ship features electronic gambling machines, including slots, alongside table games such as blackjack, roulette, Three Card Poker, and Let It Ride.
Ship II sails twice daily from Wednesday through Sunday, with departures at 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Standard cruises cost $20 per person, while Saturday evening trips cost $30.
Like Ship I, the casino accepts cash only for gambling. Guests can purchase food and drinks on board, and reservations are recommended to secure a spot.
South Carolina Casino Boats vs. South Carolina Online Casinos
There is only one casino cruise left in SC. On the bright side, The Big “M” Casino cruise is a great option for fans of slots, blackjack, Three Card poker, and Let it Ride. However, with only two boats available, the number of players the cruise can service is severely limited.
Luckily, you can enjoy your favorite casino games without fighting for a spot on The Big “M” Casino cruise. Safe offshore casinos that accept players from The Palmetto State allow you to enjoy your favorite games from anywhere in SC.
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