Cayman Islands Considers Permitting Casino Operations for Docked Cruise Ships

^{Minister of Tourism and Ports for the Cayman Islands, Kenneth Bryan, believes his cruise ship casino initiative can revive George Town. (Image: Casinos.com)}

The Cayman Islands have long been known as a tax exile where superyachts of the rich and famous rock up to enjoy everything the islands have to offer.  

There are no casinos currently permitted on the islands, but now there may be an opportunity for the cruise ships entering Cayman waters to open casinos onboard. Initiative aims to extend stays and overnight berthing in George Town.

Main Aims of the Proposals

• Allowing cruise ships to open casinos in Cayman waters to encourage overnight stays.
• Development of a new cruise berth to be voted on in national referendum.
• Casinos would only serve cruise passengers, with no local access to onboard gambling.

Brainchild of Minister for Tourism

The incentive has been suggested by Kenneth Bryan, Minister of Tourism and Ports for the Cayman Islands.  

Under the proposal, cruise ships moored in the Cayman Islands would be allowed to keep their onboard casinos open. The decision is dependent on a national referendum, where approval for a cruise berthing pier is being sought.

It is the view of the Minister that the change in the law could revitalise George Town’s economy, and casinos are known to draw visitors and boost local business.

Talks Already Taken Place With Cruise Ship Operators 

It is understood that discussions have already taken place with cruise ship operators. As well as being able to attend the casino, passengers would get to explore the local area, making use of the newly constructed cruiser berthing pier.  

It has been made clear that gambling would only be available to cruise ship passengers, policed using electronic devices.  

Proponents of the cruise berth, like former legislator Ellio Solomon and the Association for the Advancement of Cruise Tourism, have cautiously welcomed the idea, recognising its potential economic benefits.