Passengers wishing to get their gambling fix while in Bermuda will now be able to do so without leaving the ship. Bermuda newspaper, The Royal Gazette, is reporting that Bermuda's government will allow cruise ships to operate their casinos while in port, along with bars and shops, a decision aimed at warding off competition from rival cruise destinations.
Bermuda's Premier and Tourism Minister, Ewart Brown, said ships would be allowed to open bars, shops and casinos after 10 p.m. while in port. In return, cruise lines would be required to contribute money to on-island activities.
The Opposition United Bermuda Party has since opposed the move saying it would serve as a gateway to making gambling legal on the island. Gambling has historically been a contentious subject in Bermuda.
Premier Brown has said, in reviewing cruise industry trends, Bermuda was losing an edge in attracting more cruise ships to call at the island, particularly smaller more premium ships.