Myrtle Beach Casino Cruise Fare Increases Likely Ahead

Attention, gamblers in Myrtle Beach! The Big M Casino boat, your favorite casino cruise, is poised to experience a fare hike as local authorities propose an increase in the per-passenger entry fee.

Currently docked in Little River, South Carolina, the Big M Casino is gearing up for changes that could affect all its aboard passengers. The Horry County Council is slated to adopt Ordinance 120-2024 during its upcoming meeting, which will allow casino vessels to remain under the county’s jurisdiction for extending their operations into international waters, where gambling is permitted.

Details on the Proposed Fee Increase

The existing ordinance permitting casino boats in Horry County is set to expire on February 5, 2025. While the extension of this ordinance for another ten years is promising news for the Big M Casino, it is expected to come at a steeper price for bettors.

Proposed Fare Schedule

Currently: $7 per passenger
From February 5 to March 31, 2025: $10 per passenger
Starting April 1, 2025: $15 per passenger
From January 1, 2030: $18 per passenger

This proposed increase corresponds to a significant rise in passenger fares, elevating costs by up to 61% over the next five years, something the Big M Casino has yet to officially comment on.

The Sole Casino Cruise Operator

The Big M Casino holds the distinction of being South Carolina’s only active casino cruise operator. The Big M Casino Ship II operates six days a week, offering both day and evening cruises:

Day cruises: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Evening cruises: 6 p.m. – 11 p.m.

With a boarding fee of $20 and $30 for Saturday nights, these tickets cover both the entry fee and local taxes.

The State of Gambling in South Carolina

Interestingly, South Carolina is one of the most gambling-restrictive states in the U.S., lacking commercial or tribal casinos, as well as sports betting and online gambling options. The only authorized gaming activity is the state-run lottery.

Since relocating to Myrtle Beach from Fort Myers Beach in 2005, the Big M Casino has been a popular choice for locals and visitors looking to enjoy some gaming. Onboard, guests can choose from 250 slot machines and eight live dealer tables featuring games like blackjack, roulette, Let It Ride, and Three-Card Poker.

While smoking is prohibited inside the casino, an outdoor patio is available for patrons, along with a menu featuring subs, wraps, snacks, and an array of alcoholic beverages.

Key Takeaways

The Big M Casino is the only casino cruise operator in South Carolina.
Projected fare increases over the next five years may significantly impact visitor costs.
The casino offers a range of gaming options while adhering to strict state gambling regulations.

Conclusion

The upcoming fare hikes for the Big M Casino cruise underscore the importance of staying informed about your entertainment expenses as a gambler. With changes on the horizon, South Carolinians can look forward to an evolving casino experience, albeit at a higher price point.