Gambling in port

Lawmakers have cleared the way for visiting cruise ships to keep their casinos open while in port. The green light came early on Thursday when Members of Parliament passed the Cruise Ship (Casino) Act 2013 in the House of Assembly. Tourism and Transport Minister Shawn said the concession, allowing on-board casinos to operate between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., would ensure Bermuda remained competitive as a cruise destination. He said such a move would be economically beneificial to both the cruise companies, which would increase their on-board revenue, and the island, which would collect license fees. License fees will range from US$75,000 to $180,000 per season for ships making 15 or more voyages to the island, and $5,000 to $12,000 for 14 trips or fewer.  Ships with a capacity below 2,000 passengers will get free licensing.

Courtesy: www.cananewsonline.com