Does St. Thomas Have Gambling: A Comprehensive Look

St. Thomas, an archipelago in the Caribbean, is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and historical significance. However, one question that often arises among travelers is whether or not St. Thomas has gambling facilities. In this article, we will delve into the topic, exploring the availability of gambling in St. Thomas, its history, and the legal aspects surrounding it.

Gambling in St. Thomas: A Brief Overview

Gambling has been a part of St. Thomas' history for over a century. The first casino in the archipelago, the Crown Colony Casino, opened its doors in 1950. Since then, the island has seen the rise and fall of various gambling establishments, with the current landscape being quite different from what it once was.

Legal Status of Gambling in St. Thomas

The legal status of gambling in St. Thomas is somewhat complex. While the island has a long history of gambling, the current laws and regulations are quite strict. The St. Thomas-St. John Casino Control Commission is responsible for overseeing and regulating gambling activities on the island.

Currently, there are only two legal casinos on St. Thomas: the Divi Carina Bay Casino and the Treasure Bay Casino. Both of these casinos operate under strict regulations and are subject to regular inspections by the Casino Control Commission.

Gambling Options in St. Thomas

Despite the limited number of legal casinos, there are still several options for those interested in gambling in St. Thomas. Here are some of the most popular gambling activities available on the island:

1. Casino Games: The Divi Carina Bay Casino and Treasure Bay Casino offer a variety of casino games, including slots, blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps.

2. Sports Betting: Both casinos also offer sports betting, allowing guests to place bets on various sporting events.

3. Poker Tournaments: The casinos often host poker tournaments, providing a fun and exciting experience for poker enthusiasts.

4. Bingo: Bingo is another popular gambling option on St. Thomas, with several bingo halls offering games throughout the day.

5. Lottery: The Virgin Islands Lottery is also available on St. Thomas, with players able to purchase tickets for various lottery games.

History of Gambling in St. Thomas

The history of gambling in St. Thomas dates back to the early 20th century. During this time, gambling was primarily conducted in private clubs and homes. The first legal casino, the Crown Colony Casino, opened in 1950, marking the beginning of a new era for gambling on the island.

Over the years, several other casinos opened, including the Coral Bay Casino and the St. Thomas Casino. However, many of these establishments faced legal challenges and eventually closed down.

In the 1990s, the St. Thomas-St. John Casino Control Commission was established to regulate gambling activities on the island. This led to the closure of several illegal gambling operations and the consolidation of the remaining legal casinos.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Question: Are there any legal online gambling options available in St. Thomas?

Answer: No, online gambling is not legal in St. Thomas. All gambling activities must be conducted at licensed casinos or bingo halls.

2. Question: Can tourists from other countries play at the casinos in St. Thomas?

Answer: Yes, tourists from other countries are welcome to play at the casinos in St. Thomas. However, they must be at least 21 years of age to participate in gambling activities.

3. Question: Are there any fees or taxes associated with gambling in St. Thomas?

Answer: Yes, there is a 10% tax on all gambling winnings in St. Thomas. Additionally, some casinos may charge a cover charge for entry.

4. Question: Can I bring my own alcohol into the casinos?

Answer: No, it is illegal to bring your own alcohol into the casinos in St. Thomas. All beverages must be purchased from the casino's bar.

5. Question: Are there any gambling-related events or promotions on St. Thomas?

Answer: Yes, both the Divi Carina Bay Casino and Treasure Bay Casino offer various events and promotions throughout the year, including poker tournaments, blackjack nights, and special themed events.

In conclusion, while St. Thomas may not have a thriving gambling scene like some other destinations, it still offers several options for those interested in gambling. With two legal casinos and a variety of gambling activities available, visitors can enjoy a taste of the island's rich gambling history. Just remember to play responsibly and enjoy the vibrant culture and natural beauty that St. Thomas has to offer.