Gambling laws are subject to change and not always straightforward. If you’re not sure about the local laws in your country of departure, make sure to check beforehand. In the United States, you need to be 12 miles off the coast, whereas in the UK, you need to have embarked on a journey into international waters.
Simply put, it depends on what country you departed from. The first thing law anyone who gambles in international waters should understand is when exactly this term applies. How Far Out Do You Need to Be to Gamble Legally? There are exceptions to this rule, such as when it comes within a certain distance of the coast of another country. Many laws can affect gambling at sea, but the one golden rule you should know right off the bat is this: any boat is considered an extension of the country under whose flag it sails unless it is currently in international waters. However, if you’re planning on gambling at sea, it’s essential to understand what laws still apply and how they affect your activities at the casino. One thing that makes cruise ships so popular with gamblers is how they can take advantage of international waters to slacken gambling restrictions.