Casino boats reach international waters about an hour after leaving Hong Kong and there, can legally offer a full range of gaming amenities. It has been a boost for operators of the vessels, such as Success Universe Group, a 49-percent shareholder in Macau’s Ponte 16 casino, and Genting Hong Kong, which owns a string of gaming facilities in Asia. Boats have several advantages, namely that they operate tax-free and avoid the 39-percent levy imposed in Macau.
Although unable to offer the same range of amenities as Macau, boats provide entertainment, restaurants, as well as comfortable accommodation and gaming. Lower costs, less government scrutiny and slacker visa requirements are encouraging some Chinese gamblers to turn to the boats, which offer VIP action with the facility to take large bets. Hoffman Ma, Success Universe Deputy Chairman, commented: “The cruise ship can be a good substitute for mainland tourists.”