I just returned from hosting the first ever Blackjack cruise. It was my wife and my first cruise ever, a WONDERFUL 8 night Mexician Riviera cruise. The tournaments were small, but a big success. For the four "Super-Mini" tournaments we had I gave away over $45,000 in cash prizes. I also offered Sit & Go tournaments for the players from $20 to $100 entries. The tournaments turned out several first time winners, which is always exciting. I think both the players and dealers had fun in the tournaments. I had some special dealers: The head of the original MIT blackjack team and main character in the book "Bringing down the House" Mickey Rosa and his wife along with tournament player Rick Swogger as my three dealers. We nickname Swog "Scruffy" after not shaving for the first 6 days...lol. After one of the tournaments Mickey hosted a small seminar (about 1 hour) for only $15. Since he charges around $850 per person for lessons back home I think everyone got a steal at this price and they all enjoyed the question and answer portion. The live blackjack at the casino on board wasn't the greatest game and had 9 playing spots, however they allowed mid-shoe entry that made up for it. I am already looking to book another cruise for next year at the request of all the players. I think I will shorten the trip to about five days with only two tournaments plus the Sit & Go events. This will make it easier for the players with real jobs and kids. Also I was asked to hold the cruise during the summer months. Hopefully you can join us for both the cruise and the tournament action next year. The final 5 hands for the "Harvey Bader" memorial tournament will be posted this week along with several pictures from the cruise.
