Casino Puerto Madero: a night of gambling in the heart of Buenos Aires

Some destinations feel unique as soon as you arrive. And the Puerto Madero Floating Casino It is one of them. We are not talking about an ordinary slot machine room, this is something else; we are talking about a couple of ships permanently anchored on the Río de la Plata, with the lights of the porteña city reflecting on the water and the scent of chance floating in the air.

As you step onto the walkway, you'll feel the transition from leaving the city noise behind to immersing yourself in the sharp sound of coins and the murmur of conversations that gradually envelop you. But here's the detail: it doesn't matter if you've come to spend without limits or if you just want to have a drink with a premium view; the mystique of the place is undeniable and you must come and experience it.

So, let's do this tour properly; here we'll tell you everything you need to know about this gem that has taken over Buenos Aires nights. Join us!

Between two waters: the context of the floating casino

To understand why the Puerto Madero Casino is unique, one must start with the essential; it is not built on solid ground. It consists of two ships moored in the South Dock of the port and they are known as the “Estrella de la Fortuna” and the “Princess”.

Its story began in 1999, when the Spanish company Cirsa won the concession to operate a floating casino in national waters, thereby managing to circumvent the gambling ban that Buenos Aires had at that time.

The first ship was launched on 8th October 1999 and seven years later, in January 2006, the Princess was added, which is dedicated exclusively to slot machines and electronic machines.

Nowadays, both vessels function as a single complex, as they are connected. Upon boarding, you can warm up your engines in the Estrella, across its four floors packed with gaming tables, roulette wheels or in the VIP lounge; then cross over to the Princess without stepping outside. 

Whether for tourists or locals seeking something distinctive and high-class, that pull between decks already has its charm. But this is merely a detail, as both ships were built in New Orleans in 1995, replicating the classic casino boats that plied the Mississippi in the late 19th century. A fact that adds to their appeal.

Dice and Card Night: The Gaming Offer

Right, now that we’ve covered a bit of history, let’s get down to business. It’s well known that the Puerto Madero Casino generates huge takings, as the two vessels combined have around 1,400 slot machines and over 120 gaming tables. These figures vary depending on the source (some put the numbers at 150 tables and 1,500 slots), but the bottom line is the same: there’s no shortage of ways to have fun here.

Meanwhile, if slots are your thing, the Princess is a good place to start, as it has state-of-the-art machines fitted with touchscreens, offering stakes to suit all budgets, from low amounts right up to much higher levels.

If you ask me, the best is in the variety of roulettes; you find loads here, both American and European, spread over both floors, each with its own vibe and that almost hypnotic motion of the ball spinning.

Similarly, blackjack has its place, with limits ranging from the most accessible to those that already demand a steady hand. Furthermore, there is also “Punto y Banca”, and on occasion craps tables appear, when the volume justifies it. 

As for the atmosphere, it's fair to say it's serious, but not overly rigid. It may not have all the glitz and glamour of Monte Carlo, but neither does it have the informality of a local neighbourhood lounge; you can tell they like to have a touch of distinction.

Madero Poker: the corner for those who know

For the most discerning, we have an ace up our sleeve that warrants special attention. On the third floor of the Princess operates the Madero Poker, an exclusive room with capacity for regular tournaments and cash game tables.

The venue boasts at least 11 poker tables and usually serves as a meeting point for the poker community, both local and international. The famous Texas Hold'em is played there in its various forms, along with some scheduled tournaments, such as the Madero Master Cup or the Madero Summer Cup, which attract players from all over the region equally.

Tournament buy-ins vary considerably; for example, in events like the NLH One Day, entry has started at 400 Argentinian pesos, while the Main Event of the Master Cup has reached up to 500 dollars.

The interesting thing is that you might come across everyone from casual players to sponsored professionals. At this point, the room takes on a different atmosphere, becoming quieter and more focused, making it the perfect place for those who prefer strategy to simply spinning the roulette wheel.

Food and drink and onboard services

Eating is also part of the plan, because, let's be honest, after a few hours among the hypnotic slot machines, cards, and bets, hunger is bound to appear.

Within the complex, there are two culinary offerings; on one hand, there's Color Resto Bar, more geared towards drinks, appetisers, and dishes to accompany good conversation. On the other, there's the buffet restaurant Pleno “Flavours of the World,”.

The best thing is that both are still open, serving their customers when most of the city is already asleep, and at three in the morning, that’s much appreciated.

There’s also a gourmet patisserie, as well as a few shops and several bars dotted around the ship where you can order a whisky on the rocks or a strong Fernet. This isn’t really the place for a day’s shopping, but it’s a great way to take your mind off things for a while before getting back to the action.

Outside the casino options

Now, if you prefer to step through the door and take advantage of what Puerto Madero offers, the options change up a level. A few minutes away is the restaurant Villegas Resto, a signature grill located at Alicia Moreau de Justo 1050.

This venue opened its doors in 2009 and specialises in ox cuts accompanied by an enormous wine cellar boasting over 1,600 labels. If it's your first time here, the tomahawk and mustang steak are a safe bet for your palate.

Afterwards is The Cabin, one of the most classic Buenos Aires steakhouses, where the meat arrives at the table no-nonsense, making it ideal for ending the night with something comforting, especially if luck decided to stay on the other side of the blackjack table.

Practical information to know

• Exact addressAv. Elvira Rawson de Dellepiane s/n, Puerto Madero, CABA (access via Dársena Sur, near Puente de la Mujer).
• TimetableIt remains open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. However, some internal services (like certain restaurants) may have set hours, so you should check in advance.
• Minimum age18 years old (ID will be requested at the entrance).
• Entrance feeAdmission is free.
• Car parkThe casino doesn't have its own covered car park, but there are several options nearby. Usually with premium rates.

Dress code? Let’s be clear: the Puerto Madero Casino, in particular, doesn’t require formal attire, although it does ban football shirts, flip-flops and swimwear. That said, the best option is to wear dark jeans, a shirt or polo shirt and closed-toe shoes. It’s not about the suit; the vibe is “smart casual” – in other words, smart but without a bow tie.

Tips for a premium night

1. Arrive early if you're going at the weekend, as Saturdays get very busy. If you want a roulette or blackjack table, the best time to come is between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
2. Sign up for the loyalty programme, as it gives you access to good promotions, discounts in the restaurants and the accumulation of points for playing.
3. Start the night at the Princess bar, as it has an outdoor terrace with river views. Grab a drink, take in the city lights, and get warmed up before you head to the tables to place your bets.
4. If you play poker and don't know Madero Poker, go on a weekday evening on a Tuesday or Wednesday, as the room is quieter and the dealers have more time to explain if you're a beginner.
5. Don’t forget to bring some cash; although there are cash machines inside, the fees are altas. Take only the money you’re prepared to spend and leave your cards at the hotel. This tip never fails (I know exactly why I’m telling you this).

Frequently asked questions

Is it possible to smoke inside?

No. For several years now, smoking has been prohibited in enclosed spaces in the City of Buenos Aires. But you can smoke in the outdoor areas designated at Princess.

Are there any live shows?

Yes. The casino programmes music shows and special events, especially at weekends. Check the calendar on their website.

Can I go alone, or is it better to go with someone?

Both options work. If you go alone, you concentrate better on the game, but with friends, the night becomes longer and more fun. If you have a date, the casino is a good idea, as long as they also like that atmosphere and, why not, wish you luck.

How much money do you recommend taking?

It depends on the player's profile. Yes, if you want a quiet night of slots and a few table games, $50 or $100 converted to pesos is enough. For more serious sessions at the blackjack or poker tables, then we're talking bigger figures.

Is the area dangerous at night?

Puerto Madero is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Buenos Aires, as it has private and public surveillance. The surroundings of the Puerto Madero Casino are well lit and busy until late. But it is always good to take precautions such as avoiding walking with your mobile phone in your hand and sticking to the main streets.

Useful links

• Official Casino Buenos Aires Website https://www.casinobuenosaires.com to check timetables, events and current promotions.
• Madero Poker https://www.maderopoker.com.ar Calendar of tournaments and results.
• Villegas Resto https://www.villegasresto.com.ar – Alicia Moreau de Justo 1050, Puerto Madero. Contact telephone number available on their website.
• The Cabin https://www.lacabanaparilla.com.ar – Alicia Moreau de Justo 388, Puerto Madero. Classic steakhouse for after the casino.

Buenos Aires nightlife has its iconic venues. The Colón Theatre, La Bombonera for football fans, the bars of Palermo… but the Floating Casino in Puerto Madero holds a special place of its own. It’s roulette, it’s poker, it’s the clinking sound of the slot machines. It’s also the sound of water lapping against the ship’s hull, a whisky in your hand and the city lit up in the background. You don’t have to be a die-hard gambler to understand why this place, with all its legal oddities and its history, remains a must-visit for anyone looking for a different kind of night out in Buenos Aires. Come aboard, take a seat at a table, and let the croupier spin the wheel. Then tell me how it went.