Sports betting is completely illegal in the Cayman Islands under the comprehensive gambling prohibition established by the Gambling Act of 1964. This legislation bans all forms of gambling activities, including sports wagering, for both residents and tourists throughout the territory (1). The law was originally enacted to protect the community from gambling-related social problems and maintains strict enforcement against any form of organized betting operations.
The Cayman Islands government has consistently strengthened its anti-gambling stance over the decades, with recent amendments significantly increasing penalties for gambling offenses. Unlike many Caribbean territories that have embraced regulated gaming industries, the Cayman Islands maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward all forms of wagering, including online sports betting platforms (2). Even cruise ships with onboard casinos are prohibited from operating their gaming facilities while docked in Caymanian ports or territorial waters.
"There is a significant amount of serious crime associated with illegal gambling in the Cayman Islands, including assaults, robberies, intimidation, and more recently there has been a related murder."
Recent legislative changes have dramatically increased penalties for gambling violations, with maximum fines rising from $400 to $10,000 and prison sentences extending from one year to four years. The government has justified these harsh penalties by citing the connection between illegal gambling operations and violent crime, including armed robberies and murder cases linked to underground betting establishments. Despite ongoing public discussion about potential legal alternatives like a national lottery, the current administration maintains its strict prohibition on all forms of sports betting and gambling activities.
Source:
https://caymannewsservice.com/2022/11/fines-and-jail-time-soar-for-illegal-gambling/
https://mcgrathtonner.com/archives/847
Last updated: 15-09-2025 Disclaimer: This article does not provide legal advice. If you need legal advice, please contact an attorney directly.
