Staying Ahead of The Game

Gaming continues to be a massive drawcard for the Wild Coast Sun, as its casino enters a new era under the stewardship of industry stalwart Mark Ferguson.

Wild Coast Sun has always been renowned for its outstanding gaming offerings, and even though there are now a host of competitors in its KwaZulu-Natal catchment area, its fabled casino – one of the oldest in Southern Africa – remains as robust as ever. 

Gaming Manager Mark Ferguson, an “old industry dog with gaming in the blood” in his second stint at Wild Coast Sun after joining Sun International in 1989, is bullish about the casino’s future.

“We’re doing exceptionally well under the circumstances, with 80-100% occupancy rates. This is down to the unbelievable product we have. We allow our patrons to escape the hustle and bustle of the city – we’re just two hours out of Durban on a good road. And with our fantastic location on the beach, it’s an easy sell. We’re buzzing!” he says. 

The casino features 550 slot machines in various denominations and manufacturer types, alongside 18 poker, blackjack, roulette, and baccarat tables on the main floor and exclusive Salon Privé areas.

Ferguson, who grew up in nearby Margate and schooled in Port Shepstone, attributes the success of gaming operations to the efforts of a strong technical and marketing teams, the experience to deal with complaints in a positive manner, and stringent COVID-19 measures.

The human side of gaming remains a paramount concern for Wild Coast Sun going forward. And with the resort’s 40th birthday looming, it is a busy period filled with opportunity, says Ferguson.

“Gaming dominates here – the appetite is enormous. Some 80% of our revenue is from gaming. The Big 40 is a huge milestone. We’re giving away R14 million in cash and prizes, including a Ford Mustang, as part of the birthday celebrations. We also have a spin-to-win promotion with R1 million on the line, along with daily mysteries and jackpots all the way through to December,” he says.

The casino, which was recently granted a 20-year gaming licence extension, is also set to continue hosting its wildly popular Thunee tournaments, which regularly attract more than 250 players.

Ultimately, the plan is to have guests and players gain maximum enjoyment from the full beach resort experience.

“Above all, have fun. If you’re not after entertainment, you need to reconsider your reasons for visiting. And it’s not all about gaming. There is so much more to do. Come over and enjoy the resort, with all its attractions and activities!” urges Ferguson.