On a Carnival cruise in 2026, drinks in the casino are generally not free unless you have reached a specific "Player Club" status or are part of the "Drinks On Us!" program. To qualify for complimentary cocktails, beer, wine, and sodas while playing, you must typically earn a set number of casino points on your Sail & Sign card during your current voyage (usually 1,000 to 1,500 points depending on the ship and itinerary). Once this threshold is met, the casino host will activate the benefit, allowing you to order drinks from the casino bar menu for free as long as you are actively seated and playing at a table or slot machine. Some high-tier "Premier" or "Ultra" casino offer bookings may include "free drinks everywhere" as a perk, but for the standard guest, you should expect to pay for your beverages unless you are a frequent player who has put in significant "table time."