We are sailing out of Galveston so I wonder if anyone knows how they do it there. We are so excited . Additionally, you will once again be the beneficiary of a reserved time to go ashore; also included with this final perk. If no one offers this service, be sure to ask! Can't forget the wine! Weve always enjoyed this luncheon. The Reality of Royal Caribbean and Carnival Marijuana Policies. The priority for tendering is largely useless since Royal Caribbean ships rarely ever tender, thanks to more and more ports having piers. 1 hour ago, madoris said: I have a 4 day cruise booked for nov. , the price for the key $36.99 per day. The Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas, which departed from Brisbane two weeks ago, halted its course after the incident. This also means that you get to save on your Wi-Fi costs as well! *Please see all applicable Terms & Conditions for Promotions, Priority access during The Key designated arrival time (to be communicated via email). You will get an email with instructions, usually anyone with the Key can arrive between 11:00-11:30 no matter what your boarding time is. Have you ever wished you could have many of the perks that suite guests enjoy on Royal Caribbean without having to pay for a suite? Unfortunately, the private times at attractions were limited and at inconvenient times. At some ports of call, a small boat (or tender) will carry passengers to and from the port. I did not find that the time was convenient and I do not know how many people showed up. Select from chef-prepared VIP Key favorite dishes, egg and griddle creations, several sides, cereals or continental choices. Since the program began in 2018, passengers have reported paying anywhere from $19.99 to over $35 per person per day. You'll be able to stream or download movies and music, or make FaceTime or Skype calls on the ship and on RCI's private island CocoCay. Your previous content has been restored. No, I bought it, mainly to cut the time I will spend on lines, for back and knees. You could book the cheapest inside guarantee stateroom, but have access to lots of the benefits that suite and high-level loyalty members enjoy. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-mobile-leaderboard-2','ezslot_19',676,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-mobile-leaderboard-2-0');Boarding for Key members usually begins around 10:30 AM, so if you want to be among the first to get on board the ship, plan to arrive a bit before this time to check in. These keys indicate where and when you have access to places and events. Probably not a terrific idea when traveling with children. We are so excited and can't wait to board. But information emailed to us just a few short days before instructed us to arrive early. Im Louise. Passengers with The Key are able to sit in a VIP seating area for many shows, including those in the main theater, Aqua Theater, Studio B, and Two70. don't know what your cabin category is but if in a suite, you really don't need key if you want to board early. Some are ship or itinerary specific; and others are specific to the port of embarkation. If not, just leave blank, watch the Royal Caribbean app for when check-in windows will become available to book. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[336,280],'shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_9',602,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');Although the menu offerings for the new exclusive lunch are elevated compared to complimentary lunch menus, RCI no longer offers the chance for Key members to enjoy the ambiance of lunch at Chops (a benefit that normally costs $22.95 per person). If you purchased the program on a previous RCI cruise, be sure to carefully read the updated explanations of each perk listed below before you buy it for your next sailing. If so, what kind? At tender ports, where the ship ferries passengers to shore using smaller boats, Key members can take advantage of priority boarding when going ashore. Cruise terminals, as we learned during the pandemic, are . Perhaps they weren't so strict in the past, but due to COVID-19 safe distancing measures, this is religiously enforced now. Im a wife, a mom, a crafter, a Disney fan, and a french fry connoisseur. Members who have a high-status level in Royal Caribbeans Crown & Anchor Society loyalty program automatically enjoy many VIP benefits. We much preferred this meal instead of fighting our way through the buffet along with every other passenger onboard the ship. you still select a boarding time at check in but a couple weeks before the cruise you will get an email that tells you you can board with the Key at (usually 11:30 after suite guests) or keep your scheduled time. What to Know Before Your Cruise | Royal Caribbean Cruises Lets break the benefits down by order in which youll probably use them. And, it is included in the price of The Key as follows: one online package per paying guest on one device. You cannot paste images directly. The menu featured everything from an Express Breakfast for those in a hurry to Steak and Eggs for those who want to take a leisurely approach to their last meal onboard. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. This letter will list updated information about reserved hours for activities and info about reservations for show. There is no priority queue in the ART test area, for Singapore. For an extra price per day/per person, passengers can purchase The Key to enjoy nicer extras before, during and at the end of the cruise. Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, the lunch by Chops during embarkation day (this way underwhelming), luggage drop off at main dining room during embarkation day, Room service (according to the letter this was free), Priority Time at activities- these were at 9am, which is not a time that I normally wear a bathing suit to ride some waves. For this reason, you should buy it early since they can sell out for any given itinerary. There are several reasons cruise lines offer a list of add-ons to passengers. ** Carry-on luggage drop-off service is limited to two pieces per guest and can weigh no more than 25 pounds per carry-on. Royal Caribbean does set some limits with this perk. What's "The Key? While you may have to adjust your schedule around this, it will be worth it for the kids. However, this benefit has recently changed. We are headed out on the Oasis of the Seas from Miami on Sunday. On debarkation day, enjoy a private la carte breakfast and choice departure. Frankly, you will probably get through quicker in a regular line than the Key line. Rather than queuing for (possibly) hours, you will be taken to an exclusive area reserved for Key Guests, loyalty program members and those who booked suites. Look for signs in the cruise terminal on embarkation day and around the ship, or let a crew member know that you have The Key to take advantage of your benefits. There are a number of posts from the past 6 months discussing benefits of The Key. Why would someone want to drop their carry-on luggage off at The Key location? (Family plans are available at a discount for additional devices.). The Key program was first introduced in 2018, and this package add-on must be purchased prior to boarding via Royal Caribbean. The Voom Surf n Stream is included. Purchasing the extras that come with this program can be added to any number of other add-ons to create just the right cruising experience for you and your family. A relaxed and carefree way to end a memorable vacation at sea. Booking of the Key Program is non-refundable if YOU want to cancel it. You still have to do online check in, I get that part, but if I wanted to arrive early and my check in time is later, does the key (or say suite access) allow me arrive early because of the benefit? 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Special Event: Q&A with Rudi Schreiner, President, Co-Founder & Co-Owner - AmaWaterways River Cruises, Q&A with Avoya Travel: Learn How to Turn Your Passion into Success by Becoming an Independent Travel Advisor. you still select a boarding time at check in but a couple weeks before the cruise you will get an email that tells you you can board with the Key at (usually 11:30 after suite guests) or keep your scheduled time. Our next VIP perk is another time saver. Lets dive in. Once you've done these things, sit back and enjoy your cruise! Also, think about the cost of excursions. Internet that I'd otherwise pay for one device. Please Note: The Key may not be available during all sailings, and some amenities/benefits may vary by ship and destination, and may be subject to change without notice. Arguably the most valuable perk included with the program, unlimited VOOM packages normally go for $17.99 per day for one device when purchased separately. But our sailing wasnt taking reservations for shows at all, so there was lots of confusion among Key Guests about this. Carryon has the things I absolutely need to survive just in case my other portered luggage goes swimming, or on a different ship than me for some reason. I see that with The Key, the boarding time is between 11:30-12:30. Flying Wish Paper: How To Make Your Own With Things You Already Have! I haven't seen the Key on sale in months for any of the sailings. Royal Caribbean ; Roll Calls ; Voyager of the Seas Roll Calls ; Voyager of the Seas - Jun 12, 2023 - Jun 17, 2023 (5 Night Western Caribbean) . Yes, you can select either time to enter I had The key for my Anthem sailing last week out of Bayonne. Embarkation day is here, and you arrived early at the terminal port, excited to set sail on your cruise vacation. The VOOM family plans come with a significant discount if youre purchasing for three or more devices, so it may be cheaper to just buy the WiFi. Im Carrie Ann, the writer behind Should Be Cruising. Enjoy! Don't forget you have to buy The Key for all guests in the room over the age of 6, whether they will use all the benefits or not. I could see the benefit of stuff arriving at room open rather than say 7 pm. On my canceled October 2020 repositioning cruise aboard Brilliance of the Seas, RCI was running a 45% off sale. RCI currently offers The Key on all sailings on all ships except for Quantum of the Seas, Majesty of the Seas, and Voyager of the Seas. Even if you have an earlier time, still use the key lines. Breakfast room service is likely the most beneficial time to use room service, but there are so many easy grab and go breakfast options that I think in general, the idea of having room service is better than the actual thing. This benefit came in SUPER handy with the kids. Key members can drop those bags off with less worry about damage from rough handling. November 15, 2022 in Royal Caribbean Discussion. When I first heard about this service, I thought it was an odd perk to offer. RCI cruisers who purchase The Key can enjoy expedited check-in, and are able to board the ship before the general boarding begins. Whether you need to communicate with home or you just want to use social media while youre onboard, its pretty likely that youre going to purchase an internet package during your cruise. Guests could choose an appetizer, an entree, a side, and a dessert. They may need something from it between porter drop off and Key drop off. Unfortunately, on our cruise the information we were given prior to boarding as to the location of where to leave our luggage was incorrect. The Key program is Royal Caribbean's initiative to give guests access to premier and exclusive cruise services and activities while on board for a small additional fee. Since you have carefully chosen your favorite vessel, you may already know the details. Key guests still have to make their way to the port terminal and through security just like everyone else. Rock climbing was also at 9am. On the other hand, the only time I say its totally okay to arrive super early to port is if you have one of the first check-in times. Looking for more travel content? Offerings usually include hot items like steak & eggs, crab Benedict, French toast, pancakes, and eggs made to order. If guests are not able to make the early access window, Royal Caribbean says they should arrive within their appointment time and will receive priority access into the terminal. There is currently no special seating in nightclubs and other smaller gathering event spaces. What is The Key Program? | Royal Caribbean Cruises We got really lucky on the Allure last fall where the Key was $16.99 pp so we got it. Key guests are NOT exempt from general boarding requirements like Covid vaccinations or negative Covid tests. You will get an email with instructions, usually anyone with the Key can arrive between 11:00-11:30 no matter what your boarding time is. Paste as plain text instead, don't know what your cabin category is but if in a suite, you really don't need key if you want to board early. You could book a full suite, which is way out of the price range of the average cruiser. *, Carry-on bag drop off with delivery to your stateroom. But having tried The Key before and after the cruise industry shutdown of 2020/2021, I do not think it is worthwhile for most people simply because the benefits look better on paper than they are in practice. Then, you can enjoy a private embarkation day welcome lunch rather than bustling around with the throngs of people learning their way around the ship. Once purchased, you will see a special image of a key on your SeaPass when you check-in for boarding. Is the Royal Caribbean Key Program a must-do or a hard pass for your next cruise? Check the specific adventures on your ship to see what and how many of these capture your interest. The Key on Royal Caribbean is a for-a-fee program offering priority boarding, private hours at onboard activities, preferred theater seating, and more. You get lots of great perks throughout your cruise for the cost of one, inexpensive excursion. What are the Benefits of The Key Program? | Royal Caribbean Cruises (3:46 p.m. EDT) -- Royal Caribbean is reportedly bringing back one of its most popular pre-cruise purchases: a priority access program known as The Key. What did you think of the perks? Your bags will be tagged and whisked away into your stateroom (rather than left in the hallway hours later). What are the benefits of The Key program? That said, it's not worth it to me at full price. What we did find was that the meal was quite good. For a daily fee (paid in advance of sailing) cruisers who join the program will have access to several exclusive perks throughout their cruise vacation. When you receive your SeaPass card, you should see a small decal on the front indicating that youre a Key member. Luggage dropped with the porters curbside can arrive to room as late at 7pm, and there's a greater chance it's mishandled or misdelivered. There is a wide variety of entertainment options to enjoy during your time at sea. 20% off at all specialty restaurants, when you make the reservation on Day 1 of the sailing. Activities like the FlowRider, the rock climbing wall, water slides, and such often involves SUPER long lines, and cruisers only get to experience them once or twice during their open hours. You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. If high-speed Internet access is important for you and your family, VOOM Surf & Stream will be the key to keeping everyone happy. Royal Caribbean offered The Key for a few years, but then suspended it as cruise ships began restart in 2021. Againcrowds, queues and waiting. Pricing for The Key varies by itinerary. Whether you cruise multiple times per year or you're new to cruising, the goal of Royal Caribbean Blog is for it to bea useful resource for keeping up to date with what's new and exciting with Royal Caribbean. We definitely feel like the other benefits of reserved hours at attractions, reserved seating for shows, and the priority access at the terminal are without a doubt worth the additional $18. Lunch on Day 2 for ships sailing from Seward or Vancouver. In addition, with multi-device internet plans, the Key doesn't scale to families or larger groups if internet is always purchased. Janespup, March 6, 2022 in Royal Caribbean International. I couldnt imagine why anyone would carry on a bag, only to check it soon after boarding! You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. The Key - Royal Caribbean International - Cruise Critic Community Royal Caribbean recommends arriving to the terminal no later than11:30 AMfor you to have enough time to enjoy lunch with us! I will say The Key has had the same security check point as the Suite guests and handicapped (and Pinnacle) and that line always seems to be super slow moving so eyeball the other lines before deciding which one to stand on. We even had an entire Key Program booking canceled and our money refunded to us before sailing with no explanation. Join Sean and S. One note about this perk: It only applies in one direction from the ship to the shore. definitely. It is not like the drinks package or an excursion where you can just add it once youre onboard. Crew delivers your bags to your stateroom and leaves them in the roomnot outside your door like regular checked luggage. Another Overbooked Oasis-Class Royal Caribbean Ship, Royal Caribbean Changes Itinerary for First New Homeport Cruise, Refurbished Carnival Cruise Ship Completes Costa-Inspired Livery. Here are some examples: The only perk that is truly unobtainable on your own is the ability todrop off your carry-on luggage on embarkation day. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached, or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Royal Caribbean Blog. Frequently asked questions about The Key on RCI. Final Notes on Royal Caribbean - The Key The Basics of Royal Caribbean - The Key This cruise line's optional add-on called The Key is a relatively new program. The Key program is controversial among some high-level Crown & Anchor members. Royal Caribbean Crown and Anchor Society What You Need to Know.
How To Date A St Dupont Lighter,
Chris Phillips Just Develop It Net Worth,
Narcissistic Mother Quiz,
Articles R
