Bradley Hiemstra if it was a little more then the standard internet price per day, I’d say more peole would buy. But for a 7/8 day, YOURE talking almost $200 PER PERSON. that’s steep.
The Key Pro’s: Getting on the ship early with the Diamond passages etc. Yes it works. But only if you are there before they start boarding. If not, then you just get on with everyone else.- Going to Chops Grill on the first day (they have added Jamie’s Italian now). - Breakfast on disembarkation day is great. (what they have taken away is the special disembarkation all the way off the ship though security). And the Voom WiFi. The Key Con’s: Special times for activates onboard. These are on different days and different times. This must be well planed with the shore excursions if you want to get the full use from them has you will need to get off at the port later or come back early to do some of them because of the time they have set for them. - VIP at the port. You do have priority disembarkation when getting off at the ports. BUT….. they only have one line for this. So unless you are there early. and at the front. You get off with everyone else. They should have 2 lines for this like at airports. - VIP seating at the shows. The seats are not the best. A lot of people just go 10-15 minutes earlier and get better seats. - Getting into your room early. the normal time is 1-2pm so it’s not that much earlier, just about 30 minutes. So is The Key worth it? Yes on a cruise 7 days or less, has you can only use most of the rewards just once. But on longer cruise all the benefit have gone and your paying extra to use the WiFi each day. On a B2B cruise is good has you can use it on the first cruise and relax & not need it on the second cruise.
Yes had the key last time. And enjoyed it. Getting the internet package anyway and that drop off and lunch worked for us as we hate crowded buffet areas.
Because we would have bought wifi anyway and it included it, the difference in cost was well worth it. When we showed up "early" for our cruise there was a huge line waiting to get into the port. We walked up to a gentleman standing outside on a walkie talkie and were directed right by the line, to an agent who had us quickly boarding the ship. Throw in the cost of a lunch at Chops Grille, and again, getting walked right by everyone else to the next available customs agent when we got back, and it was awesome!
We got the Key when we were on Freedom last November. My husband had just finished cancer treatment (in September) and was still a little weak from that, plus I can't stand for long periods anymore (arthritis) so for the boarding privileges alone, it was worth it for us. The internet package and the MDR lunch (which was nice relaxing start to our vacation) were the other top selling points. As we move up in Crown and Anchor, it may not be needed, but until then, I am a fan of the Key.
We had the key on our last cruise and love it. Especially my two teens. They used the ice skating time twice and the flowrider time. It was perfect. Everyone enjoyed the lunch and disembark breakfast. Can't imagine cruising without it.
I’ve used the Key twice and loved it. Once I hit Diamond it probably won’t be attractive to me. My favorite perks are the carryon luggage drop and a leisurely breakfast with a personal escort off the ship to customs at the end. I did take advantage of the set time for Northstar in Anthem but
Last year my family and myself went on the Allure or the Seas and had the Key. Throughout the cruise the Key was helpful and embarkation day was a lot easier with the Key. Having a dedicated security check in line at the cruise terminal shortened the would be hour wait to 5 minutes. Demarcation day was where the Key shined. The breakfast was delicious in the main dinning room and being able to leave the ship whenever we wanted was convenient. Customs, usually a nightmare for us, was done in 5 minutes because Key guests can use the suite level customs line instead of waiting with everyone else. The line was a good 2 hrs long and we just picked up our bags and essentially walked out with no wait. Contrary to this video, GET THE KEY!!!!!!!!
We got The Key on Symphony for $18 and then on Harmony for $25. Did not like the Chops Grill limited lunch menu in the MDR this time. Would rather it be in Chops Grill. I would not pay any more than $18 for it ever again. Would just buy the internet package next time. Anything over $18 is not worth it.
And depending on your C&A level or accommodations (We are Platinum sailing in a Suite), lots of benefits are duplicated. We sail on the Symphony in April.
We'd going on Oasis-my bff has a Walker... so since we'd were going to get Voom anyway-the priority embarkation and embarkation makes it worth it for her
I will likely get the key program again for my upcoming cruise with my children. I got it in January 2020 on Allure of the Seas and while many of the benefits were nice, it would have been a lot nicer if the staff understood the key program better. Most of the staff members had no clue what the benefits were so even with the priority time block for things like rock climbing and the surf thing, the staff just put us in the regular line. Same with shows, they had no clue of priority or VIP seating so they just told us to sit anywhere. Ultimately, I went to guest services for lack of being able to experience the full benefits and they credited me two days back.
I wasn't going to get the Key for the reasons stated in the video. However, for my 12 night cruise this summer the Key is only $1.00 per person, per day more expensive than the WiFi package so it makes sense. I'll keep my eye on things as it gets closer and could change my mind but for now I have it.
We bought The Key for a 4-Day itinerary. We were traveling with another couple who were cruising for the first time. They also bought it. That it included Voom, alone made it worth it to us. We really enjoyed the lunch at Chops on embarkation day, as we hate fighting for food and a table at the Windjammer. The bag drop also was nice. We won't be getting it on our next sailing because many of the benefits are already included for Suites. However, I do agree with @Bradley, that they should dispense with the per day charge.
The Key on my first cruise had me hooked! The private Chops Grill lunch was great and being that I brought 2 bottles of wine, my carryon was heavy and I needed that bag drop off! The internet was nice for international communication/apps that let you WiFi call(and not having to use a cell phone plan). The debarkation breakfast was nice! Had a steak and waffles for breakfast 😋 If you buy it, keep looking on the site/ emails for discounts. I got $80 off once !
We used the key on ovation and we had priority debarkation.. on at our stops at the dock..didn't need a tender..with internet definitely worth it for us
Our first cruise we didn’t have the key and the windjammer on embarkation day totally freaked me out. Our second cruise we opted for the key and loved it. We felt that with the WiFi, chops lunch and not “schlepping” our carry on around was 100% worth the price. We just bought it again for our upcoming AOTS cruise in March.
Kelly Dingman the woman and I are going on AOTS February 7th for a nice little 8 nighter. I thought about it but couldn’t bring myself to spend close to $400 extra
We purchased the Key on the Allure of the Seas last month. Check-in was extremely fast, we enjoyed the lunch at Chops Grill, and we had a 9:30 am flight and we were off the ship and at the airport by 7:30. We were going to purchase the internet package anyway, so the small price difference made it well worth the cost for my husband and I.
Great tips and points. If you are Crown and Anchor Diamond or above you already get a lot of the perks including a welcome brunch/ snacks on departure day in the exclusive lounge. You as well get discount rates for Internet packages.
YOU WANT THE KEY !! we arrived at the port at 11am. we were on the ship with a Mocktail in our hands and carry on bags being taken to our cabin by 11:20 the Lunch was great, the breakfast on debarkation was INCREDIBLE!!! we had reserved center seats at each show :D our key only cost us $15PP more a day then just buying the voom internet service
If you’re traveling alone, are not diamond, and want internet then it’s a no brainer to get the key, which is why I always get it. If I had a family or others with me it would be different for sure
@@RoyalCaribbeanBlog Matt agreed. There were only 3 of us (and my son paid for his own) so it made sense for us. If our family was larger or younger, probably not.
We loved "The Key" and I did a whole video about our experience on the Mariner. If you are just going as a couple it is a great deal if you aren't high up in the RCCL rewards program. The Embankment Day lunch while leisurely but was absolutely delicious and I would gladly pass up on the buffet food for it. We also received a large tasty fruit plate in our cabin upon return from our day at Coco Cay plus a couple of chocolate Keys! The priority boarding and disembarkation was worth the price of admission. We passed ALL the long lines! We felt VIP with "The Key". The disembarkation day breakfast was also very tasty and definitely not buffet food. I do agree that if you have a large family this might be a bit pricey and the designated times for use of Flowrider/Rock climbing, etc is not ideal and limited. We bought it for our next cruise on the Independence which will require a tender into Grand Cayman so I'm looking forward to see how having "The Key" for that works out. I love you RCCL vlogs mate, they are informative!
This depends on the cost difference. I got the key on my cruise this past summer and I have to say it was more than worth it. On my next cruise, I got the Key again because it was only $2 more per person per day than internet alone! The welcome lunch and departure day breakfast alone is more than worth the extra expense. Special seating at shows was a bonus. If you're buying Voom anyway, definitely get the Key, but keep an eye on the prices as they fluctuate almost daily.
My daughter and I are going in March. It’s a short cruise and the key wasn’t much more than the Internet package. I like the chops lunch and luggage drop benefits. I’ll let you know after the cruise what I thought of it. We always get carnival’s faster to the fun and it is absolutely worth it.
We used The Key on the Independence back in December and loved it. It only cost us $19.99 per day for 3 people so it wasn’t that bad. The best part we thought was getting on and leaving early and didn’t have to wait in lines. Not sure if I’ll use it again but for that trip it was worth it.
We got the Key 2 years ago and it was totally worth it. everything from early embarkation, the lunch at Chops Grille(Fantastic), seating at the shows and the absolute best steak and eggs breakfast before we departed on the last day of the cruise. Booked to go on another Caribbean cruise in April 2022, will definitely look to book the key again. I just need the price to be right!!
I have the key for an upcoming cruise. I am excited about it. On my last cruise, the windjammer on embarkation day was a mess. There was a long line to get in, people were pushing and shoving like they never ate before and there was limited seating. Eating at chops will be a much welcomed change. Plus the food at chops is better. Also, i have seen the key as low as 19.99 a day which is just a few dollars more than the internet package. That coupled with special time to use certain facilities to avoid lines is why I got the key.
We just returned from a sailing last week and we purchased the Key.. and it was awesome. We wouldn't want to do it any other way for now. The benefit of dropping off your carry-ons and having them delivered to your stateroom and not having to lug them around for hours is a plus.. then having a comfortable sitdown lunch without the crowds if the Windjammer.. Sorrentos.. Park Cafe.. and Mini Bites.. was a plus. Having the internet package was also amazing and the thing we didn't know until we called RC it that each person that has the Key includes 1 package per paying guest so if there's 2 guest that's 2 internet package.. The VIP seating was ok for the most part we didn't use it at every show and we also didn't utilize the private hours for the onboard activities and last thing.. having the Key on debarkation day and having a comfortable breakfast and able to debark anytime was a win win.. so I would definitely recommend the Key to anyone that's not already receiving these types of perks.
We didn’t use the Key for rides or shows. We did use it for embarkation and debarkation, the lunch at Chops was a nice way to chill away from all the hubbub, the opportunity to drop off our carry-on luggage was good too. Would we buy again yes but it may depend on the cost.
We have it for our upcoming cruise. Cost was a total of $30 more than the internet for 10 nights. Less stress with a decent meal on the first and last day worth it. Also, both Hawaii ports are tenders in case we decide to cut the line.
We had The Key on our last RCCL cruise. We paid $19.99 per day on a 9 day cruise. We would normally get the internet anyway, so it was nice to get the extra added benefits for just a couple of dollars more than the internet cost. I would definitely do it again at that price - I'm not sure how high I would go to get the benefit, though. And we preferred the lunch in the MDR to the Windjammer - did not find it was overly long, but it was much more relaxing than trying to navigate the Windjammer and find a seat.
We enjoy The Key program, especially on larger ships. When you get the value of voom, and a chops grill meal its only a few dollars per day. Getting priority boarding, priority entrance and seating to shows. We feel its worth it when less than $20 per day. Have to watch the price and book before it sells out.
Matt, one thing you may not know about the priority debarkation in port is that it doesn’t apply to only tender ports. On our recent Liberty of the Seas cruise we didn’t have any tender ports, but we were always escorted down to the gangway and were first ones off the ship each day in port.
I got The Key last summer for my wife and I and I enjoyed it. If my kids came along I would not have done it. I got it at $19 pp/day. I enjoyed getting on the ship and having my carry on sent to my room as I got on the ship around 10:30 and didn't get my room access until close to 2 pm. Also the lunch in the MDR was great and easy paced. I did go to the Windjammer to see about after the lunch and seating was tight. The seating for the shows was only good for the water show for me; otherwise I got their a half hour before the shows and found better seating. I used the Key hours for zip line, rock climbing and wave runner and it was quick with less people waiting to use those items. If it is just my wife and I sailing again and the price is not high, I would consider buying it again.
We purchased the key for Allure last July and will say four things made it worth it, WiFi, priority boarding, priority seating and priority disembarkation. The rest what we used from it were bonus’s.
Me and my boyfriend did this on the navigator and it was fantastic. We were treated like VIP guest the whole cruise, the chops lunch was delicious, the private times were awesome and mind you it included the water slides as well. The internet was fastest we have ever seen and the priority embarking/disembarking was awesome. For people who are not at the diamond or suite level this is a great option and you actually get more perks. I would definitely do this for all my cruises going forward. Those who put this down are people who have never actually purchased it and always need to have an opinion about everything or at the suite/diamond level and are sour that people can pay a flat fee for all these perks they had to take a bunch of cruises to get.
We did get the Key for our Europe cruise leaving Barcelona for 7 day cruise, we were able to check in fast no line for us and we did get to drop off our carry on luggage, and go to nice sit down lunch, with debark we got to go have breakfast and take our time, they took our luggage was taken down and waiting for us we did not have to wait for the carousel looking for our luggage, we had a porter who personal walk us straight to disembark and no waiting to get off the ship hassle free. it was cheaper then what you said on you video.
I bought it for my first cruise on Oasis last month b/c I didn't want to wait in line getting on the ship. Everything Matt said was my experience. I got to the ship around 10:30 or 11 and walked right on. Didn't even see where to go for the key. It took about an hour or more to eat lunch and the rooms were available before I was done eating so I didn't need to drop off my carry on. The food was good but took soooooo long to eat. I went to a couple shows and didn't even see where the key seating was. I didn't ask b/c there were a lot of good seats available. I did do the private flowrider sesion. There was only three of us but the hour went fast. I was escorted of during debarkation . Being my first cruise I don't know how long it takes to get off normally. I would have got internet and probably will on my next cruise but not the key.
We're cruising in late Feb and was considering it. It's our 2nd cruise and if I can get it for a reasonable price (has been $21.99/day) I'll probably get it. Getting married in Vegas then a 5 day Caribbean cruise. We shall see. This video was very well timed. Thanks!
I haven't done this yet but in regards to the lunch on embarkation day, I like the sound of it. Yes it's going to take more of your time to sit down and eat but my last cruise on Allure, we went up the Windjammer and the line was out the door because the rooms weren't available yet so the very thoughtful (sarcasm) people who got in there earlier were just hanging out until 1pm. We ended up having to get pizza at Sorentos. Which was...fine but was annoying that on a ship as big as Allure, people couldn't find somewhere else to hang out until 1pm? The same goes for breakfast on the last day. My last two cruises, I've made it a point to go to the main dining room on the last day because I get to sit down and not have to deal with trying to find a table while people walk right in front of you.
I have a cruise coming up in October. I was going to get the KEY, but decided against it. I don't care to do water slides, wall climbing, or the other types of amenities. I'm also not doing any excursions or specialty dining. I have no reason to get an internet package, because I'm on vacation. I'm going to just kick back enjoy the cruise and the watch the ocean. I'll do my best to stay away from any where there are large crowds.
I purchased The Key for my very first cruise back on Dec. 1st on Oasis. I won't purchase again. While I liked being able to drop off my luggage and explore the ship and the Chops Grille lunch along with the internet service, that's about all I liked. There really was no line to get on the ship because we were early. I did not see any VIP seating at the shows. It was pretty much sit where ever. Definitely won't be purchasing again. I can put that money to better use on my next cruise.
Jo Upshire on our last cruise we did not have the key. The key seating was were we had always sat on previous cruises. We will definitely use that benefit at the shows. When we would leave the ship at ports, we would always see the key card holders walking right past us in their own stairwell. We always get internet for each of our phones. We love Chops and we don’t spend time in the pools on embarkation days, so we won’t miss pool time that day. The key includes the internet. If you take the internet cost out, the key is well worth it for the added benefits it brings us.
We thought about getting the Key for a Harmony cruise but missed out on purchasing it... turns out the cruise was just as fine, fun, and speedy without it! I guess if we were in dire need for getting on ship ASAP (faster than just showing up at a decent early hour- which wasn't too much faster), and getting 1:1 or early access to on board activities such as flow rider and zip line at very specific times (it's not like one can just cut in line, it's a reserved time slot) . . . making the reservations to shows online and just enjoying the cruise was enough (and free!) for a fun stress free vacation. We got the internet pkg with the ultimate drink pkg, so it was a cheaper deal that getting it or either solo. If people were desiring the internet without the drink pkg, plus potential benefits, I guess it could work reasonably for a budget. Also, Key members do not get through security/customs faster than others, so while vacation kay "start" sooner, it ends the same- haha. I observed people have a very entitled attitude when we were all standing in the same looooong line at the end of the cruise.
We loved the perks of having the Key, priority boarding, nice lunch, luggage drop off, departure breakfast and assisted debarkation. The problem is that the Key has become a lot more expensive. On our next cruise it will add $420 to our fare. Worth it? probably not. A couple things to mention: lunch on embarkation day is not limited to the WindJammer, look around if you hate the crowds, "priority" times for activities are really limited, you must arrive 45 minutes early for priority seating at the shows, and the MDR is open to everyone on the last morning.
We are huge fans of the key. It’s not for everyone, but if you are thinking of purchasing the internet package the incremental cost is minimal. Moreover, expedited port disembarkation is huge - especially if you are heading to Europe as we are and have a number of tender ports. Lunch on embarkation day at chops meant not having to fight at the buffet and never was more than an hour. Lastly, the reserved seating meant we could show up 5 minutes prior and since this was also only for suite and diamond guests it never opened up to other passengers. The other perks are nice to haves.
I’m a key purchaser. You save so much money for the internet alone by purchasing the key. Plus the other perks. I just can’t believe that Matt, who vlogs under Royal Caribbean is telling us not to purchase it. Plus, he doesn’t properly pronounce perfect day at cocoa cocoa Kay (K) correctly.
Me and my girlfriend will be going on our first cruise with navigator and we have the key. I am not sure how we will like it but with the internet and chops lunch with drop off bags I feel that will make our cruise a lil better.
Went on Harmony in Dec and did not have the key.. waited 90 minutes to get on and longer to get off... Taking my elderly brother in law on his first cruise in February on Independence and just paid extra so I don't chance him having to stand in line for over an hour.. worth it for that.
except you forgot the line at windjammer - that could take an hour or longer on a large ship. We bought it for our Oasis cruise in August because we were buying the internet package anyway so it worked out to be an extra 6 per day to add the Key. I did not buy it on the enchantment.
Will be travelling on Serenade of the Seas from Sydney to NZ in October and decided not to get the key as SOS is a smaller ship and doesn’t have the same activities and amenities as the larger ships in the fleet. I would basically be paying A$35 / day for a steak meal the first day, the ability to drop off my hand luggage the first day and use the rock wall between 7pm and 8pm everyday- I’m too old to be climbing walls but not to old to be able to wheel my luggage off the ship . Seems a price gouge to me just like the optional tours on this trip I can privately book a few of the tours offered for a quarter of the price they want to charge for eg an 8 hour trip on a steam train with lunch at a winery for nearly $400 when I can by a ticket for the same train trip that takes 2 hours in reality and I pay $125.
Hey M.J. have you gone on a royal cruise before? I personally dont agree with the things stated in the video. If you havent been on one, I can tell you about my experience without the key and how having the key makes a huge diff.. for me (someone w 3 young kids)
My wife and splurged for a trip on Allure of the Seas in early January - our first without the kids since they'd been born. Because it was just us, we were emphasizing the pampering and special service we could get on the ship - it was absolutely worth it at the price of just slightly more than the cost of internet. I don't know that it would be worth it if we had the kids along. I will say this - based on the filet mignon I ate during the embarkation lunch, it kept me from eating at Chops Grille later on, because my local steakhouse chains were better at executing (the meat was fantastically tender, but it was just lukewarm when it got to my table and lacked flavor). Also not having to deal with the line for breakfast on the last day was great, along with the "walk off when you're ready" timeline, as we had an early flight to catch.
I’m in my 70’s and taking my 12 year old grandson. Using a deal on the Key we both get Internet, don’t have to lug our carry on stuff all over the ship (I have back issues) and he gets exclusive time on the Flowrider etc. Worth it to me.
I got it on my last cruise and priority boardingat cruise ports was only in one port in like a 2 hour window. Also priority boarding on embarkation day like stated in the video is mitigated my parents got on the ship before us and they did not get the key. Only real benefit was the internet and you can package that up with your drink package. So i recommend just doing that. The key is not worth the money
I just purchased The Key for a 3 day cruise. It was $16.99 a day and the internet package alone was $15.99 a day. I can't say for sure that we would have bought the internet package on it's own. My fiancé has anxiety and Covid has made it much worse, so I honestly mostly got it to avoid the crowds on the first and last days of the cruise. I paid a total of $50 for each of us. The lunch at Chops is normally $20 per person, plus the value of the internet package at around $45 per person for this trip, I feel like we're getting more than enough value fore our $$ here, even if we don't use any of the other perks.
We avoid the Internet while cruising, so not really much value for us. In terms of tendering, if timing was a concern we would just pay extra for a RCL shore excursion, guaranteed to not miss the boat (erm, ship!) that way.
I got the Key for $19.99 on the Oasis in December. It was worth it considering I was traveling in my own cabin and I was going to get the internet package any ways. The Chops lunch, priority embarkation, reserved seating and all the other benefits were more than worth the extra $35. The one thing I was disappointed by was the Flowrider reserved time was one hour early in the morning on the sixth day. Never made it to it.
Just booked Odyssey for April 2020. I purchased The Key for myself and my son. We want the private time on the flow rider, rock climbing and hopefully some other activities are included. I also want that opportunity to get off quickly at Coco, Grand Caymen and anywhere else. I’m not purchasing a Dinner Package (did that on Symphony’) So, I essentially get one speciality restaurant meal included for free. And I’m obviously getting Internet and zoom. This is one of the smartest choices I’ve made next to getting divorced 😂
I brought it for our cruise last year and again this year. The internet , and chops is the most appealing thing to us. It's just my husband and I and for the two of us I think it's worth it. For more than two I think the price is too much. We paid $160 for five nights of Indy. The internet would have cost us $120 so for $40 more we get the extra perks. Worth it for us
We are getting it because my husband has a bad back and just standing around is the worse thing for him.. if he is walking or sitting then that is good..
Just off Oasis of the seas and had the key. There are a couple of points to note. 1. I got it because internet was 14.99 and got key for 17.99 in special offer prior to cruise so it was worth it for 3.00 per day 2. I brought 2 bottles of wine and 2X6 packs of water in carry on luggage so used key to get those delivered to cabin as soon as we got on. 3. The steak from Chops Grill that we had for embarkation lunch in main dining room was probably the best steak i have ever tasted. It cut like butter and was unbelievable. The dining room was very empty and very relaxing away from the herd. 4. You don't need key to bag good seats. We went to all the shows and there were plenty of great unreserved seats available with 20 mins to go to the start of the show. Arrive early and you won't need the key. 5. I didn't use the key for any slides , zipwire etc as the hour's were very early when none was using them anyway 6. At ports and on embarkation there was never a queue to get off the boat so no need for the key 7. The breakfast in the main dining room on the final morning was nice and uncrowded so that was a plus and we had the option to get off the boat at anytime that suited. Our suitcases were put with the suite guests on disembarkation. This was right next to the final security check so a little less suitcase dragging. The key guests used to have the embarkation lunch in Chops Grill but that has changed to main dining room and key guests are no longer escorted off the ship for disembarkation. They seem to be selling more and more off them so can't deliver the VIP treatment that it had in the past Would i get it again? Yes if the price is right versus internet only.
I bought it on sale with internet for an upcoming cruise. Went on Freedom of ther seas 2 years ago and couldn't get in to a single show due to crowds. I also love love love Chops. My friend and I both use electric wheelchairs so these perks all add up for us. We'll see how it works
I agree with your comments for a family, but as a solo cruiser, The Key is a much better deal for me. I would pay for the internet package anyway and the other extras are a value add. I have done it twice and loved it but will likely stop when I reach Diamond after this next cruise.
I bought the Key and loved it but I agree with the video. I most appreciated the Internet package - that was a Godsend. I like the idea of feeling "special" and "prioritized" but it is overpriced. I got a great deal on the Key going forward for a 7 day cruise, so I have it for the time being (but I may change that). However, for a much longer cruise, I'm out. It's too expensive, since it's a daily price that must be paid, and that adds up! I truly enjoy being one of the first people on a ship but that's almost impossible. They put the suites and Pinnacle members on first, then the Key, then the general pop. On NCL, I had The Haven and that made me first (unless they allowed the "back to back cruisers on first"). Also, the concept of priority seating in the theaters is a bit of a joke because they require you to get there quite early. If you were going to get there early anyway, you might as well wait a few minutes then get a priority location anyway. In short, it's a great idea, basically a copy of the FTTF program on Carnival, but it's greatly overpriced, IMO.
We bought the key on symphony in November and we found it not really worth it. We had four in a room so it was very expensive. I definitely agree with your video. The seats for the shows were not great seats especially in the theatre and ice rink area. If you go 30 min early you will get better seats than the key people. The perks for the activities were offering possibly one activity a day and not the best times at all. We only used the skating. Some activities were 8:30 am for flowrider and during dinner for the zipline. Definitely not a great perk. The lunch on embarkation was good but did take long. The debarkation breakfast was great but they had eliminated any special Key line and you were directed into the regular line which was pretty quick anyway. Not all of us used the internet so we could have shared two internets instead of needing 4. All in all i would not recommend and we got it at $19.99 a day/person. All said in done it costs us at least $700 (including exchange rate from us to ca). Save your money and enjoy an excursion or drink package.
jerryuzo Obi . I agree but we definitely didn’t need or use 4 wifi accounts. My husband never even registered his account. We could have used one or two and just shared them so it maybe worthwhile for a couple or single person but not really for a family of four. Besides when we are on our cruises we try to limit the wifi use to a minimum and enjoy what the cruise has to offer instead.
I bought it, because it includes internet, as well as two meals, and early departure on excursion days, important to me as I don’t want to wait 15 extra minutes. I also don’t like lines to get on the ship or off the ship. The rest of it’s not a big deal. It’s a good deal for us. We also love food. However I will admit it isn’t worth it for other people. Plus I got a 25% discount on the key.
I have used The Key twice now. I shop the internet and Key prices. You can snag The Key cheaper, at times, than a two device plan. By shopping for the sale it makes The Key completely worthwhile.
How do you get on the Rising Tide? Besides drinks, is there anything to eat at that bar? How long does it take to go up and down? My husband thought he could order and enjoy lunch or dinner, but I think it's just a bar????
I’ve been going back and forth if I should get this for myself n hubby for over a year now. Cruising on Symphony of the seas in November for $29.99. Thanks for the breakdown Matt!! I keep hearing that the lines for the shows are horrendous even if you have a reservation... Is this true? This our first cruise on a mega ship. Thank you.
I was more concerned about the seating but like you said just get their early to get the bet setting. Question how early is to early. Lol. And it makes sense now that you said that having a sit down lunch takes time away from exploring the ship. Thanks for the info.
We arrived 30 min prior to show and got in line for maybe 5-10 min and when they let you in just have it in mind if you prefer floor or balcony and go right there. There are definitely better seats than the reserved key seats
@@chrisyandtommysadventure if it is- i just paid for something for nothing then- cause they let me purchase it- but i think i will cancel before my cruise-
I purchase the internet package for work so for an extra $5 per person we were able to get The Key so it made sense, especially since we're hopping on a ship we've been on twice before.
Quick, probably dumb question. I booked a grand suite, does it basically come with all the perks you get with the key? The cruise planner just threw me off with the option to purchase the key even though I was booked in a grand suite.
Nun yah not all perks come with a suite. Priority embarkation and disembarkation, and usually reserved seating in some shows. But that’s about it in terms of overlap
I’d say it’s worth it if you plan on getting the internet for everyone in your family. Otherwise, not worth it. We got the key for our 2019 cruise and loved being able to go to chopps right after boarding and the exclusive hours for the attractions in addition to the internet. Next year we’re going back, this time on a suite, but still getting the key. Again, mostly because we will be doing internet but still like the exclusive hours and chopps after boarding. None of which you get with suite benefits.
Cruise Lines always on the look out on how to ding more money from passengers by wrapping so called exclusive deals in various ways. It seems like cruising isn't what it used to be when it was REALLY all inclusive.... ain't so these days anymore. Passengers have to read the fine print yo know which are free & that not so free even when it comes to coffee & soft drinks it seems like🤤
If your going to buy the internet it’s worth it,for an extra like 130 cuz if ur gonna buy the internet the key includes that so it’s only 130-140 more for all that other stuff
They need to get rid of the per day charges. The prices are absolutely ridiculous if you calculate it for a 7 day cruise.
Bradley Hiemstra if it was a little more then the standard internet price per day, I’d say more peole would buy. But for a 7/8 day, YOURE talking almost $200 PER PERSON. that’s steep.
The Key Pro’s: Getting on the ship early with the Diamond passages etc. Yes it works. But only if you are there before they start boarding. If not, then you just get on with everyone else.- Going to Chops Grill on the first day (they have added Jamie’s Italian now). - Breakfast on disembarkation day is great. (what they have taken away is the special disembarkation all the way off the ship though security). And the Voom WiFi.
The Key Con’s: Special times for activates onboard. These are on different days and different times. This must be well planed with the shore excursions if you want to get the full use from them has you will need to get off at the port later or come back early to do some of them because of the time they have set for them. - VIP at the port. You do have priority disembarkation when getting off at the ports. BUT….. they only have one line for this. So unless you are there early. and at the front. You get off with everyone else. They should have 2 lines for this like at airports. - VIP seating at the shows. The seats are not the best. A lot of people just go 10-15 minutes earlier and get better seats. - Getting into your room early. the normal time is 1-2pm so it’s not that much earlier, just about 30 minutes.
So is The Key worth it? Yes on a cruise 7 days or less, has you can only use most of the rewards just once. But on longer cruise all the benefit have gone and your paying extra to use the WiFi each day. On a B2B cruise is good has you can use it on the first cruise and relax & not need it on the second cruise.
Yes had the key last time. And enjoyed it. Getting the internet package anyway and that drop off and lunch worked for us as we hate crowded buffet areas.
Because we would have bought wifi anyway and it included it, the difference in cost was well worth it. When we showed up "early" for our cruise there was a huge line waiting to get into the port. We walked up to a gentleman standing outside on a walkie talkie and were directed right by the line, to an agent who had us quickly boarding the ship. Throw in the cost of a lunch at Chops Grille, and again, getting walked right by everyone else to the next available customs agent when we got back, and it was awesome!
Got the key @$19. So enjoyed all the perks . Didnt use the special times, but found everything else wonderful and so worth it.
How did you get it so cheap? How long before your cruise did you purchase?
@@sandrafrancis3326 you need to keep checking cruise plannet for specials.
We got the Key when we were on Freedom last November. My husband had just finished cancer treatment (in September) and was still a little weak from that, plus I can't stand for long periods anymore (arthritis) so for the boarding privileges alone, it was worth it for us. The internet package and the MDR lunch (which was nice relaxing start to our vacation) were the other top selling points. As we move up in Crown and Anchor, it may not be needed, but until then, I am a fan of the Key.
We had the key on our last cruise and love it. Especially my two teens. They used the ice skating time twice and the flowrider time. It was perfect. Everyone enjoyed the lunch and disembark breakfast. Can't imagine cruising without it.
I’ve used the Key twice and loved it. Once I hit Diamond it probably won’t be attractive to me. My favorite perks are the carryon luggage drop and a leisurely breakfast with a personal escort off the ship to customs at the end. I did take advantage of the set time for Northstar in Anthem but
Oops. Did not use private times for Ifly (it was after dinner) or the rock wall (I’m too old!)
Once you’re Diamond and above, the Key makes zero sense.
Last year my family and myself went on the Allure or the Seas and had the Key. Throughout the cruise the Key was helpful and embarkation day was a lot easier with the Key. Having a dedicated security check in line at the cruise terminal shortened the would be hour wait to 5 minutes. Demarcation day was where the Key shined. The breakfast was delicious in the main dinning room and being able to leave the ship whenever we wanted was convenient. Customs, usually a nightmare for us, was done in 5 minutes because Key guests can use the suite level customs line instead of waiting with everyone else. The line was a good 2 hrs long and we just picked up our bags and essentially walked out with no wait. Contrary to this video, GET THE KEY!!!!!!!!
We got The Key on Symphony for $18 and then on Harmony for $25. Did not like the Chops Grill limited lunch menu in the MDR this time. Would rather it be in Chops Grill. I would not pay any more than $18 for it ever again. Would just buy the internet package next time. Anything over $18 is not worth it.
And depending on your C&A level or accommodations (We are Platinum sailing in a Suite), lots of benefits are duplicated. We sail on the Symphony in April.
Ruthy Tyre enjoy symphony . My mouth is watering for that ship 😭😭😭
When you talked about the tending it made me remember tendering into Coco Cay on my first cruise. Great Video!
We'd going on Oasis-my bff has a Walker... so since we'd were going to get Voom anyway-the priority embarkation and embarkation makes it worth it for her
My wife uses a walker too. We go priority both on and off the ship without paying extra because of her disability. Same with our flights.
Disabled passengers and their guests get priority embarkation and de-embarkation anyway. That’s free.
Got mine for 16.99/day so it was only $1 more than internet package...plus we are going to Grand Cayman
hi, how long before your cruise did you bought it?
I will likely get the key program again for my upcoming cruise with my children. I got it in January 2020 on Allure of the Seas and while many of the benefits were nice, it would have been a lot nicer if the staff understood the key program better. Most of the staff members had no clue what the benefits were so even with the priority time block for things like rock climbing and the surf thing, the staff just put us in the regular line. Same with shows, they had no clue of priority or VIP seating so they just told us to sit anywhere. Ultimately, I went to guest services for lack of being able to experience the full benefits and they credited me two days back.
I wasn't going to get the Key for the reasons stated in the video. However, for my 12 night cruise this summer the Key is only $1.00 per person, per day more expensive than the WiFi package so it makes sense. I'll keep my eye on things as it gets closer and could change my mind but for now I have it.
We bought The Key for a 4-Day itinerary. We were traveling with another couple who were cruising for the first time. They also bought it. That it included Voom, alone made it worth it to us. We really enjoyed the lunch at Chops on embarkation day, as we hate fighting for food and a table at the Windjammer. The bag drop also was nice. We won't be getting it on our next sailing because many of the benefits are already included for Suites. However, I do agree with @Bradley, that they should dispense with the per day charge.
The Key on my first cruise had me hooked!
The private Chops Grill lunch was great and being that I brought 2 bottles of wine, my carryon was heavy and I needed that bag drop off!
The internet was nice for international communication/apps that let you WiFi call(and not having to use a cell phone plan).
The debarkation breakfast was nice! Had a steak and waffles for breakfast 😋
If you buy it, keep looking on the site/ emails for discounts. I got $80 off once !
We used the key on ovation and we had priority debarkation..
on at our stops at the dock..didn't need a tender..with internet definitely worth it for us
Our first cruise we didn’t have the key and the windjammer on embarkation day totally freaked me out. Our second cruise we opted for the key and loved it. We felt that with the WiFi, chops lunch and not “schlepping” our carry on around was 100% worth the price. We just bought it again for our upcoming AOTS cruise in March.
Kelly Dingman the woman and I are going on AOTS February 7th for a nice little 8 nighter. I thought about it but couldn’t bring myself to spend close to $400 extra
Ours is only a six day and we would have had to buy the WiFi anyway. Have a great time on your cruise! We go 3/22 and I can’t wait.
We purchased the Key on the Allure of the Seas last month. Check-in was extremely fast, we enjoyed the lunch at Chops Grill, and we had a 9:30 am flight and we were off the ship and at the airport by 7:30. We were going to purchase the internet package anyway, so the small price difference made it well worth the cost for my husband and I.
Thank you for being quick, short and sweet with your information. Other blogs are dragged out with personal comments by the narrators.
Glad you liked it!
Great tips and points. If you are Crown and Anchor Diamond or above you already get a lot of the perks including a welcome brunch/ snacks on departure day in the exclusive lounge. You as well get discount rates for Internet packages.
YOU WANT THE KEY !!
we arrived at the port at 11am. we were on the ship with a Mocktail in our hands and carry on bags being taken to our cabin by 11:20
the Lunch was great, the breakfast on debarkation was INCREDIBLE!!!
we had reserved center seats at each show :D
our key only cost us $15PP more a day then just buying the voom internet service
If you’re traveling alone, are not diamond, and want internet then it’s a no brainer to get the key, which is why I always get it. If I had a family or others with me it would be different for sure
Jarrett Smith that’s a very fair point. I think it makes less financial sense the longer your cruise is, and/or the more people in your room.
@@RoyalCaribbeanBlog Matt agreed. There were only 3 of us (and my son paid for his own) so it made sense for us. If our family was larger or younger, probably not.
We loved "The Key" and I did a whole video about our experience on the Mariner. If you are just going as a couple it is a great deal if you aren't high up in the RCCL rewards program. The Embankment Day lunch while leisurely but was absolutely delicious and I would gladly pass up on the buffet food for it. We also received a large tasty fruit plate in our cabin upon return from our day at Coco Cay plus a couple of chocolate Keys! The priority boarding and disembarkation was worth the price of admission. We passed ALL the long lines! We felt VIP with "The Key". The disembarkation day breakfast was also very tasty and definitely not buffet food. I do agree that if you have a large family this might be a bit pricey and the designated times for use of Flowrider/Rock climbing, etc is not ideal and limited. We bought it for our next cruise on the Independence which will require a tender into Grand Cayman so I'm looking forward to see how having "The Key" for that works out. I love you RCCL vlogs mate, they are informative!
Checking it out now
with voom wifi included. Well worth it!
This depends on the cost difference. I got the key on my cruise this past summer and I have to say it was more than worth it. On my next cruise, I got the Key again because it was only $2 more per person per day than internet alone! The welcome lunch and departure day breakfast alone is more than worth the extra expense. Special seating at shows was a bonus. If you're buying Voom anyway, definitely get the Key, but keep an eye on the prices as they fluctuate almost daily.
My daughter and I are going in March. It’s a short cruise and the key wasn’t much more than the Internet package. I like the chops lunch and luggage drop benefits. I’ll let you know after the cruise what I thought of it. We always get carnival’s faster to the fun and it is absolutely worth it.
special lunch for key members. Special breakfast on debarkment. Less crowds. Easy adjustment from flight and time change
We used The Key on the Independence back in December and loved it. It only cost us $19.99 per day for 3 people so it wasn’t that bad. The best part we thought was getting on and leaving early and didn’t have to wait in lines. Not sure if I’ll use it again but for that trip it was worth it.
We got the Key 2 years ago and it was totally worth it. everything from early embarkation, the lunch at Chops Grille(Fantastic), seating at the shows and the absolute best steak and eggs breakfast before we departed on the last day of the cruise. Booked to go on another Caribbean cruise in April 2022, will definitely look to book the key again. I just need the price to be right!!
I have the key for an upcoming cruise. I am excited about it. On my last cruise, the windjammer on embarkation day was a mess. There was a long line to get in, people were pushing and shoving like they never ate before and there was limited seating. Eating at chops will be a much welcomed change. Plus the food at chops is better. Also, i have seen the key as low as 19.99 a day which is just a few dollars more than the internet package. That coupled with special time to use certain facilities to avoid lines is why I got the key.
We just returned from a sailing last week and we purchased the Key.. and it was awesome. We wouldn't want to do it any other way for now. The benefit of dropping off your carry-ons and having them delivered to your stateroom and not having to lug them around for hours is a plus.. then having a comfortable sitdown lunch without the crowds if the Windjammer.. Sorrentos.. Park Cafe.. and Mini Bites.. was a plus. Having the internet package was also amazing and the thing we didn't know until we called RC it that each person that has the Key includes 1 package per paying guest so if there's 2 guest that's 2 internet package.. The VIP seating was ok for the most part we didn't use it at every show and we also didn't utilize the private hours for the onboard activities and last thing.. having the Key on debarkation day and having a comfortable breakfast and able to debark anytime was a win win.. so I would definitely recommend the Key to anyone that's not already receiving these types of perks.
We didn’t use the Key for rides or shows. We did use it for embarkation and debarkation, the lunch at Chops was a nice way to chill away from all the hubbub, the opportunity to drop off our carry-on luggage was good too. Would we buy again yes but it may depend on the cost.
We have it for our upcoming cruise. Cost was a total of $30 more than the internet for 10 nights. Less stress with a decent meal on the first and last day worth it. Also, both Hawaii ports are tenders in case we decide to cut the line.
We had The Key on our last RCCL cruise. We paid $19.99 per day on a 9 day cruise. We would normally get the internet anyway, so it was nice to get the extra added benefits for just a couple of dollars more than the internet cost. I would definitely do it again at that price - I'm not sure how high I would go to get the benefit, though. And we preferred the lunch in the MDR to the Windjammer - did not find it was overly long, but it was much more relaxing than trying to navigate the Windjammer and find a seat.
We enjoy The Key program, especially on larger ships. When you get the value of voom, and a chops grill meal its only a few dollars per day. Getting priority boarding, priority entrance and seating to shows. We feel its worth it when less than $20 per day. Have to watch the price and book before it sells out.
Matt, one thing you may not know about the priority debarkation in port is that it doesn’t apply to only tender ports. On our recent Liberty of the Seas cruise we didn’t have any tender ports, but we were always escorted down to the gangway and were first ones off the ship each day in port.
Even so, I find this benefit largely useless. Lines at ports where you dock have always been very short in my experience.
I got The Key last summer for my wife and I and I enjoyed it. If my kids came along I would not have done it. I got it at $19 pp/day. I enjoyed getting on the ship and having my carry on sent to my room as I got on the ship around 10:30 and didn't get my room access until close to 2 pm. Also the lunch in the MDR was great and easy paced. I did go to the Windjammer to see about after the lunch and seating was tight. The seating for the shows was only good for the water show for me; otherwise I got their a half hour before the shows and found better seating. I used the Key hours for zip line, rock climbing and wave runner and it was quick with less people waiting to use those items. If it is just my wife and I sailing again and the price is not high, I would consider buying it again.
We purchased the key for Allure last July and will say four things made it worth it, WiFi, priority boarding, priority seating and priority disembarkation. The rest what we used from it were bonus’s.
Me and my boyfriend did this on the navigator and it was fantastic. We were treated like VIP guest the whole cruise, the chops lunch was delicious, the private times were awesome and mind you it included the water slides as well. The internet was fastest we have ever seen and the priority embarking/disembarking was awesome. For people who are not at the diamond or suite level this is a great option and you actually get more perks. I would definitely do this for all my cruises going forward. Those who put this down are people who have never actually purchased it and always need to have an opinion about everything or at the suite/diamond level and are sour that people can pay a flat fee for all these perks they had to take a bunch of cruises to get.
We did get the Key for our Europe cruise leaving Barcelona for 7 day cruise, we were able to check in fast no line for us and we did get to drop off our carry on luggage, and go to nice sit down lunch, with debark we got to go have breakfast and take our time, they took our luggage was taken down and waiting for us we did not have to wait for the carousel looking for our luggage, we had a porter who personal walk us straight to disembark and no waiting to get off the ship hassle free. it was cheaper then what you said on you video.
I bought it for my first cruise on Oasis last month b/c I didn't want to wait in line getting on the ship. Everything Matt said was my experience. I got to the ship around 10:30 or 11 and walked right on. Didn't even see where to go for the key. It took about an hour or more to eat lunch and the rooms were available before I was done eating so I didn't need to drop off my carry on. The food was good but took soooooo long to eat. I went to a couple shows and didn't even see where the key seating was. I didn't ask b/c there were a lot of good seats available. I did do the private flowrider sesion. There was only three of us but the hour went fast. I was escorted of during debarkation . Being my first cruise I don't know how long it takes to get off normally. I would have got internet and probably will on my next cruise but not the key.
We're cruising in late Feb and was considering it. It's our 2nd cruise and if I can get it for a reasonable price (has been $21.99/day) I'll probably get it. Getting married in Vegas then a 5 day Caribbean cruise. We shall see. This video was very well timed. Thanks!
Yes you nailed it exactly. Screw the Key! Don’t need it
I haven't done this yet but in regards to the lunch on embarkation day, I like the sound of it. Yes it's going to take more of your time to sit down and eat but my last cruise on Allure, we went up the Windjammer and the line was out the door because the rooms weren't available yet so the very thoughtful (sarcasm) people who got in there earlier were just hanging out until 1pm. We ended up having to get pizza at Sorentos. Which was...fine but was annoying that on a ship as big as Allure, people couldn't find somewhere else to hang out until 1pm? The same goes for breakfast on the last day. My last two cruises, I've made it a point to go to the main dining room on the last day because I get to sit down and not have to deal with trying to find a table while people walk right in front of you.
I have a cruise coming up in October. I was going to get the KEY, but decided against it. I don't care to do water slides, wall climbing, or the other types of amenities. I'm also not doing any excursions or specialty dining. I have no reason to get an internet package, because I'm on vacation.
I'm going to just kick back enjoy the cruise and the watch the ocean.
I'll do my best to stay away from any where there are large crowds.
I purchased The Key for my very first cruise back on Dec. 1st on Oasis. I won't purchase again. While I liked being able to drop off my luggage and explore the ship and the Chops Grille lunch along with the internet service, that's about all I liked. There really was no line to get on the ship because we were early. I did not see any VIP seating at the shows. It was pretty much sit where ever. Definitely won't be purchasing again. I can put that money to better use on my next cruise.
Jo Upshire on our last cruise we did not have the key. The key seating was were we had always sat on previous cruises. We will definitely use that benefit at the shows. When we would leave the ship at ports, we would always see the key card holders walking right past us in their own stairwell. We always get internet for each of our phones. We love Chops and we don’t spend time in the pools on embarkation days, so we won’t miss pool time that day. The key includes the internet. If you take the internet cost out, the key is well worth it for the added benefits it brings us.
We thought about getting the Key for a Harmony cruise but missed out on purchasing it... turns out the cruise was just as fine, fun, and speedy without it! I guess if we were in dire need for getting on ship ASAP (faster than just showing up at a decent early hour- which wasn't too much faster), and getting 1:1 or early access to on board activities such as flow rider and zip line at very specific times (it's not like one can just cut in line, it's a reserved time slot) . . . making the reservations to shows online and just enjoying the cruise was enough (and free!) for a fun stress free vacation. We got the internet pkg with the ultimate drink pkg, so it was a cheaper deal that getting it or either solo. If people were desiring the internet without the drink pkg, plus potential benefits, I guess it could work reasonably for a budget. Also, Key members do not get through security/customs faster than others, so while vacation kay "start" sooner, it ends the same- haha. I observed people have a very entitled attitude when we were all standing in the same looooong line at the end of the cruise.
We loved the perks of having the Key, priority boarding, nice lunch, luggage drop off, departure breakfast and assisted debarkation. The problem is that the Key has become a lot more expensive. On our next cruise it will add $420 to our fare. Worth it? probably not. A couple things to mention: lunch on embarkation day is not limited to the WindJammer, look around if you hate the crowds, "priority" times for activities are really limited, you must arrive 45 minutes early for priority seating at the shows, and the MDR is open to everyone on the last morning.
We are huge fans of the key. It’s not for everyone, but if you are thinking of purchasing the internet package the incremental cost is minimal. Moreover, expedited port disembarkation is huge - especially if you are heading to Europe as we are and have a number of tender ports. Lunch on embarkation day at chops meant not having to fight at the buffet and never was more than an hour. Lastly, the reserved seating meant we could show up 5 minutes prior and since this was also only for suite and diamond guests it never opened up to other passengers. The other perks are nice to haves.
I’m a key purchaser. You save so much money for the internet alone by purchasing the key. Plus the other perks. I just can’t believe that Matt, who vlogs under Royal Caribbean is telling us not to purchase it. Plus, he doesn’t properly pronounce perfect day at cocoa cocoa Kay (K) correctly.
Me and my girlfriend will be going on our first cruise with navigator and we have the key. I am not sure how we will like it but with the internet and chops lunch with drop off bags I feel that will make our cruise a lil better.
Went on Harmony in Dec and did not have the key.. waited 90 minutes to get on and longer to get off... Taking my elderly brother in law on his first cruise in February on Independence and just paid extra so I don't chance him having to stand in line for over an hour.. worth it for that.
except you forgot the line at windjammer - that could take an hour or longer on a large ship. We bought it for our Oasis cruise in August because we were buying the internet package anyway so it worked out to be an extra 6 per day to add the Key. I did not buy it on the enchantment.
Will be travelling on Serenade of the Seas from Sydney to NZ in October and decided not to get the key as SOS is a smaller ship and doesn’t have the same activities and amenities as the larger ships in the fleet. I would basically be paying A$35 / day for a steak meal the first day, the ability to drop off my hand luggage the first day and use the rock wall between 7pm and 8pm everyday- I’m too old to be climbing walls but not to old to be able to wheel my luggage off the ship . Seems a price gouge to me just like the optional tours on this trip I can privately book a few of the tours offered for a quarter of the price they want to charge for eg an 8 hour trip on a steam train with lunch at a winery for nearly $400 when I can by a ticket for the same train trip that takes 2 hours in reality and I pay $125.
You couldn't have timed this video anymore perfect. Been throwing around the idea of to get or not to get the Key. Glad i decided not too.
Hey M.J. have you gone on a royal cruise before? I personally dont agree with the things stated in the video. If you havent been on one, I can tell you about my experience without the key and how having the key makes a huge diff.. for me (someone w 3 young kids)
Used it on Liberty! Loved it. Won’t be using it on symphony..
@@jessicaking123 please do.
Totally agree with your great content 👍🏻 The Key is an unnecessary expense. Cost outweighs the benefits.
My wife and splurged for a trip on Allure of the Seas in early January - our first without the kids since they'd been born. Because it was just us, we were emphasizing the pampering and special service we could get on the ship - it was absolutely worth it at the price of just slightly more than the cost of internet. I don't know that it would be worth it if we had the kids along. I will say this - based on the filet mignon I ate during the embarkation lunch, it kept me from eating at Chops Grille later on, because my local steakhouse chains were better at executing (the meat was fantastically tender, but it was just lukewarm when it got to my table and lacked flavor). Also not having to deal with the line for breakfast on the last day was great, along with the "walk off when you're ready" timeline, as we had an early flight to catch.
Thinking about getting it because the cost of wifi almost pays for it. We will only be paying $18 and change for it
Go for it . If lower than $20, I’ll get it. How come it’s that cheap for you? Mine still says $29.99
@@jerryuzoobi2807 the price varies by cruise & ship.
I’m in my 70’s and taking my 12 year old grandson. Using a deal on the Key we both get Internet, don’t have to lug our carry on stuff all over the ship (I have back issues) and he gets exclusive time on the Flowrider etc. Worth it to me.
I got it on my last cruise and priority boardingat cruise ports was only in one port in like a 2 hour window. Also priority boarding on embarkation day like stated in the video is mitigated my parents got on the ship before us and they did not get the key. Only real benefit was the internet and you can package that up with your drink package. So i recommend just doing that. The key is not worth the money
I just purchased The Key for a 3 day cruise. It was $16.99 a day and the internet package alone was $15.99 a day. I can't say for sure that we would have bought the internet package on it's own. My fiancé has anxiety and Covid has made it much worse, so I honestly mostly got it to avoid the crowds on the first and last days of the cruise.
I paid a total of $50 for each of us. The lunch at Chops is normally $20 per person, plus the value of the internet package at around $45 per person for this trip, I feel like we're getting more than enough value fore our $$ here, even if we don't use any of the other perks.
We avoid the Internet while cruising, so not really much value for us. In terms of tendering, if timing was a concern we would just pay extra for a RCL shore excursion, guaranteed to not miss the boat (erm, ship!) that way.
I got the Key for $19.99 on the Oasis in December. It was worth it considering I was traveling in my own cabin and I was going to get the internet package any ways. The Chops lunch, priority embarkation, reserved seating and all the other benefits were more than worth the extra $35. The one thing I was disappointed by was the Flowrider reserved time was one hour early in the morning on the sixth day. Never made it to it.
The extra $35? Didn't you pay $19.99 per day?
@@enqviststaffan The internet package was $15/day. The Key was $20/day which included the internet package. $5/day x 7 day cruise = $35.
Just booked Odyssey for April 2020. I purchased The Key for myself and my son. We want the private time on the flow rider, rock climbing and hopefully some other activities are included. I also want that opportunity to get off quickly at Coco, Grand Caymen and anywhere else. I’m not purchasing a Dinner Package (did that on Symphony’) So, I essentially get one speciality restaurant meal included for free. And I’m obviously getting Internet and zoom. This is one of the smartest choices I’ve made next to getting divorced 😂
I brought it for our cruise last year and again this year. The internet , and chops is the most appealing thing to us. It's just my husband and I and for the two of us I think it's worth it. For more than two I think the price is too much. We paid $160 for five nights of Indy. The internet would have cost us $120 so for $40 more we get the extra perks. Worth it for us
Yeah, check in is usually fast. That a really good point! Y’all just saved us a few $100 this summer!
We are getting it because my husband has a bad back and just standing around is the worse thing for him.. if he is walking or sitting then that is good..
In an earlier vlog (same vlogger) the key was a great thing to purchase; now all of a sudden it makes no sense to get it. Um, wonder why the change?
Just off Oasis of the seas and had the key. There are a couple of points to note.
1. I got it because internet was 14.99 and got key for 17.99 in special offer prior to cruise so it was worth it for 3.00 per day
2. I brought 2 bottles of wine and 2X6 packs of water in carry on luggage so used key to get those delivered to cabin as soon as we got on.
3. The steak from Chops Grill that we had for embarkation lunch in main dining room was probably the best steak i have ever tasted. It cut like butter and was unbelievable. The dining room was very empty and very relaxing away from the herd.
4. You don't need key to bag good seats. We went to all the shows and there were plenty of great unreserved seats available with 20 mins to go to the start of the show. Arrive early and you won't need the key.
5. I didn't use the key for any slides , zipwire etc as the hour's were very early when none was using them anyway
6. At ports and on embarkation there was never a queue to get off the boat so no need for the key
7. The breakfast in the main dining room on the final morning was nice and uncrowded so that was a plus and we had the option to get off the boat at anytime that suited. Our suitcases were put with the suite guests on disembarkation. This was right next to the final security check so a little less suitcase dragging.
The key guests used to have the embarkation lunch in Chops Grill but that has changed to main dining room and key guests are no longer escorted off the ship for disembarkation. They seem to be selling more and more off them so can't deliver the VIP treatment that it had in the past
Would i get it again? Yes if the price is right versus internet only.
d oriordd we were escorted out last July
I bought it on sale with internet for an upcoming cruise. Went on Freedom of ther seas 2 years ago and couldn't get in to a single show due to crowds. I also love love love Chops. My friend and I both use electric wheelchairs so these perks all add up for us. We'll see how it works
I agree with your comments for a family, but as a solo cruiser, The Key is a much better deal for me. I would pay for the internet package anyway and the other extras are a value add. I have done it twice and loved it but will likely stop when I reach Diamond after this next cruise.
Myke Kudlas you’re not wrong that it’s easier to make work with less people
I will never cruise Royal Caribbean without the key. Best decision we made prior to our trip
I bought the Key and loved it but I agree with the video. I most appreciated the Internet package - that was a Godsend. I like the idea of feeling "special" and "prioritized" but it is overpriced. I got a great deal on the Key going forward for a 7 day cruise, so I have it for the time being (but I may change that). However, for a much longer cruise, I'm out. It's too expensive, since it's a daily price that must be paid, and that adds up!
I truly enjoy being one of the first people on a ship but that's almost impossible. They put the suites and Pinnacle members on first, then the Key, then the general pop. On NCL, I had The Haven and that made me first (unless they allowed the "back to back cruisers on first"). Also, the concept of priority seating in the theaters is a bit of a joke because they require you to get there quite early. If you were going to get there early anyway, you might as well wait a few minutes then get a priority location anyway. In short, it's a great idea, basically a copy of the FTTF program on Carnival, but it's greatly overpriced, IMO.
We bought the key on symphony in November and we found it not really worth it. We had four in a room so it was very expensive. I definitely agree with your video. The seats for the shows were not great seats especially in the theatre and ice rink area. If you go 30 min early you will get better seats than the key people. The perks for the activities were offering possibly one activity a day and not the best times at all. We only used the skating. Some activities were 8:30 am for flowrider and during dinner for the zipline. Definitely not a great perk. The lunch on embarkation was good but did take long. The debarkation breakfast was great but they had eliminated any special Key line and you were directed into the regular line which was pretty quick anyway. Not all of us used the internet so we could have shared two internets instead of needing 4. All in all i would not recommend and we got it at $19.99 a day/person. All said in done it costs us at least $700 (including exchange rate from us to ca). Save your money and enjoy an excursion or drink package.
Jennifer Speelman if getting internet, it’s worth it if price is below $20. That’s why I used it
jerryuzo Obi . I agree but we definitely didn’t need or use 4 wifi accounts. My husband never even registered his account. We could have used one or two and just shared them so it maybe worthwhile for a couple or single person but not really for a family of four. Besides when we are on our cruises we try to limit the wifi use to a minimum and enjoy what the cruise has to offer instead.
I bought it, because it includes internet, as well as two meals, and early departure on excursion days, important to me as I don’t want to wait 15 extra minutes. I also don’t like lines to get on the ship or off the ship. The rest of it’s not a big deal. It’s a good deal for us. We also love food.
However I will admit it isn’t worth it for other people. Plus I got a 25% discount on the key.
Thanks for the info!
I think The Key is good if you're on a short cruise (2-3 nights), but not for a long cruise (4+ nights).
I have used The Key twice now. I shop the internet and Key prices. You can snag The Key cheaper, at times, than a two device plan. By shopping for the sale it makes The Key completely worthwhile.
Michael Duncan good point about prices
We are booked and paid for our upcoming cruise in March. Where on the RCL's website is an offer to us to purchase The Key?
Thought about it but for 9 night cruise, not worth it. Internet plus reserved lunch at Chops added up to less money.
Going on adventure in November, to cozumel and maya. Not worth it. Got internet bundled with soda package during black Friday sale. 😉
Been to both. LOVED it! People are very friendly. Cozumel has a gigantic shopping area.
Definitely worth it especially if you are going to buy the internet package then it's a no brainer to be a part of the key program
How do you get on the Rising Tide? Besides drinks, is there anything to eat at that bar? How long does it take to go up and down? My husband thought he could order and enjoy lunch or dinner, but I think it's just a bar????
It’s just a bar.
Geez, I just looked for my cruise on Symphony and it is 40 a day! That's crazy expensive in my opinion. And not even sailing until Feb 2022!
I’ve been going back and forth if I should get this for myself n hubby for over a year now. Cruising on Symphony of the seas in November for $29.99. Thanks for the breakdown Matt!! I keep hearing that the lines for the shows are horrendous even if you have a reservation... Is this true? This our first cruise on a mega ship. Thank you.
I was more concerned about the seating but like you said just get their early to get the bet setting. Question how early is to early. Lol. And it makes sense now that you said that having a sit down lunch takes time away from exploring the ship. Thanks for the info.
We arrived 30 min prior to show and got in line for maybe 5-10 min and when they let you in just have it in mind if you prefer floor or balcony and go right there. There are definitely better seats than the reserved key seats
Jennifer Speelman, Oh that’s Great to Know. Thank you so much for that Info.
Hey Matt! How is key working with the new covid requirements? Is it worth it even now?
I think the program is currently on pause
@@chrisyandtommysadventure if it is- i just paid for something for nothing then- cause they let me purchase it- but i think i will cancel before my cruise-
I purchase the internet package for work so for an extra $5 per person we were able to get The Key so it made sense, especially since we're hopping on a ship we've been on twice before.
When you purchase the key for 2 people in the room, do you each get the internet then?
Quick, probably dumb question. I booked a grand suite, does it basically come with all the perks you get with the key? The cruise planner just threw me off with the option to purchase the key even though I was booked in a grand suite.
Nun yah not all perks come with a suite. Priority embarkation and disembarkation, and usually reserved seating in some shows. But that’s about it in terms of overlap
Thanks Matt great video as allways!! Do You know if San Juan Will still be in itineraries ?
I'll help with this one. Nothing has changed for sailings to, and departing from, San Juan :)
@@SpeedNoodles thank You so much!!
Thanks for explaining this, we were looking into getting this, but this made our mind up.. We will skip the key.
I bought this and I am happy I did.. I was going to buy the internet anyway and we wanted to sample the lunch at Chops without paying even more money
I’d say it’s worth it if you plan on getting the internet for everyone in your family. Otherwise, not worth it. We got the key for our 2019 cruise and loved being able to go to chopps right after boarding and the exclusive hours for the attractions in addition to the internet.
Next year we’re going back, this time on a suite, but still getting the key. Again, mostly because we will be doing internet but still like the exclusive hours and chopps after boarding. None of which you get with suite benefits.
Cruise Lines always on the look out on how to ding more money from passengers by wrapping so called exclusive deals in various ways. It seems like cruising isn't what it used to be when it was REALLY all inclusive.... ain't so these days anymore. Passengers have to read the fine print yo know which are free & that not so free even when it comes to coffee & soft drinks it seems like🤤
I have not bought it for all the reasons mentioned. and that carry on delivery, I don't do carry on, all I bring onto the ship myself is my purse.
The cost is outrageous. Per person, per day, even more outrageous!
If your going to buy the internet it’s worth it,for an extra like 130 cuz if ur gonna buy the internet the key includes that so it’s only 130-140 more for all that other stuff
How many cruises do you have to take with Royal Caribbean to be on the diamond category?
Diamond 💎 is 80points so it depends on the length of the cruise so about 12 7 day cruise but it is worth the perks are good
Going on Allure of the Seas feb 27 2022!