If you’ve heard of The Key program from long-time cruisers, you’ve probably wondered; is The Key worth it on Royal Caribbean?
This paid add-on promises early boarding, priority access, unlimited internet, and more.
But the question of whether or not it’s worth the money you pay can be tricky to answer.
Mostly because it really depends on your personal budget and preference.
Some might see it as a worthwhile investment.
Others might consider it just an extra expense.
Let’s look into the details of Royal Caribbean’s The Key to help you better understand what it is and if you should purchase it.
What Is The Key on Royal Caribbean?
The Keyis an optional cruise upgrade you can buy before your departure date.
It’s not available on every sailing and it usually costs between $25 to $50 per person per day.
If you buy it, you’ll be given a number of exclusive perks that can make your cruise experience smoother and more luxurious.
Main Perks of The Key Program
Here’s what you getwhen you purchase Royal Caribbean’s The Key:
- Early check-in and boarding on embarkation day
- Drop off your carry-on bag and have it delivered to your room
- Special lunch in the Main Dining Room (Chops Grille menu)
- High-speed VOOM Surf & Stream internet for one device
- Priority seating at shows and events
- Private time at popular onboard attractions (like the rock wall or FlowRider)
- Priority disembarkation at ports and on the last day
- Private breakfast on disembarkation day
Sounds like a great deal overall, right?
But there are some things you need to consider first.
Is The Key Worth It for You?
If you want to know, is The Key worth it on Royal Caribbean, first study each item being offered.
For instance; were you already planning to buy the internet package for you and/or your traveling companions?
If so, then The Key might be worth the extra cost.
Royal Caribbean’s VOOM Internet Packagealone can cost between $20-$30 per person per day.
Since The Key is $25-$50 per passenger per day, you’re basically getting the VOOM internet plus extra perks.
Here’s another thing to consider; how much do you value skipping lines?
If you’re keen to do a lot of the activities onboard and don’t want to waste time waiting in line, again; The Key could be a good investment for you.
This is also true if you don’t want to wait for tenders at port.
How about having some of the best seats reserved for you at Royal Caribbean’s theater shows?
If that’s a big deal to you, The Key is definitely worth the investment.
The opposite rings true, too.
Let’s say you just want a chill, relaxing cruise where you can spend a few days unplugged and away from regular life.
Having internet access, reserved or priority seating, and private time at attractions aren’t a priority for you.
In this case, The Key program wouldn’t have much value for you.
When The Key Makes Sense…
To reiterate, here are some factors that make The Keyworth the extra daily expense:
- You’re already planning to buy VOOM internet
- You’re a solo traveler and don’t want to buy a multi-device internet plan
- You’re in a regular stateroom, not a suite
- You don’t have Crown & Anchor status with Royal Caribbean
The Key can give you a VIP-style experience without needing to book a suite or subscribe to their loyalty program.
… And When It Doesn’t
Let’s say you’ve booked a suite on a Royal Caribbean cruise.
This room gives you priority boarding, access to specialty dining, and better seating.
Or maybe you’re a Diamond orDiamond Plusloyalty member.
At this tier, some perks in The Keyprogram may overlap with what you already get.
Also, if you’re on a tight budget, it might not feel worth paying an extra $200+ for two people on a 4-night cruise.
What Past Travelers Say About The Key
According to past passengers, is The Key worth it on Royal Caribbean?
The reviews are generally mixed.
Some people say The Keymade their trip smoother and more comfortable, especially on big ships and longer cruises.
Others report that they barely used the perks.
A good number of people cited the Welcome Lunch as an example, stating it was nice and tasted good, but wasn’t exactly a game-changer.
A few other passengers pointed out the private activity session, saying they were great for their kids — especially the FlowRider and climbing wall.
But for solo travelers who didn’t really mind waiting in line, the exclusive sessions weren’t worth the extra expense.
How to Get the Best Price for The Key
If you’re thinking of purchasing The Key but are on a tight budget, here are some things that can help.
Royal Caribbean sometimes discounts The Keyprogram in its Cruise Planner.
Prices change often, so check back if it seems too high.
Also, once you see the price drop, buy it immediately, as this program often sells out.
Here’s something to note, too: everyone in your cabin age 6 or older has to buy it for the perks to apply.
So for families traveling together, the total cost adds up fast.
You may be able to get a discount or package deal on The Key program if you book your cruise through a travel agent.
Their industry connections often give them access to exclusive offers that they can then give to their clients.
Final Thoughts & Considerations
Ultimately, The Key is a solid investment if you see its benefits truly benefiting you during your cruise.
Again, let’s compare getting an internet package versus getting The Key package.
If VOOM costs $24/person per day and The Key program is currently priced at $35, you’re paying $11 more for:
- Early boarding
- Private lunch
- Private breakfast
- Reserved better seating at shows
- Priority at tenders and activities
That’s a good deal—if those things matter to you.
Now, compare it to booking a suite.
Suites offer more space, private sun decks, Coastal Kitchen dining, and a couple extra perks.
But booking a suite costs a lot more than purchasing The Key.
Prices can range from $319 to $528 a night.
Basic staterooms, on the other hand, cost much, much lower than that.
So if you book a stateroom and add an extra $25-$50, you can get some VIP benefits for yourself at a much lower price.
So, if you want that experience without paying for the full suite price, investing in The Keyis a smart option.
Ready to Sail Smarter? RSC Vacations Can Help
So, is The Key worth it on Royal Caribbean?
Let RSC Vacationshelp you decide!
We help families and travelers make the right choice before they even set foot on the ship.
Our cruise experts will look at your itinerary, cabin type, group size, and plans to give honest advice.
And if The Keymakes sense for your cruise, we’ll make sure you get the best available price.
Let us help you cruise smarter.
Book your next Royal Caribbean cruise with RSC Vacations today!