Royal Caribbean’s The Key – is it worth it?

Later this month me and the husband are off on the Explorer of the Seas to the Canaries for 11 nights and as we have done this itinerary before haven’t really bothered to look at our cruise planner until this weekend just gone to see what is on offer in terms of shore excursions, drinks and internet packages – and then in the list I noticed I could purchase the Key. I had read this was something that had been introduced a few months ago by Royal Caribbean and was aware of some of the extras it gives you but is it worth it especially for the price of $417 in total for the two of us

Here are the key inclusions:

• Priority check-in and boarding on Day 1
• Carry-on bag drop off in the Main Dining Room with stateroom delivery
• Exclusive welcome lunch in the Main Dining Room with a delicious menu featuring Chops Grille on embarkation day
• Private hours at onboard activities including Rock Climbing, FlowRider and more
• Priority departure at ports of call from ship-to-shore
• Seats in the exclusive VIP seating section at shows in the Main theater, Aqua Theater, Studio B, and Two70
• VOOM® Surf & Stream 1 Device high speed internet – 1 package per paying guest
• On debarkation day, an exclusive a la carte breakfast and choice departure

We came to the decision that it was not for us  – I am quite lucky I live near Southampton and platinum tier so normally get boarded by 11.30am anyway,  we are happy to weat in the windjammer for lunch on day 1 as always lots of options and prefer to eat in Chops Grille in an evening. I have been to all the ports so not fussed about priority departure, and the seats in the theatre if we get there early enough there is always plenty of seats to choose from, and the internet is free when ashore on my mobile price plan or we find a cafe with free wi-fi and on the sea days it would nice to have a digital detox.

Reviews are mixed for the Key and its not something I will be trying out but have you bought it and was it worth the money?

Next time I will tell you all about the P&O 2021/2022 launch – if you can think that far ahead.

Have a great couple of weeks

Kerry

xx