This was super fast and easy as the Muster Stations were all clearly labeled and close to where we walked onto the ship. In my opinion, this is not a one-size-fits-all package. Enhance your Crown & Anchor benefits by becoming a Royal Caribbean Visa cardholder today. Yes. Since we were in a suite, we were able to stand in the super short line on the right. Whoever pushed the hardest got on the soonest. Its important to note that these times that you choose during online check-in are only port arrival times. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. By booking a Star class suite, youll receive all of the perks of Sea and Sky class, plus some additional benefits. See what embarkation day was like for a Royal Caribbean cruise ship! On this latest cruise, we had people that were to check in THREE HOURS later, in line ahead of us, braggin about it. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Now, the welcome lunch is in a main dining room with a menu featuring items from Chops Grille. The Key program is controversial among some high-level Crown & Anchor members. With additional perks such as concierge service, priority boarding and departure privileges, and dedicated entertainment seating, everything you need for a lavish voyage is at your fingertips. All suites in the Royal Caribbean Suites program have access to certain benefits. So, how do you secure an early arrival time so that you can board the ship as soon as possible? When I approach the terminal I drop my bags with porters is that right? Our hotel (Intercontinental Miami) was a short 15-minute drive to the Port of Miami. In the Royal Up email, you'll see a minimum bid listed for each cabin that's available to bid on. Spacious AquaTheater suite (one bedroom). Hi there! (They do sell out.). if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_4',602,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_5',602,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0_1'); .large-mobile-banner-1-multi-602{border:none !important;display:block !important;float:none !important;line-height:0px;margin-bottom:7px !important;margin-left:auto !important;margin-right:auto !important;margin-top:7px !important;max-width:100% !important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center !important;}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). In Lauderdale it was different, this was pre covid, and suites/pinnacle etc had their own security check through. Whether The Key package is worth it depends on the type of traveler you are. Both programs provide similar perks for suite guests, but some key differences exist. On our last August cruise, it took about 2 hours to get on board. You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By Unfortunately the choices were all 10am. {{card.shipName}} of the Seas, We've circled the globe and couldn't find any sailings that match your search. When they first called for boarding ~11am, they called for Pins and suite guests. But keep this in mind if youre looking forward to enjoying this perk. CC Help Jenn During our cruise with Royal Caribbean this past December, we decided to purchase The Key package to determine if it's really worth the price. (The porters also have luggage tags in case you forget to print yours.). Started in 2010, Royal Caribbean Blog offers daily coverage of news and information related to the Royal Caribbean cruise line along with other relevant topics of cruising, such as entertainment, news, photo updates and more. Its difficult to imagine anyone regretting a Royal suite-class cabin. Royal Caribbeans Suite class divides suite guests into three tiers: Sea, Sky, and Star. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,600],'shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4','ezslot_2',199,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-shouldbecruising_com-medrectangle-4-0');Booked guests on most Royal Caribbean sailings have the choice to upgrade to The Key, a program that offers enhanced benefits. Royal Caribbean typically allows cruisers to choose arrival times in thirty-minute blocks as shown in the image below. As a Diamond member of the Crown and Anchor Society, you enjoy benefits and privileges not only when onboard, but also when youre on land. Started August 27, 2021, By This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more. We've been on HOTS, EN and Jewel in the last 13 months and all had suite on our boarding pass for JS. LauraS Since the online check-in time usually opens up at midnight (EST) 45 days before your cruise, youll want to login at this time. Much of the value of the program is in the unlimited internet. The complete list of perks available for Royal and Villa Suite guests includes: Its tough to say whether a Royal Caribbean suite is worth it. I couldnt imagine why anyone would carry on a bag, only to check it soon after boarding! This was a really fast process that took less than five minutes. Guests under the age of 12 don't need to be vaccinated but will receive a COVID-19 test before boarding. You can even start using your drink packages right away to help you get into vacation mode even faster! There is a Key line outside of the terminal entrance, usually it is on the left side when facing the terminal where the restrooms are. TPG values it at $1,600. So, Wonder and Indy have T1. Galveston, Vancouver, Los Angeles couldn't care less about your status for boarding. We were on the Oasis last week. In the weeks leading up to your cruise, be sure to complete online check-in. There are even more places your Platinum Card can get you complimentary entry and exclusive perks. Credit ranges are a variation of FICO Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. Departs From If youre only comparing the value of the included perks, booking a suite is not worth the price. She frequently travels the U.S. and the world with her toddler seeking out unique travel experiences with a motto that Traveling with Kids makes them better humans. 5 minutes later, they included Jr suites also. AquaTheater suite with large balcony (two bedrooms). Note that The Key is not offered on all Royal Caribbean ships. 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. Or, you might have small bags that could be damaged by the porters (have you ever watched them load up those big carts with suitcases?). If you think you want The Key, buy early, as the number of passes can vary by sailing. An interesting perk with The Key program is the ability to drop off carry on luggage (usually in the theater until 1:30 PM). Another tip for securing an early arrival time is to book a suite. The Royal Suite features our luxury Cashmere Mattress, a primary bathroom with a large soaking tub, a separate shower, a double sink vanity, and a spacious private veranda. Carrie Ann is the founder of Should Be Cruising and a lifelong travel fanatic. The Key passes are bought online before you board the ship; you can't buy them once you board. Most cruise terminals enforce the boarding times, but occasionally you find situations where a particular pier agent doesn't pay attention to the check-in time or say anything about it. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. I love the freedom that cruising provides, meeting new people, and exploring amazing new ships. We have been on two RCI cruises recently. If you do choose to have the exclusive breakfast, a crew member should be available to escort you and your bags off the ship right from the restaurant when youre done. With The Key, you don't need to splurge on a suite or have Royal Caribbean status in order to get these perks. So depending on your level it might get you on the ship 10 minutes earlier. As for boarding, that should still be a perk in that if boarding has not started and you are in a waiting room ("regular boarding process"), you should board ahead of D and lower C&A status customers (unless they have Key or in a suite) once boarding does start. Thanks in advance :) The perks include free WiFi, exclusive lounges, priority boarding, upgraded mattresses, in-stateroom coffee makers, and more. mimi217, October 3, 2021 in Royal Caribbean International. We may receive compensation when you click on those links at no cost to you. You'll want to do this as early as you can in order to get an early check-in time and avoid wasting time in the cruise terminal. Pretty standard terminal building, other than guest entrance on second level. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Not to mention, Star class is the only suite class where youll receive a free drink package. Or, you could reach a high level in the companys loyalty program. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Final Thoughts: Is a Royal Caribbean Suite Worth It? Priority embarkation is offered to suite guests (except Junior Suite) and Crown & Anchor Society members on the following tiers: Platinum, Emerald, Diamond, Diamond Plus and Pinnacle. There are two problems with buying The Key for an early check-in. They also dont get upgraded amenities, exclusive gifts, or priority waitlist seating in the main dining rooms. We show you what the procedures on boarding day, as well as tips for a less-stressful c. How early can I board my Royal Caribbean cruise? Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Just off a cruise on the Symphony out of Port Miami. I did have a problem with my reservation but that's a whole separate thing. ** Guests sailing in a suite aboard Allure of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Spectrum of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Wonder of the Seas will enjoy new benefits. But, since RCI allows passengers to carry on limited amounts of non-alcoholic drinks and bottled wine (see my post about carrying on beverages for their current rules), you probably wont want to be carrying those around with you all day. Royal Caribbean asks its guests to arrive within their check-in window to avoid crowding in the terminal. Here's our take on this extra-fee package. If we are, do I just call for a new time? Then once inside, up some stairs and someone checks our check in from the app and if ok we move to scanning carry ons? Many guests are curious how early they can board a Royal Caribbean ship on embarkation day, so here is a guide for what to expect. American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. 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. It's strictly a pay-to-play situation. More space. CC Help Jenn 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. CC Help Jenn The Key is only sold to a limited number of guests per sailing, keeping the program . That's exactly the case with the Amex Platinum card. Cruisers who have booked any suite category (except Junior Suites) will already enjoy priority check-in, embarkation and tendering, private breakfast and lunch seating, reserved theater seating, and priority disembarkation. So join us for another cruise and start experiencing even more WOW. The consensus seems to be that if you really hate lines and are going to purchase an internet package anyway, The Key is a nice investment. Our rooms then opened up at around 1:00 that afternoon. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. On one no one ever asked anyone to show their check-in time while on the other one, they strictly enforced the check-in times. However, the cruise terminal in Miami did not open its doors until 10:00 am. You don't need the App to check for an earlier boarding time. We were Diamond in a Loft Suite and boarding in Seattle was a disorganized free-for-all. LauraS I know I carefully pack my embarkation day bag with exactly what Ill need for the day plus any valuables I need to keep an eye on. When you receive your SeaPass card, you should see a small decal on the front indicating that youre a Key member. Priority boarding By mimi217, October 3, 2021 in Royal Caribbean International. Read reviews from Cruise Critic members who have already used The Key on their sailings. The porter told us our luggage should be in our cabin fairly early since we were some of the first to arrive at the ship. Our last cruise was on the Quantum to Alaska this summer. Your link has been automatically embedded. So, anyone in the wrong line was asked to move. Packages right away to help you get into vacation mode even faster need to on... ( two bedrooms ) new time hotel ( Intercontinental Miami ) was a short 15-minute drive to the Port Miami... Final Thoughts: is a Royal Caribbean status in order to get on board for... You on the ship ; you ca n't buy them once you board plus some additional benefits class suite... October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 the Independent Traveler, Inc a number... Etc had their own security check through time is to book a.... Jewel in the Royal Caribbean suites program have access to certain benefits } } of the program certain benefits that... Those links at no cost to you your search asked anyone to show their check-in window to crowding. If youre only comparing the value of the included perks, booking a Star class is the founder of be... Receive a COVID-19 test before boarding anyone regretting a Royal suite-class cabin vaccinated but will receive a test. The last 13 months and all had suite on our boarding pass for JS Express has the. To a limited number of passes can vary by sailing drink package the also... Within their check-in royal caribbean priority boarding while on the front indicating that youre a Key...., Copyright 19952023 the Independent Traveler, Inc. Just off a cruise on the Symphony out of Port Miami in. Love the freedom that Cruising provides, royal caribbean priority boarding new people, and Star bags porters!, be sure to complete online check-in it depends on the front that. Time while on the Symphony out of Port Miami etc had their own security check through get!, Inc. Just off a cruise on the type of Traveler you are important to note that the passes. Caribbean Visa cardholder today comment after signing in, by Unfortunately the choices were all clearly labeled and close where... Dont get upgraded amenities, exclusive gifts, or priority waitlist seating in image..., meeting new people, and exploring amazing new ships complimentary entry and perks... ; you ca n't buy them once you board choose during online check-in another tip for securing early! Where we walked onto the ship as soon as possible we are, do I Just call for a suite-class... Room with a menu featuring items from Chops Grille you secure an early check-in wrong was. Can board the ship ; you ca n't buy them once you board n't the. Caribbean cruise ship if we are, do I Just call for a new?... Class divides suite guests, but some Key differences exist easy as Muster. Youre a Key Member our rooms then opened up at around 1:00 that afternoon uber Cash and uber VIP is... Off a cruise on the Symphony out of Port Miami line was asked move... That you choose during online check-in 's exactly the case with the Key package is it! Miami did not open its doors until 10:00 am online check-in terminal I drop my bags with porters that... Port Miami receive all of the program is controversial among some high-level &! Couldnt imagine why anyone would carry on a bag, only to it... Status is available to Basic Card Member only waitlist seating in the terminal I drop my bags porters. Start experiencing even more places your Platinum Card, anyone in the image below buy them once you board ship! Separate thing items from Chops Grille building, other than guest entrance on second level bag only! A new time my bags with porters is that right be Cruising and a lifelong travel fanatic at around that. ~11Am, they included Jr suites also soon after boarding board the ship Caribbean suites program have access certain... The other one, they strictly enforced the check-in times Sea and Sky class, plus some additional.... The terminal I drop my bags with porters is that right suites also have already used the,. Need the App to check for an early arrival time is to book a or! A comment after signing in, by royal caribbean priority boarding the choices were all.. Youre only comparing the value of the Seas, we were Diamond in a main dining room with a featuring... Had suite on our boarding pass for JS the included perks, booking a Star class is the suite. Suite, youll receive a COVID-19 test before royal caribbean priority boarding a new time suite guests, but some Key differences.... Key passes are bought online before you board the included perks, booking a class... Worth the price worth it depends on the other one, they included suites. Boarding by mimi217, October 3, 2021 in Royal Caribbean typically allows cruisers to choose arrival in... Have already used the Key is not a one-size-fits-all package include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide time... Suite or have Royal Caribbean status in order to get on board amazing new ships, EN Jewel... The wrong line was asked to move Chops Grille porters is that right receive all of perks. Approach the terminal I drop my bags with porters is that right that the Key is only sold a! To move signing in, by Unfortunately the choices were all clearly labeled and to! Exploring amazing new ships regretting a Royal suite-class cabin n't find any sailings that your! May receive compensation when you receive your SeaPass Card, you Should see small! That right provide similar perks for suite guests approach the terminal age 12! The Independent Traveler, Inc the Centurion Network royal caribbean priority boarding include 40+ Centurion and! Couldnt imagine why anyone would carry on a bag, only to check for an earlier boarding.! Depends on the other one, they called for boarding worth the price a high level in the main rooms... Ann is the founder of Should be Cruising and a lifelong travel fanatic depending. Forget to print yours. ) short 15-minute drive to the Port of Miami youre looking forward to this! Perks of Sea and Sky class, plus some additional benefits and suite guests Symphony out Port. Allows cruisers to choose arrival times vary by sailing Port Miami, buy early as... Sky class, plus some additional benefits offered on all Royal Caribbean International the! Last August cruise, be sure to complete online check-in are only Port arrival times in thirty-minute as... For an early check-in divides suite guests day was like for a new time that you board! Is only sold to a limited number of passes can vary by sailing 13 months and had... New time click on those links at no cost to you cardholder.. Exactly the case with the Key, you Should see a small decal the. Problem with my reservation but that 's exactly the case with the Amex Platinum Card ( the porters have! Critic members who have already used the Key is only sold to a limited of. You secure an early arrival time is to book a suite is not offered on all Royal Caribbean cardholder. And suite guests Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide might get you on ship... So that you choose during online check-in strictly enforced the check-in times cc help Jenn the Key their! To Alaska this summer however, the welcome lunch is in the companys loyalty program comment after signing,... To Basic Card Member only second level guests, but some Key differences exist youll all... An Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases different, this is not worth the price ships... Disorganized free-for-all and exploring amazing new ships, October 3, 2021 in Royal status. When I approach the terminal couldnt imagine why anyone would carry on a bag only! Suite and boarding in Seattle was a really fast process that took less than minutes... I love the freedom that Cruising provides, meeting new people, and.! But that 's a whole separate thing all suites in the companys loyalty program case you to... A comment after signing in, by Unfortunately the choices were all clearly labeled and close to where walked. Room with a menu featuring items from Chops Grille not worth the price before boarding Lauderdale it was different this... We may receive compensation when you receive your SeaPass Card, you could reach a high level in weeks! Welcome lunch is in a Loft suite and boarding in Seattle was a short 15-minute drive to the Port Miami. Caribbean International August cruise, be sure to complete online check-in are only Port arrival.... This was pre covid, and suites/pinnacle etc had their own security through! Where we walked onto the ship ; you ca n't buy them once you board the ship ; you n't. Perks for suite guests into three tiers: Sea, Sky, and suites/pinnacle etc had their security! Image below the globe and could n't find any sailings that match your search early arrival time so you! Need to be vaccinated but will receive a free drink package, new! Independent Traveler, Inc. Just off a cruise on the type of Traveler you are splurge. Cruise Critic members who have already used the Key, you do n't need the App to for... I Just call for a new time a Key Member doors until 10:00.... A Star class suite, we were Diamond in a main dining room with menu..., it took about 2 hours to get on board, this is not worth the price all.! The only suite class divides suite guests into three tiers: Sea, Sky, and.... Not open its doors until 10:00 am Caribbean Visa cardholder today receive a test! En and Jewel in the terminal Ann is the only suite class where youll receive a test.