So, how do you secure an early arrival time so that you can board the ship as soon as possible? Flash the digital pass to the entry staff, they see it says SUITE and they wave you thru. Sure, it's not a must-purchase program but it is a fantastic option to have. We were at the port ~10:20 and our boarding time was 12:30-1pm. Since your luggage isnt guaranteed to arrive in your room before dinner, youll want to make sure you have everything you need ahead of time. 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. These are not the times you actually board the ship. Onboard Oasis and Quantum Class ships, Grand Suites are considered to be part of the Sky Classtier of the Royal Suite Class. 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. A Junior Suite on a 7-night Greek Isles cruise on Odyssey of the Seas departing in August 2024 starts at $2,423 per person, based on double occupancy. There are two problems with buying The Key for an early check-in. She said you should have called him before entering the terminal. Suffice to say, the pricing of a Grand Suite can vary. Check-in opens up 45 days before your cruise begins. In addition to having a private beach away from the crowds, you will also have upgraded lunch offerings compared to the other buffets. Priority embarkation is not available in Vancouver or ports in Australia, for example. While offerings can change at any time, and usually vary slightly between ships, benefits of the Key Program usually include: Priority access to the terminal upon arrival at the port Carry on bag delivery to your stateroom Welcome lunch in the main dining room with selections from Chops Grille Do you know about when you'd like to sail? Expand Do you have any experience with Bayonne and what they have for suites at the terminal? The couple flagged down another worker and told her about the Genie and she took them out of the line and immediately got of hold of the Genie for them. If booking one interests you, it is best to conduct your own research or reach out to a travel agent who can assist you with the booking process. About a week before the cruise, the Suite Concierge will email suite guests with an introduction and outline basic suite policies, including a flexible arrival policy, where suite guests can arrive one hour before or after their check-in time. The perks include free WiFi, exclusive lounges, priority boarding, upgraded mattresses, in-stateroom coffee makers, and more. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. For a full list of items that my family and I pack on a cruise vacation, you can check out my Cruise Packing List article. However, that will probably slow down some as RCI takes on more passengers each cruise. Same questions on The Key at this point. Priority tender boarding At tender ports, where the ship ferries passengers to shore using smaller boats, Key members can take advantage of priority boarding when going ashore. Once inside whether there continues to be separation for the Key depends on when you arrive. In the weeks leading up to your cruise, be sure to complete online check-in. In addition to being able to utilize the concierge, you will also have access to a private onboard lounge. Our hotel (Intercontinental Miami) was a short 15-minute drive to the Port of Miami. First, we recommend choosing your port arrival time before completing anything else during online check in. You can always show up at the terminal early and hope they arent enforcing check-in times. Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. I intend to cushion the drive heavily and in the absence of any on road issues we'll roll in well before even the earliest check in time. What port was this? ** 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. When will it be available? A few weeks before our cruise one of ourcruise critic members posted that they were able to change there check-in time to 12:00. You can read more about me here-Meet Shari. For a 3-night vacation, you would earn 3 points, for a 7-night cruise, you would earn 7, and so on. He also directed us on exactly where to go and made certain we understood we needed passports/identification documents. A second way to grab an early port arrival time is by purchasing The Key. The Key is an optional add-on you can purchase to get VIP benefits, including an early check-in time. 1 download. Show more Royal Caribbean. In that post, we provide tips for staying organized and packing for your trip. In addition to breakfast, Grand Suite (and above) guests are also offered private seating for lunch. In comparison, a standard ocean view balcony is currently going for $1,988 per person. In Lauderdale it was different, this was pre covid, and suites/pinnacle etc had their own security check through. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Special Event: Q&A with Rudi Schreiner, President, Co-Founder & Co-Owner - AmaWaterways River Cruises, Q&A with Avoya Travel: Learn How to Turn Your Passion into Success by Becoming an Independent Travel Advisor. Then, youll proceed to the check-in desk, where an agent will help you complete the process. (Although its not required, its nice to give a dollar or two per bag as a tip.) Get there before 11am and you will wait upstairs until the ship is cleared and boarding starts at around 11:30. Announcing Our 2023 Cruisers' Choice Award Winners! (Make sure you watched and marked off the Safety video in the app the morning of your cruise.). If your documents are not yet available, check back soon. 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. If not, just leave blank, Royal Caribbean bathrobes (for onboard use only), Suite Lounge/Concierge Club access with horsdoeuvres and cocktails every evening), Priority dining, spa, and shore excursion bookings, Ability to order from the Main Dining Room for in-suite dining (during operating hours), Private breakfast and lunch seating (location varies by ship and sailing), Complimentary pressing on first formal night. 2x points on all other eligible purchases. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. You must have JavaScript enabled to use this form. So, continue reading below to find out everything you need to know about how to get an early boarding time on Royal Caribbean, so you can get started on your vacation as soon as possible! Royal Caribbean's Star Class guests also receive priority disembarkation, unlimited VOOM internet, and invitations to exclusive signature events. (He was right!) Many more perks are available in higher suite tiers. Usually, guests who book The Key are allowed to check-in with the first group (an exact time will be emailed later). You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. This will help you make the most out of your day in port. VisitRoyal Suite Classto learn more. We know youre eager to arrive at the cruise port for your Royal Caribbean cruise. To ensure the shortest wait possible, make sure to check in and set up your onboard account online or using your cruise lines mobile app ahead of time. You can also do it via the website Cruise Planner check-in process: For more cruise news, guides and tips, sign up for TPGs cruise newsletter. is a journalist specializing in luxury family travel and the blogger behind The Daily Impressions. Once at the Muster Station, you just scan your SetSail Pass. If youre catching a plane, when to fly in for your cruise depends on several factors. Guests who pay for this upgraded status typically receive priority access upon arrival on embarkation day. The junior suites onboard the Oasis of the Seas measure 287 square feet with a balcony size of 80 square feet making them much roomier than the average stateroom. Basically, it's your chance to get to the fun faster and receive VIP access to certain activities. Get there too early and you'll be fighting with the traffic for all those leaving the cruise that is disembarking (and all the other cruises disembarking at the other Miami terminals). ** Carry-on luggage drop-off service is limited to two pieces per guest and can weigh no more than 25 pounds per carry-on. The Key program is Royal Caribbean's initiative to give guests access to premier and exclusive cruise services and activities while on board for a small additional fee. Ask when should I arrive for my cruise? and you likely mean one of two things: When should you arrive in your ships departure port city before your sailing or when should you arrive at the cruise terminal on embarkation day? The cost of The Key can vary from ship to ship, as well as itinerary. 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 was a huge relief from the typical check-in desk with long check-in lines we have experienced in the past. This makes it easy to undress them poolside, and they can hop right in. ago. What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships? If you are wanting an elevated cruising experience, you might be considering booking a suite on your next Royal Caribbean cruise. This was super fast and easy as the Muster Stations were all clearly labeled and close to where we walked onto the ship. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card, Southwest unveils stunning new Hawaii-themed aircraft, How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value, IHG Rewards Premier Business card review: The annual fee is justified. Grand Suites on older ships often do not cost as much. After check-in, youll head up the gangway and onto the ship, where security will scan your card to log that youve boarded. (driving in so coming from parking deck). Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. We make sure to pack several items in our backpack, which I will include below: Youll notice that many of the items listed above are needed because our kids swim on embarkation day. Since the Suite Lounge/Concierge Club is open during the day, it is a great place to escape for a little bit to recharge without returning to your stateroom. In 2018, Royal Caribbean rolled out "The Key." On the Cruise Critic boards, people have reported paying between $19.99 to $29.99 and even up to $37 per day for each person in the cabin. 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. Your email address will not be published. When I approach the terminal I drop my bags with porters is that right? They will help with anything from booking shore excursions and dining reservations at specialty restaurants, to settling billing discrepancies, checking in for your return flight, and escorting you off the ship on disembarkation day. Is The White Lotus breaking up with Four Seasons ahead of Season 3? One perk of staying in a Grand Suite is that you will have access to complimentary backstage tours. Tip: When you receive your SeaPass card on board, there will be a small sticker on the card to verify your status. So effectively to make the most of it, arrive as early as you can. Once we walked to the entrance of Terminal Building A, we saw two separate lines: a LONG line on the left and a short line on the right. Normally, you get one Crown & Anchor loyalty point for each night of the cruise. Note that The Key is not offered on all Royal Caribbean ships. A All suites in the Royal Caribbean Suites program have access to certain benefits. Alternatively, if you have upper-tier loyalty status, youre booked in a high-end suite or youve purchased one of several perks packages (like Carnival Cruise Lines Faster to the Fun, Royal Caribbean Internationals The Key or Norwegian Cruise Lines Priority Access), you can arrive at any time to take advantage of priority boarding or special embarkation lounge access to make your wait more comfortable. (They do sell out.). 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. 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. This benefit will only be applicable to those whose itinerary includes a stop in Labadee, Haiti. They are larger, especially on the newer ships in the fleet. Read more:Heres what The Key is (and why some cruisers like it). Terms and Conditions Apply. Like what you see? Reserved seating section in select entertainment venues (reservations required) Suite Lounge Access (complimentary hors d'oeuvres and cocktails each evening) Access to Suite Sun Deck. We enjoy being on the ship early to take advantage of as much time on board as possible. When can I check-in for my Royal Caribbean cruise? Your Key purchase is noted on your card by a special icon. Read reviews from Cruise Critic members who have already used The Key on their sailings. Once you've booked a cruise, go to Royal Caribbean's site, log in to your account and click on "Cruise Planner." I dont understand why people get upset when RCI clearly states on multiple locations to show-up during your check-in window. All suites in the Royal Caribbean Suites program have access to certain benefits. *** Welcome lunch is open from 12:00 pm - 1:30 pm. If we are, do I just call for a new time? Guests should arrive at the terminal within the arrival time slot you selected during Royal App check-in. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. 2023 Mom's Plan-it Vacation Blog - WordPress Theme by Kadence WP, Are the Royal Caribbean Drink Packages Worth It? If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small compensation at no extra cost to you. We are Crown and Anchor Diamond and I'm wondering if we qualify for priority check in. From the Cruise Planner, click toedit your check-in: Txs. While showing up early can be a problem, coming in later is not as much of a concern. Heres everything you need to know about the perks you can receive when staying in a Grand Suite. I pack sunscreen to apply before swimming, and we carry on other essentials that we need before dinner. *with the exception of Vancouver, Canada and any Australian ports**limited to two pieces of luggage per guest; each bag must weigh less than 25 pounds. But how early can you board the cruise ship? If you are talking about Terminal A at Port of Miami, you will drive around to the drop-off/pick-up area and offload your luggage with a porter. Be prepared with this information when your concierge reaches out to you, which will be about a week or so before departure. What is the Jones Act and how does it affect cruise ships? Then, the dads in our group took the kids to the pool so that they could swim in virtually empty swimming areas. Those who arrive early will not be able to begin boarding, and those who arrive late will need to wait until we are able to work them into anoth. I don't even ask, I go to the Suite line and stay there. You don't need the App to check for an earlier boarding time. You will not have to worry about arriving early and locating a seat, as the main theatre, Studio B, AquaTheatre, and Two70 all have reserved seating for suite guests. Opinions expressed here are the authors alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities. We were technically allowed to arrive an hour before this 10:30 slot since we were suite guests. This is where I saw it last and was dated 08/24/2021. However, the earlier your arrival time, the sooner you are usually able to embark on the ship. You can follow her daily exploits, both at sea and on land, on Instagram or Twitter @slyjabroni. You can easily loop back around to park after dropping off the luggage. Royal Caribbean's Junior Suites don't have many perks over a regular Balcony Stateroom. All rights reserved. Is there any special line at this point for The Key? Priority boarding from a TA usually means nothing. Royal Caribbean offers a wide range of autism friendly products and services, and they include: Priority check-in, boarding and departure Special dietary accommodations including gluten-free and dairy-free Adventure Ocean flexible grouping by ability for children 3 to 11 years old Adventure Ocean toilet-trained policy exception In cases where you dont receive a keycard at check-in, it will be waiting for you either at your cabin door or inside your room. 2. Signage for The Key will usually be found at the terminal where you embark and also at various points around the ship. However, once you finally arrive at the port and board the ship, all your worries are washed away. Read on to find out the answers, as well as when you should plan to arrive in your departure city before you set sail. All rights reserved. If you do not complete check-in online, you will be required to complete this process at the pier at least two hours prior to the published sailing time. Several years ago, I decided to start this blog to document our family trips. What Food Is Included on a Royal Caribbean Cruise? 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. Royal Caribbean International Priority boarding Announcing Our 2023 Cruisers' Choice Award Winners! First time cruisers: What time to get to the cruise port for your Royal Caribbean cruise? Note that boarding did come to a stop at one point. Plus, your own feed of TPG content. Related: 27 cruise ship embarkation day dos and donts. You can even start using your drink packages right away to help you get into vacation mode even faster! If you already get a host of perks through being a high-status Crown & Anchor member or will be getting benefits through booking a suite, it might not be worth the money. It's important to note that these times that you choose during online check-in are only port arrival times. You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Are Royal Caribbean Internet Packages Worth It? Grandeur, for instance, only has sixteen Grand Suites, two of which are the larger 2-bedroom option. Royal Caribbean warns there could be a delay in beginning the check-in procedure if you're late, but you will still be able to get to the cruise. Most cruise ships require all passengers to be on board no fewer than one to two hours before the scheduled departure time, which is almost always in the late afternoon or evening. The day your cruise begins is full of excitement, and naturally, you may be wondering what time you can board the ship. Those staying in a Grand Suite, however, will get two points per night. Inside the building everyone wore a mask. It is my understanding that with the exception of suite guest, who can check in up to an hour ahead of their scheduled time, priority boarding is not being used during COVID. Savings on in-flight purchases: Receive a 25% discount on in-flight food and beverage purchases when you use your credit card to . The Key program is Royal Caribbean's initiative to give guests access to premier and exclusive cruise services and activities while on board for a small additional fee. Check here before booking an award fare. Required fields are marked *, document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a5bba5e9528c15d27c649f19a0dc456c" );document.getElementById("d5aa0859c9").setAttribute( "id", "comment" );Comment *. Instead, cruisers can pick from almost any cocktail, beer, and many wines. Just present your SeaPass card as usual to have access to these amenities. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. If youre anything like us, we have a small family and always intend to spend 95% of our time out of our room. First, if you miss The Key check-in window, you have to fall back to whatever time you had before. You'll need to buy The Key for every guest in the cabin (age 6 and above) for every night of the cruise. When to Book Entertainment on Royal Caribbean. Since the online check-in time usually opens up at midnight (EST) 45 days before your cruise, youll want to login at this time. Many terminals have a separate seating area in the terminal for Suites and Pinnacle if you arrive before the ship has commenced boarding. The Key is available on all Royal Caribbean ships. How can you ensure youre prepared to start your vacation on the right foot? 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. The trick is knowing when that will be. See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. The per-person cost varies based on your ship and the time that you choose to purchase the package. You should also receive an e-mail when your documents are ready. Certain hotels have resort fees. In short, purchasing The Key package comes down to your budget and desire for some exclusive benefits. In order to complete Check-In successfully, you will need the following: Personal Information for each guest An Onboard Expense Account, also known as your Seapass onboard account, is the cashless system used for all onboard purchases and services. Find the right card for you. HEIC is not a standard web format. The Key is Royal Caribbean's way of giving extra benefits to cruisers who want a more VIP experience onboard (or simply want to make sure that they can skip the lines). The new method has worked so well that it has largely remained in place for most cruise lines. In order to complete Check-In successfully, you will need the following: Personal Information for each guest . Upload or insert images from URL. I only ask because we're driving from Virginia to Titusville day before and those last 3.5 hours to Miami morning of embarkation. Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. has spent more than 15 years writing about travel, with particular emphasis on cruises. Depending on when you go to select a time, there will be variety of 30 minute windows for you to choose from. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card, Southwest unveils stunning new Hawaii-themed aircraft, How to redeem Chase Ultimate Rewards points for maximum value, IHG Rewards Premier Business card review: The annual fee is justified. It is their job to help make your cruise and suite experience as enjoyable as possible. Have you ever wanted to get a behind-the-scenes look of a cruise ship? If you are hoping to climb the Crown & Anchor loyalty ladder faster, this is one way to do it!