Royal Caribbean: The Key Just Got Even Better With New 2025 Perks
Royal Caribbean: The Key has been upgraded for 2025 with two new perks—50% off sports activities and $60 off spa treatments. Here’s the full breakdown of what’s new, who it benefits most, and whether the VIP pass is worth adding to your next cruise.
If you’ve ever looked at ways to make your Royal Caribbean cruise smoother and more comfortable, chances are you’ve come across The Key. It’s the cruise line’s VIP-style package that combines priority services, internet, and exclusive extras into one bundle.
Since launching in 2018, The Key has been a hot topic among Royal Caribbean fans—praised by some as a stress-saving convenience, and questioned by others who weigh the cost against the actual value. Now, in 2025, Royal Caribbean has upgraded The Key with two exciting new perks, making it more appealing than ever.
So, what’s changed? And is it finally worth it for your next sailing?
What’s New for 2025: Two Extra Perks
1. 50% Off Sports Activities
This is a big win for families and active cruisers. Previously, The Key offered 25% off certain sports activities like FlowRider surfing lessons. That discount has now doubled to 50%.
Example: A FlowRider group lesson on Utopia of the Seas costs $79 per person. With The Key, it drops to just $39.50.
For a family of four, that’s a saving of nearly $160 on one activity alone.
Other eligible activities may include fitness classes, sports clinics, or instructor-led sessions, depending on the ship. For families with teenagers or adventurous adults, this perk can easily offset a chunk of The Key’s daily cost.
2. $60 Off a $250 Spa Purchase
The second addition is all about indulgence. Guests now get $60 off when they spend $250 or more at the spa.
A 75-minute hot stone massage usually costs $259. With the discount, it comes down to $199—which is roughly the price of a 50-minute session.
Treatments like facials, aromatherapy, or couples’ massages are also included, provided the bill reaches the $250 threshold.
This is particularly appealing for couples or solo travellers who want to treat themselves without feeling guilty about the price tag.
Do note: the credit is one-time use, non-transferable, and doesn’t apply to gratuities or taxes.
What’s Already Included with The Key
While these two perks are new, the core benefits of The Key remain unchanged. Here’s the full list of what’s included:
Priority boarding during your designated arrival time
Carry-on bag drop with delivery straight to your stateroom
Exclusive welcome lunch in the Main Dining Room on embarkation day
20% off specialty dining if booked on Day 1
Faster access to selected onboard activities (great for popular attractions)
Priority tendering when the ship anchors offshore
Reserved seating at top entertainment shows (Royal Theater, AquaTheater, Studio B, Two70)
VOOM Surf + Stream internet for one device per guest
Exclusive à la carte breakfast on departure morning
Together with the new spa and sports discounts, this makes Royal Caribbean: The Key one of the most comprehensive VIP-style passes at sea.
How Much Does The Key Cost?
Pricing for The Key typically ranges between $24.99 and $49.99 per person, per day, depending on the sailing and ship.
On a 4-night sailing at $38.99/day, you’d pay around $156 per person.
For a family of four, that’s roughly $624 in total for the cruise.
It’s important to note that The Key is sold per person, not per cabin, and everyone in the cabin must purchase it if one person does.
Is Royal Caribbean: The Key Worth It?
The answer really depends on your style of cruising.
✅ Best For:
Families with kids or teens who want to take advantage of multiple sports activities. The 50% discount can quickly add up.
Couples or solo travellers who plan to visit the spa—saving $60 on a single treatment goes a long way.
First-time cruisers who value the stress-free experience of priority boarding, baggage help, and reserved seating.
❌ Not Great For:
Guests who don’t plan to do sports activities or spa treatments.
Travellers who are already Loyalty Crown & Anchor members at a high tier and get some similar perks (like priority boarding or seating).
Budget-conscious guests who would rather spend that money on excursions, drinks packages, or specialty dining.
How Does The Key Compare to Other Options?
Some guests compare The Key to other packages:
VOOM Internet: Buying internet alone is cheaper, but The Key includes it with extra perks.
Royal Genie (for suites): A much more premium service, offering a personal concierge, priority everywhere, and VIP access. The Key is a budget-friendly alternative.
Just Boarding Early: Loyalty members at Diamond and above already enjoy early boarding, so the boarding perk is less valuable for them.
In short, The Key sits in a sweet spot: a mid-tier upgrade that gives you more comfort than the standard experience, without the luxury price tag of a suite.
Final Verdict
Royal Caribbean: The Key has always been about saving time, reducing stress, and adding comfort. With the 2025 upgrade, it also delivers more financial value.
Families can save big on sports activities.
Adults can enjoy spa treatments for less.
Everyone still benefits from internet, reserved show seating, and smoother boarding.
If you’ve ever sat on the fence about The Key, these new perks could be the deciding factor for your next cruise.