Look, I'm not a massive fan of pay-for-perks programs. Having worked in the cruise industry, I can tell you all you really need to do is show up at the right time. But hey, these programs are a big deal for some folks, so let's break down what you get (or don't get) for your hard-earned cash.
Faster to the Fun by Carnival Cruise Line
Pricing
Ranges from $39.95 to $119.95 per stateroom, depending on your cruise length and destination.
What You Get
Priority boarding, early access to your room, and fast-tracked luggage.
Need help? You'll get a dedicated guest service hotline.
Priority seating at dinners and quicker exits off the ship.
My Take: If you can't stand queues and want everything to be super streamlined, maybe this is for you. But honestly, planning your boarding time carefully can get you many of these same perks for free.
The Key by Royal Caribbean
Pricing
Expect to shell out around $19.99 to $34.99 per person per day, depending on your specific sailing.
What You Get
Skip the lines and get to your onboard activities faster.
Priority seating at shows.
The internet is included, and you'll get a swanky lounge for embarkation and debarkation days.
My Take: Given the high daily rate, this package better be making your cruise truly VIP. However, with a little planning, you can enjoy similar benefits without splashing the cash.
Priority Access by Norwegian Cruise Line
Pricing
Costs vary between $99 to $179 per person based on cruise length.
What You Get
Fast-track your way through security and boarding.
Priority tender tickets to shore.
A faster way off the ship and some complimentary bottled water for the trip.
My Take: The one-time fee might make this more palatable than a per-day charge. But again, if you're savvy with your timing, do you really need to pay extra for this?
Final Thoughts
Look, there are plenty of ways to be an informed cruiser without shelling out extra for these programs. A bit of homework—knowing the ship's layout, the activity schedule, and even when to best hit the dining rooms—can go a long way. You can enjoy many of the 'perks' these packages offer just by being savvy and planning ahead.
And let's talk about those "special" reserved areas, particularly with The Key. Just because you get a 'priority' seat doesn't mean it's the best in the house. In many cases, these sections don't offer the best views or audio quality. So, you might actually be paying more for a less-than-ideal experience.
However, I'm still very willing to try it. And, if you're looking for everything t be taken care of for you without having to think ahead too much, I can see the appeal.
In short, these pay-for-perks programs aren't always the golden ticket they're made out to be. With a little effort and planning, you can have a VIP experience on your own terms, no extra fees required. Or, just go ahead and book a suite 😉 .
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