The Key and lunch

[Tweetybird]

I purchased The Key for our Mariner of the Seas cruise in December.  It is my understanding that this includes lunch at either Chops Grille or Jamie Italian.  Do we have to make a reservation for this lunch?  If not, how do we ensure we get to eat on embarkation day at one of these restaurants after boarding?  How will the restaurant know that we purchased The Key?  Thanks in advance.

[JohnK6404]

18 minutes ago, Tweetybird said:

I purchased The Key for our Mariner of the Seas cruise in December.  It is my understanding that this includes lunch at either Chops Grille or Jamie Italian.  Do we have to make a reservation for this lunch?  If not, how do we ensure we get to eat on embarkation day at one of these restaurants after boarding?  How will the restaurant know that we purchased The Key?  Thanks in advance.

Hi @Tweetybird !

No, you cannot make reservations prior to your cruise for the complimentary Key lunch unfortunately. I believe you need to arrive between 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM (check the description in the Cruise Planner to be sure) to take advantage of the complimentary lunch. It's first come, first served during that period. 

We purchased the Key on our Allure cruise this past May. All you need to do is go to the restaurant during that time period (earlier is better) and they will look up your cruise reservation in the computer at the check-in desk and will know you have purchased the Key. I would also hang on to your SetSail Pass which should also note that you have the Key.

We had our Key lunch at Chops Grille around noon on embarkation day... To be honest, the restaurant was not crowded. I'm not sure if they block it for Key and maybe suite guests only during those 2 designated hours? What's also nice is that your cabin should be ready when you finish your lunch!