Thanks so much for the kind words, and taking the time to provide feedback as it's super useful.
I don't think the key card thing is a you problem. It was honestly a last minute addition. There are some other places where I've implied some stuff without being super direct about it. For example Soggy Jack has a treasure map, that could lead the players to the treasure in the ocean simulator. I think maybe a little bit of this might be ok in a trifold format as your word count is limited - but too much of it might confuse the warden, and make it more difficult to run.
I think the hook / the ability to nope out is an issue with this adventure. I do think I need to flesh out the hook to better motivate the players. It's definitely something I plan on looking at.
Thanks again for the feedback, I really appreciate it :)