It is recommended to find the sunken ship before finding the Captain's Key, then revisit the previous clue locations to gather the key. Though it is not necessary for voyage completion, it is wise to find this key due to the additional treasure it provides.
The Captain's Key is located among these clues. On the way towards the shipwreck there will be multiple clues found among Barrels of Plenty and on islands along the way. During the Voyage, players will gain access to a Trade Route to find a shipwreck. The Captain's Key can only be acquired during Lost Shipment Voyages issued by the Merchant Alliance.