How different is Anthem of the Seas from Oasis of the Seas?

Both Royal Caribbean ships come from different classes, but are similar in that they've become cruiser favorites. 

Both ships have been known to sail similar itineraries, both offering a host of exciting activities onboard.

So which one is better, and how do the two compare?

The most obvious difference is that the two ships are from different Royal Caribbean classes. Think of it ship classes like car models in how they are grouped together.

Oasis of the Seas, launched in 2009, was the first ship in the famous Oasis Class.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Oasis Class Ships by Age

Anthem of the Seas, in contrast, was released later, in 2015, as the second vessel in the Quantum Class.

Oasis is larger, with the capacity for more passengers

Although Oasis of the Seas was released before Anthem of the Seas, the oldest ship still wins out as more spacious.

Anthem has a capacity for 4,905 passengers, while Oasis of the Seas carries almost 2,000 more guests at 6,780 passengers.

Oasis of the Seas also measures 1,187 feet long to Anthem's 1,141 feet and 225,282 gross tons versus Anthem's 168,666 gross tons.

The Oasis Class as a whole, is one of Royal Caribbean's biggest classes of ships (rivaled only by the Icon Class).

While the Quantum Class features innovative and large ships, Anthem's size doesn't compare to Oasis.

Oasis of the Seas even has distinct neighborhoods to break up a large amount of space. The seven neighborhoods onboard are The Boardwalk, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Royal Promenade, Central Park, Entertainment Place, Youth Zone, and Vitality Spa and Fitness.

Oasis' age isn't necessarily a downside. She was Amplified in 2019, and now has new dining venues, waterslides, and a re-designed pool deck.

Dining venues and bars abound on both ships

Both ships have a variety of options when it comes to dining venues and bars.

Although the two share a few venues, some vary between them.

Anthem of the Seas has the following complimentary dining venues onboard:

• The Main Dining room
• Windjammer
• Seaplex Dog House
• Solarium Bistro
• Cafe @ Two70
• Sorrento's
• Cafe Promenade
• Coastal Kitchen (for suite guests only)

In contrast, Oasis of the Seas has a few more complimentary venues: 

• The Main Dining Room
• Windjammer Buffet
• Solarium Bistro
• Park Cafe
• Cafe Promenade
• Sorrento’s Pizza
• Boardwalk Dog House
• El Loco Fresh
• Vitality Cafe
• Coastal Kitchen (suites only)

If specialty dining is a priority for you, it's important to know that Anthem has fewer options than Oasis of the Seas.

Anthem has the following specialty venues:

• Chops Grille
• Chef's Table
• Jamie's Italian
• Wonderland
• Izumi Sushi
• Johnny Rockets (lunch and dinner)
• La Patisserie

Both ships feature cruiser favorites in the dining arena, such as Chops Grille and Chef's Table.

However, if you're looking for something more unique, venues such as Wonderland and Jamie's Italian put a special spin on the Royal Caribbean dining experience.

Oasis of the Seas has a multitude of specialty dining onboard, making it a great option if you're considering purchasing a specialty dining package onboard.

Oasis has 12 specialty venues:

• 150 Central Park
• Chef’s Table
• Chops Grille
• Giovanni’s Table
• Izumi Sushi & Hibachi
• Johnny Rockets (lunch and dinner)
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Portside BBQ
• Vintages Wine Bar
• Starbucks
• Sugar Beach
• Johnny Rockets

Bars abound on both ships. Nearly every pool area and lounge will have a bar nearby, as well as many of the restaurants. 

Both ships have the popular Bionic Bar, featuring robot bartenders.

There are 14 bars on Anthem of the Seas:

• Schooner Bar
• Music Hall
• Boleros
• Pool bar
• North Star bar
• Solarium Bar
• Casino bar
• Bionic Bar
• Two70 Bar
• Vintages
• Brass & Bock Pub
• Diamond Club
• Suite Lounge
• Sky bar

Oasis of the Seas has 16 bars:

• Casino bar
• Jazz on 4
• Blaze Comedy
• Diamond Club
• Spotlight Karaoke
• Boleros
• Globe & Atlas Pub
• Rising Tide Bar
• Bionic Bar
• Schooner Bar
• Playmakers
• Trellis Bar
• Vintages Wine Bar
• Music Hall
• Solarium Bar
• Wipeout Bar

Anthem features tech-savvy virtual balcony cabins

Because Anthem is a newer ship, she features technological innovations that outshine Oasis of the Seas.

Anthem has dozens of unique stateroom categories.

One innovative stateroom onboard is the virtual balcony, an HD screen that brings a live ocean view to all windowless cabins onboard.

This budget-friendly method gives cruisers the price of an interior cabin, combined with the views of a balcony cabin.

Anthem also has great staterooms for families, and even for solo travelers, such as her studio balcony cabins.

However, Oasis of the Seas has 706 more cabins onboard, with 2796 cabins to Anthem's 2090.

If you're looking at popular sailings on each ship, your preferred stateroom category on Anthem of the Seas could sell out faster. 

Read more: Oasis of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

What activities are available on each ship?

When it comes to activities and pool areas, both ships have a lot to offer.

Anthem of the Seas features the SeaPlex (an indoor sports court), the Ripcord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the North Star observation capsule.

Oasis of the Seas has gained notoriety for its range of activities. Cruisers can ice skate, play mini-golf, ride on a zipline, use dry and water slides, play laser tag, and ride a carousel while onboard.

Both ships also have multiple pools and hot tubs, as well as the FlowRider surf simulator.

Anthem of the Seas makes for a much better ship for cold-weather sailing, thanks to its indoor facilities and activities.

On the other hand, Oasis of the Seas is a popular ship for Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries. Its size ensures that there's no end to the fun onboard.

Both vessels have Broadway musicals but differ in entertainment venues

Both Anthem of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas feature high-quality, non-stop entertainment.

However, the two ships have very different entertainment venues onboard.

Anthem's main entertainment venues are the Royal Theater, Two70, and the Music Hall.

The Royal Theater is a two-deck venue that hosts popular production shows, such as "We Will Rock You," a tribute to Queen's biggest hits.

The two-hour Broadway musical first debuted in London and has toured all over the world.

Two70 is located on Deck 5, covering the entire aft wall with panoramic windows. Six LED screens above the stage are controlled by robots to add to the visual effects.

"Spectra's Cabaret" plays inside the Two70 venue, as well as various trivia, events, and games.

The Music Hall serves as a two-deck venue suitable for live music, nightclub events, and karaoke.

On Oasis of the Seas, the main entertainment venues are the Royal Theater, the AquaTheater, and the Studio B ice-skating rink.

CATS shows in the Royal Theater. The ship’s Broadway musical tells the famous story of a tribe of cats. 

The Royal Theater also hosts comedians, game shows, and guest performers during any Oasis of the Seas sailing.

The outdoor AquaTheater features Aqua80, a thrilling water show with high diving, swimmers, acrobats, and aerialists performing to 80s era music.

How different is Anthem of the Seas from Oasis of the Seas?

Both Royal Caribbean ships come from different classes, but are similar in that they've become cruiser favorites. 

Both ships have been known to sail similar itineraries, both offering a host of exciting activities onboard.

So which one is better, and how do the two compare?

The most obvious difference is that the two ships are from different Royal Caribbean classes. Think of it ship classes like car models in how they are grouped together.

Oasis of the Seas, launched in 2009, was the first ship in the famous Oasis Class.

Read more: Royal Caribbean Oasis Class Ships by Age

Anthem of the Seas, in contrast, was released later, in 2015, as the second vessel in the Quantum Class.

Oasis is larger, with the capacity for more passengers

Although Oasis of the Seas was released before Anthem of the Seas, the oldest ship still wins out as more spacious.

Anthem has a capacity for 4,905 passengers, while Oasis of the Seas carries almost 2,000 more guests at 6,780 passengers.

Oasis of the Seas also measures 1,187 feet long to Anthem's 1,141 feet and 225,282 gross tons versus Anthem's 168,666 gross tons.

The Oasis Class as a whole, is one of Royal Caribbean's biggest classes of ships (rivaled only by the Icon Class).

While the Quantum Class features innovative and large ships, Anthem's size doesn't compare to Oasis.

Oasis of the Seas even has distinct neighborhoods to break up a large amount of space. The seven neighborhoods onboard are The Boardwalk, the Pool and Sports Zone, the Royal Promenade, Central Park, Entertainment Place, Youth Zone, and Vitality Spa and Fitness.

Oasis' age isn't necessarily a downside. She was Amplified in 2019, and now has new dining venues, waterslides, and a re-designed pool deck.

Dining venues and bars abound on both ships

Both ships have a variety of options when it comes to dining venues and bars.

Although the two share a few venues, some vary between them.

Anthem of the Seas has the following complimentary dining venues onboard:

• The Main Dining room
• Windjammer
• Seaplex Dog House
• Solarium Bistro
• Cafe @ Two70
• Sorrento's
• Cafe Promenade
• Coastal Kitchen (for suite guests only)

In contrast, Oasis of the Seas has a few more complimentary venues: 

• The Main Dining Room
• Windjammer Buffet
• Solarium Bistro
• Park Cafe
• Cafe Promenade
• Sorrento’s Pizza
• Boardwalk Dog House
• El Loco Fresh
• Vitality Cafe
• Coastal Kitchen (suites only)

If specialty dining is a priority for you, it's important to know that Anthem has fewer options than Oasis of the Seas.

Anthem has the following specialty venues:

• Chops Grille
• Chef's Table
• Jamie's Italian
• Wonderland
• Izumi Sushi
• Johnny Rockets (lunch and dinner)
• La Patisserie

Both ships feature cruiser favorites in the dining arena, such as Chops Grille and Chef's Table.

However, if you're looking for something more unique, venues such as Wonderland and Jamie's Italian put a special spin on the Royal Caribbean dining experience.

Oasis of the Seas has a multitude of specialty dining onboard, making it a great option if you're considering purchasing a specialty dining package onboard.

Oasis has 12 specialty venues:

• 150 Central Park
• Chef’s Table
• Chops Grille
• Giovanni’s Table
• Izumi Sushi & Hibachi
• Johnny Rockets (lunch and dinner)
• Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade
• Portside BBQ
• Vintages Wine Bar
• Starbucks
• Sugar Beach
• Johnny Rockets

Bars abound on both ships. Nearly every pool area and lounge will have a bar nearby, as well as many of the restaurants. 

Both ships have the popular Bionic Bar, featuring robot bartenders.

There are 14 bars on Anthem of the Seas:

• Schooner Bar
• Music Hall
• Boleros
• Pool bar
• North Star bar
• Solarium Bar
• Casino bar
• Bionic Bar
• Two70 Bar
• Vintages
• Brass & Bock Pub
• Diamond Club
• Suite Lounge
• Sky bar

Oasis of the Seas has 16 bars:

• Casino bar
• Jazz on 4
• Blaze Comedy
• Diamond Club
• Spotlight Karaoke
• Boleros
• Globe & Atlas Pub
• Rising Tide Bar
• Bionic Bar
• Schooner Bar
• Playmakers
• Trellis Bar
• Vintages Wine Bar
• Music Hall
• Solarium Bar
• Wipeout Bar

Anthem features tech-savvy virtual balcony cabins

Because Anthem is a newer ship, she features technological innovations that outshine Oasis of the Seas.

Anthem has dozens of unique stateroom categories.

One innovative stateroom onboard is the virtual balcony, an HD screen that brings a live ocean view to all windowless cabins onboard.

This budget-friendly method gives cruisers the price of an interior cabin, combined with the views of a balcony cabin.

Anthem also has great staterooms for families, and even for solo travelers, such as her studio balcony cabins.

However, Oasis of the Seas has 706 more cabins onboard, with 2796 cabins to Anthem's 2090.

If you're looking at popular sailings on each ship, your preferred stateroom category on Anthem of the Seas could sell out faster. 

Read more: Oasis of the Seas Cabins to Avoid

What activities are available on each ship?

When it comes to activities and pool areas, both ships have a lot to offer.

Anthem of the Seas features the SeaPlex (an indoor sports court), the Ripcord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and the North Star observation capsule.

Oasis of the Seas has gained notoriety for its range of activities. Cruisers can ice skate, play mini-golf, ride on a zipline, use dry and water slides, play laser tag, and ride a carousel while onboard.

Both ships also have multiple pools and hot tubs, as well as the FlowRider surf simulator.

Anthem of the Seas makes for a much better ship for cold-weather sailing, thanks to its indoor facilities and activities.

On the other hand, Oasis of the Seas is a popular ship for Caribbean and Mediterranean itineraries. Its size ensures that there's no end to the fun onboard.

Both vessels have Broadway musicals but differ in entertainment venues

Both Anthem of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas feature high-quality, non-stop entertainment.

However, the two ships have very different entertainment venues onboard.

Anthem's main entertainment venues are the Royal Theater, Two70, and the Music Hall.

The Royal Theater is a two-deck venue that hosts popular production shows, such as "We Will Rock You," a tribute to Queen's biggest hits.

The two-hour Broadway musical first debuted in London and has toured all over the world.

Two70 is located on Deck 5, covering the entire aft wall with panoramic windows. Six LED screens above the stage are controlled by robots to add to the visual effects.

"Spectra's Cabaret" plays inside the Two70 venue, as well as various trivia, events, and games.

The Music Hall serves as a two-deck venue suitable for live music, nightclub events, and karaoke.

On Oasis of the Seas, the main entertainment venues are the Royal Theater, the AquaTheater, and the Studio B ice-skating rink.

CATS shows in the Royal Theater. The ship’s Broadway musical tells the famous story of a tribe of cats. 

The Royal Theater also hosts comedians, game shows, and guest performers during any Oasis of the Seas sailing.

The outdoor AquaTheater features Aqua80, a thrilling water show with high diving, swimmers, acrobats, and aerialists performing to 80s era music.

Royal Caribbean has been forced to cancel a cruise due to the conflict in the region of the Red Sea.

Guests booked on the October 14, 2024 sailing of Anthem of the Seas were informed by Royal Caribbean that they have decided to cancel a Middle East cruise because of concerns for the ship's safety.

A rise of attacks since October 2023 on commercial ships in the southern Red Sea and Gulf of Aden by the Houthis has greatly impacted tourism in the area. This includes pirate activity and even drones to attack ships in the area.

There have been more than 60 recorded attacks so far, and the incidents have drawn a military response from a number of countries, including the United States.

"We have all been closely monitoring the unrest in the Red Sea and were hopeful everything would settle down. Unfortunately, due to security risks and with the safety of our guests and crew top of mind, we've made the difficult decision that Anthem of the Seas will instead have to transit around the southern tip of Africa."

Instead of sailing through the Suez Canal, Anthem of the Seas will sail without any passengers around Africa.

Anthem of the Seas was to sail through the Suez Canal as part of a repositioning from Southampton, UK to her new homeport in Singapore. It's not clear yet if any of the scheduled sailings from Singapore will be affected.

The cruise industry has had to reroute and cancel cruises as a result of violence in the area. 

"We're truly sorry for the impact that this has on your vacation plans," Royal Caribbean said in a statement to guests booked on the now cancelled cruise.

This isn't the first Royal Caribbean cruise to have changes made to avoid the Middle East.

Royal Caribbean announced its 9-month world cruise would be re-routed around Africa as well.  The original plan was for Serenade of the Seas to go through the Suez Canal in May. 

Instead of sailing through the Middle East, Serenade of the Seas will transit Africa and offer its guests an immersive tour of the continent. The 42-day route will visit a number of countries around Africa, including the Seychelles, South Africa, Namibia, Ghana, and Senegal.

Houthi attacks wrecking vacation plans

While cruises in the Middle East do not constitute a major region for sailings, it's certainly impacting many lines and people's vacations.

Attacks by the Iran-backed rebel group have prompted a military response, and the cruise industry has had to shift gears.

Royal Caribbean Group had already made changes to avoid the region when the Palestinians sparked a war with Israel on October 7. The ensuing conflict sparked the Houthis to launch their own attacks on interests in the region as a sign of support.

Carnival Corporation rerouted itineraries for 12 ships across seven brands for voyages scheduled to sail through the Red Sea through May.

This includes two world cruises on Princess cruise ships.

MSC Cruises cancelled three sailings in April to avoid the Red Sea. Instead of going through the Middle East, the MSC ships will sail with no passengers on board and go around Africa.

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class ships combine modern amenities with technological wonders for a fantastic cruising experience.

The Quantum Class was first released in 2014, pioneering five marvelous ships with unique itineraries.

Many cruisers feel that Royal Caribbean got a lot right with this category, so I was excited to experience my first cruise on a Quantum Class ship.

I took my first cruise on Anthem this past month, choosing a 7-night sailing out of Cape Liberty and stopping at Port Canaveral, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Nassau.

After sailing on Anthem of the Seas, I absolutely agree that this is a top-tier ship.

With 2,090 staterooms and 16 guest decks, the ship has ample space for all 4,095 passengers on board.

She’s a large ship, 1,138 feet in length and 136 wide. 

Not only was my Anthem cruise my first on a Quantum Class ship, but it was also my first time sailing out of Cape Liberty in New Jersey.

Based on this experience, I’ve written a comprehensive review of what sailing on Anthem of the Seas is like in 2024.

Read more: Anthem of the Seas Guide and Review

Capacity

Anthem comfortably holds 4,905 passengers and 1,500 crew members. However, you would never be able to tell that over 6,000 people are onboard while walking around the ship.

Each venue was spacious, with enough room to accommodate all the cruisers. I enjoyed how separated and closed-off some of the venues were. 

For example, even though the Royal Esplanade is a long, open space, it is separated into two floors, which spread out the space.

Not only that, but each venue located nearby (the Music Hall, Boleros, and the Royal Theater) is fully closed off from the Esplanade.

This ensures that you can’t see or hear everyone at the same time, which I really appreciate.

And yes, while there were chair hogs on sea days, I never experienced a moment where I couldn’t find a chair where I wanted one. There were always at least one or two available.

As a matter of fact, I found much more seating than I expected!

It seemed like most of the cruisers onboard Anthem for a 7-night cruise were families with kids, or large groups of extended family members.

Strangely enough, it was easier for me to get lost onboard than it usually is on Oasis-class ships, even though Anthem is smaller.

My theory is that the strategy of dividing the ship into neighborhoods, like Royal Caribbean does in its Oasis and Icon-Class ships, really does help you comprehend and remember the space you’re in. 

Entertainment

Anthem of the Seas had a wide variety of exciting performances, games, and events. 

Even over the seven-day cruise, I barely had enough time to see everything.

Read more: I'm new to Royal Caribbean and tried 4 different kinds of cruise ships, here's what I like about each

Two70

The first show I saw onboard was Spectra’s Cabaret, a stunning mixture of music, dance, and technology. 

I loved the song selections and the colorful, flamboyant costumes.

Two70 impressed me with its six moving LED screens and wide, comfortable seating.

I also thought it was an amazing venue for events like the Captain’s Corner and “Are You Smarter Than a Crew Member?” trivia.

The wide glass walls brought in sunlight and gorgeous sea views, while access to the library at the top of the venue made for plenty of space. 

Royal Theater

Games and shows also played in the Royal Theater, such as the popular “We Will Rock You” musical. 

While I was looking forward to seeing this performance, apparently I waited too long.

On the last two days of the cruise, which were both sea days, I decided to go and see the show. 

Days 6 and 7 each had two performances scheduled, and I attempted to go to the last three.

However, all performances were canceled due to the heavy waves and high winds. For the safety of the performers, they chose not to do the performances.

I completely understand why, but this was my first time experiencing such bad sailing conditions that the indoor shows had to be canceled!

The Royal Theater was also home to one of the most confusing musicals I’ve ever seen: “The Gift.” 

The singing and dancing were incredible, but I struggled to connect the plot with the songs chosen.

Dining

While Anthem of the Seas has a broad selection of delectable specialty restaurants, I chose to focus on the complimentary dining options for this cruise.

There’s a wide array of food included in the cruise fare on Anthem: the Main Dining Room, the Windjammer, the Cafe at Two70, Cafe Promenade, Sorrento’s Pizza, SeaPlex Dog House, and Solarium Bistro.

Main Dining Room

The Main Dining Room was very hit-or-miss. Some nights, the food was sublime. Other times, it tasted bland or wasn't warm enough.

Our waitstaff was always willing to help out, making suggestions or getting us any other dishes we preferred. I can’t blame them at all for the quality of the food!

But it was a little frustrating to look at a menu and never know if I would enjoy what I ordered.

The service and atmosphere of the Main Dining Room, however, blew me away.

Our waiters were friendly and helpful. They served us to the point of almost predicting our needs.

And I loved the soft, jazzy electronic music that played each night.

My friend and I were seated at a large table, so it seemed that another party was meant to join us. Despite us hopefully waiting each night, we ended up dining alone for the length of the cruise.

Windjammer

I can hardly believe it, but—after six cruises—I feel sick of the Windjammer buffet. 

Maybe that's just because I've been to the Windjammer so often, not only on my past cruises but also over the seven days I spent on Anthem. Or perhaps the food was subpar compared to the other Windjammers I’ve been to on Royal Caribbean ships.

Much like the Main Dining Room, I felt that the meals were hit or miss. 

For example, I usually love all the Indian food served at the Windjammer. On Anthem, however, I only enjoyed a third of the Indian dishes I tried.

Exemplary Guest Service

During meals on Anthem of the Seas, head waiters announced that the ship’s customer service has been the best-rated in the fleet for the past eight weeks.

Based on cruiser survey ratings, the ship’s waitstaff has the best service out of all the other ships.

This may sound like an easy rating to grab, but I honestly agree.

Anthem’s staff, from head waiters to bartenders to chefs, were endlessly charming and attentive. 

I definitely felt that it was some of the best service I’d experienced on a Royal Caribbean ship.

Read more: I’ve cruised on 4 Quantum Class ships. Here are 7 things Royal Caribbean got right with these mega ships

Bars

The service at the bars on Anthem of the Seas was just as ideal as on the rest of the ship.

It was quick and the bartenders were quite friendly, eager to have a conversation when they got the chance.

I also got to use the Bionic bar for the first time. The experience was delightful, but I only bothered to use it once; it felt more like a trendy sensation than a place to sit down and consistently order.

I also noticed that the robots were down for maintenance quite often, so it would have been hard to order there frequently.

The Vintages bar, located on deck 5, quickly became my favorite spot to grab a drink. 

It was open until midnight each night, growing dark and comfortably quiet with speedy service. 

They also have an incredible Mint Berry Delight, which tastes like a sparkling blueberry mojito.

Ports of Call

For a seven-day cruise, Anthem’s itinerary was more sea-day focused. 

We only made stops at three ports: Port Canaveral, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Nassau, Bahamas. 

As someone who already resides in Florida, a stop at Port Canaveral was completely uninteresting. 

We stayed onboard instead and enjoyed the amenities with fewer guests around.

I did go explore on the days we visited Perfect Day at CocoCay and Nassau.

However, given how sea-intensive this cruise was, I would only recommend this itinerary to cruisers who are confident they’ll enjoy everything Anthem has to offer.

I loved this ship and the activities onboard, but if you prefer more exciting ports, I would advise you to choose a different cruise.

Compared to her sister ships, such as Ovation of the Seas, which travels to Alaska, Anthem had one of the more uninteresting itineraries at the time of my sailing.

Read more: Anthem of the Seas 7-night Bahamas and Perfect Day Cruise Compass - February 25, 2024

Stateroom

This was my first time staying in a virtual balcony interior stateroom—a concept that debuted on Quantum of the Seas, Anthem’s sister ship.

I enjoyed being able to look at what was going on around the ship while still inside the stateroom. Just having a small view of the outside world was worth it!

Our stateroom felt clean and very modern, with navy blue and gold decorations. The design was also upgraded, but some changes were more efficient than others. I disliked how the storage was split up over multiple places in the cabin.

This month, I sailed onboard Anthem of the Seas in the cheapest cabin possible. 

It turned out to be an interior virtual balcony room, with a high-definition screen.

Anthem of the Seas is a newer Quantum Class ship, originally launched in 2015.

She has 2,090 staterooms in total, able to hold over 4,000 passengers at double occupancy.

With 16 guest decks, Anthem is a large, comfortable ship great for families and cruisers looking for multiple activities. 

Anthem of the Seas provided a high-tech, comfortable cruise experience beyond my expectations.

For my cruise on Anthem, I booked the cheapest possible room through the guarantee cabin process.

The total for this 7-night cruise (including pre-paid gratuities) was $1914.38, which breaks down to about $137 per night, per person.

Royal Caribbean assigned me the cabin for a lower overall price.

However, this meant I wasn’t assigned the room until a few weeks before the cruise.

When I arrived onboard, I realized that I had been assigned a virtual balcony stateroom—my first time seeing this type of cabin.

A virtual balcony is a method cruise ships have introduced to bring an ocean view to windowless inside cabins. 

A high-definition, 80-inch screen replaces a window in the cabin, instead playing a live feed of the view outside. The screen shows you a real-time look at what is going on outside, almost as if you did have a balcony room.

Royal Caribbean first pioneered these cabins on Quantum of the Seas, Anthem’s sister in the Quantum Class.

Read more: 10 Awesome things to do on Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas

I was excited to see the strong points of this stateroom category that I've never tried.

My stateroom was located on Deck 8 towards the front of the ship, a great middle location. This made it easy for me to walk down to the Royal Esplanade on Deck 5, or to take a quick elevator ride up to the Windjammer and pool area on Deck 14. 

Because Anthem's middle decks are all dedicated to guest cabins, my travel companion and I had a very quiet area to sleep in. 

We didn’t suffer from the banging noises of the anchor below or stomping feet above.

When we first walked in, I immediately noticed the large, glowing screen on the far wall. The virtual screen stretched from the floor to the ceiling, projecting a live feed of the outside area.

Although having a live feed in the room felt eerie at first, I found that it was actually very nice to get a peek at what was going on around me. 

When it was raining, I could take a look at the screen and see the wet weather right away.

When the ship arrived at Perfect Day at CocoCay, I saw the blue waters from the comfort of my stateroom.

In a regular interior cabin, you are more cut off from the ship’s surroundings, clueless to what’s going on unless you leave the room and head to another deck.

The feed stayed on 24/7, and although Royal Caribbean’s website says you can switch the screen off, I never found a way to do so.

Unfortunately, the bright screen kept glowing into the night, even though the view was nothing but black.

We could cover it with the white and blue curtains, but they didn’t serve to completely block the blue light.

This was one disadvantage of staying in a virtual balcony cabin because I usually love the deep darkness of a windowless inside cabin.

If the curtains weren’t adjusted perfectly in front of the screen, the light still shone into the room, keeping me up at night.

To the left of the screen, I saw a quality dresser with drawers and a lamp on top. Inside the dresser was the cabin’s mini-fridge, which I didn’t use enough to tell if it kept food cold. I just stored fruit or desserts inside.

Beside the dresser, I found the cabin’s vanity/desk. 

The white chair in front was stylish and had a useful handle on the back. I could easily grab the handle to pull the chair out from the desk.

Above the table space sat a few cubbies for storage, and various ports for charging. From American to European to USB ports, this area provided several options.

The only downside here was that we left all our devices to charge on the desk, cluttering up the area.

I liked the sleek, modern look and feel of this wood furniture, but the ring light seemed dimmer than in other cabins I’ve stayed in. 

Opposite the dresser and vanity sat a long, blue couch. It was large enough for both myself and my friend to sit on it, and also leave bags and clothes there when we needed them.

The cushions and pillows matched the dark blue shade of the stateroom.

The cabin's design felt very modern, and everything was clean and tidy. However, I had one major gripe with the cabin’s layout: storage.

Typically, Royal Caribbean staterooms have one large closet in the front of the room, and various drawers and shelves throughout.

This cabin split the closet into two parts instead: one on either side of the beds.

The left side held a closet with more shelf space and a safe for security. The right side had a more traditional closet, with space and hangers for tall clothes and jackets.

My travel companion and I had to decide if we would split our clothes into both sides, leaving us to walk around the beds and each other every time it was time to put together an outfit.

Or, we could compromise and one of us could have all the shelf space, while the other got to hang all her clothes.

We went with the second option, but I still felt annoyed that the closet was split into two separate areas.

I did love the extra shelf space above the beds—these cabinets were deep and wide, and there was one above each bed.

One design problem I noticed with my cabinet was that it opened from the top, and the corner would hit the closet door each time. 

The only way I could solve this was by leaving the closet door open whenever I opened up the cabinet. 

Between the beds, there were two nightstands with large shelf space. As I am now used to, there were no USB ports or outlets in these nightstands by the beds.

And above each bed was a warm, golden lamp.

Past these beds, I found the cabin’s bathroom.

Although it was small, I thought that it was one of the most modern-looking and clean bathrooms I’ve seen.

The shower had a wide, curved door, giving us just a little more space inside.

The bathroom counter was long, with a large sink. Strangely enough, the counter beside the sink was thinner than the sink itself. 

However, there was still enough shelf space above and below the sink where I could store toiletries.

The bathroom had several hooks for items, but the size and shape seemed ill-suited to hang towels on. When I tried to hang towels on the hooks, they would slide right off.

All-in-all, the room was clean and modern, with some design changes compared to the cabin layout I’m used to. 

While I enjoyed the cabin overall, some of these design changes were less efficient than others.

Two different Royal Caribbean cruise ships have reported having an issue with their propulsion systems.

Over the past few days, cruise fans have reported being notified of a propulsion issue on Oasis of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.

Here's what we know about each ship's situation.

Anthem of the Seas

Customers with upcoming cruises on Anthem of the Seas have gotten emails from Royal Caribbean to inform them of itinerary changes because the ship must travel slower.

In the email, Royal Caribbean informed guests Anthem must sail at a reduced speed because of an issue with one of the ship's engines, "one of the ship's four engines requires maintenance which impacts our speed."

"While this impacts our ability to deliver on the original itinerary, we're confident that it will still be an exceptional cruise vacation."

Depending on the itinerary, scheduled stops in Port Canaveral, Florida or Nassau, Bahamas have been dropped from the itinerary. 

The October 30 and November 5 sailings are confirmed to have had changes to their itineraries.

Royal Caribbean apologized for the change in itinerary, "We're very sorry about this change to your itinerary. We look forward to seeing you onboard."

For at least one sailing, guests received a one-day cruise fare refund in the form of an onboard credit. 

Anthem of the Seas is currently sailing from Southampton, wrapping up her 2023 European cruise season.

Oasis of the Seas

Guests on the current sailing of Oasis of the Seas received a letter in their cabin to inform them of an issue with one of the ship's propulsion pods.

The ship's captain made an announcement and a letter was sent to reconfirm the details, "As our Captain announced, an electrical component in one of our three propulsion pods needs replacing. Our crew is currently working through the repairs as we speak."

"While everything else is functioning at 100%, as a precaution we've lowered our speed, which means we'll arrive in Orlando (Port Canaveral) Florida a little later than planned."

The reduced speed has had a minimal impact on the ship's itinerary, with a delay coming into Port Canaveral by about an hour.

The letter went on to apologize for the change, "We're terribly sorry for the impact to your cruise. Please know, your safety and comfort, along with that of our crew, remain our top priorities."

Oasis of the Seas is currently homeported in Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

In a Facebook group for Oasis of the Seas, a number of cruisers confirmed the issue, but also reported everything seems fine for them.

Tanya Stark-Beakes is on Oasis of the Seas on the current sailing and said the issue doesn't seem to have much of an impact, "It’s very minor. We’ll just be a little late to Port Canaveral (it initially started with having to deliver a patient to Virginia and having to go full speed after that). We’re still moving at a good pace."

Margaret Tricarico also confirmed nothing has changed much for them, "Yes, the Captain made an announcement around 8:30 last night. It’s fine. We’re motoring along and we can see the sun starting to rise on the horizon"

Cruise ships have redundant engines for this situation

Cruise ships encountering a propulsion issue is not unheard of by any means.

Cruise ships have multiple engines, and often not all engines are running even when there are no issues. This allows the ship to give engines a break, and have backups when a situation like this arises.

In most cases, the ship is able to continue operating safely, albeit at a reduced speed.

Last month, Radiance of the Seas had a propulsion issue that required Royal Caribbean to cancel two sailings so that repairs could take place. Cancelling cruises for a propulsion issue is quite rare and indicative of an acute problem that necessitated a more prompt response.

Historically, ships with propulsion problems have been able to sail and either make repairs along the way, or hold off until a scheduled upcoming dry dock.

Two different Royal Caribbean cruise ships have reported having an issue with their propulsion systems.

Over the past few days, cruise fans have reported being notified of a propulsion issue on Oasis of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas.

Here's what we know about each ship's situation.

Anthem of the Seas

Customers with upcoming cruises on Anthem of the Seas have gotten emails from Royal Caribbean to inform them of itinerary changes because the ship must travel slower.

In the email, Royal Caribbean informed guests Anthem must sail at a reduced speed because of an issue with one of the ship's engines, "one of the ship's four engines requires maintenance which impacts our speed."

"While this impacts our ability to deliver on the original itinerary, we're confident that it will still be an exceptional cruise vacation."

Depending on the itinerary, scheduled stops in Port Canaveral, Florida or Nassau, Bahamas have been dropped from the itinerary. 

The October 30 and November 5 sailings are confirmed to have had changes to their itineraries.

Royal Caribbean apologized for the change in itinerary, "We're very sorry about this change to your itinerary. We look forward to seeing you onboard."

For at least one sailing, guests received a one-day cruise fare refund in the form of an onboard credit. 

Anthem of the Seas is currently sailing from Southampton, wrapping up her 2023 European cruise season.

Oasis of the Seas

Guests on the current sailing of Oasis of the Seas received a letter in their cabin to inform them of an issue with one of the ship's propulsion pods.

The ship's captain made an announcement and a letter was sent to reconfirm the details, "As our Captain announced, an electrical component in one of our three propulsion pods needs replacing. Our crew is currently working through the repairs as we speak."

"While everything else is functioning at 100%, as a precaution we've lowered our speed, which means we'll arrive in Orlando (Port Canaveral) Florida a little later than planned."

The reduced speed has had a minimal impact on the ship's itinerary, with a delay coming into Port Canaveral by about an hour.

The letter went on to apologize for the change, "We're terribly sorry for the impact to your cruise. Please know, your safety and comfort, along with that of our crew, remain our top priorities."

Oasis of the Seas is currently homeported in Cape Liberty, New Jersey.

In a Facebook group for Oasis of the Seas, a number of cruisers confirmed the issue, but also reported everything seems fine for them.

Tanya Stark-Beakes is on Oasis of the Seas on the current sailing and said the issue doesn't seem to have much of an impact, "It’s very minor. We’ll just be a little late to Port Canaveral (it initially started with having to deliver a patient to Virginia and having to go full speed after that). We’re still moving at a good pace."

Margaret Tricarico also confirmed nothing has changed much for them, "Yes, the Captain made an announcement around 8:30 last night. It’s fine. We’re motoring along and we can see the sun starting to rise on the horizon"

Cruise ships have redundant engines for this situation

Cruise ships encountering a propulsion issue is not unheard of by any means.

Cruise ships have multiple engines, and often not all engines are running even when there are no issues. This allows the ship to give engines a break, and have backups when a situation like this arises.

In most cases, the ship is able to continue operating safely, albeit at a reduced speed.

Last month, Radiance of the Seas had a propulsion issue that required Royal Caribbean to cancel two sailings so that repairs could take place. Cancelling cruises for a propulsion issue is quite rare and indicative of an acute problem that necessitated a more prompt response.

Historically, ships with propulsion problems have been able to sail and either make repairs along the way, or hold off until a scheduled upcoming dry dock.

There will be a new Royal Caribbean cruise ship sailing from Singapore in 2025.

One of the last pieces of the 2024-2025 cruise deployment has fallen into place with Royal Caribbean's announcement that Anthem of the Seas will sail from Asia for the first time ever.

Anthem of the Seas will begin sailing from Singapore in October 2024, replacing Spectrum of the Seas.

Singapore has been a stronghold for Royal Caribbean, having been the first homeport to allow cruises to restart in late 2020.

Since then, Spectrum of the Seas has sailed short 3- and 4-night cruises primarily from Singapore.

Spectrum of the Seas will shift to China, where she will sail from Shanghai and re-open China and Far East cruises for Royal Caribbean.

Spectrum will begin sailing from Shanghai, China in April 2024.

Spectrum of the Seas, sailing from Shanghai, will offer 4- and 5-night cruises visiting popular destinations in Japan. Spectrum will also offer eight sailings from Hong Kong starting in December 2024, to places in Japan, China and Vietnam.

Royal Caribbean will open bookings from July.

“This is the moment we – along with Chinese holidaymakers – have been waiting for. Our return to China is an exciting milestone that could only be marked with Spectrum of the Seas, which became a household name with Chinese families and travellers alike when it debuted in Shanghai as the latest and greatest Royal Caribbean ship in 2019,” said Bert Hernandez, senior vice president, International, Royal Caribbean International.

“We thank the government of China for establishing a pathway forward and continue to be committed to expanding the cruise industry in a region we have sailed from for more than a decade. This has also opened up a world of opportunities to expand the variety of holidays in Asia, as another award-winning ship sets sail in the region with the introduction of Anthem of the Seas in Singapore.”

Best features of Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas is one of the Quantum Class ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet, and she was the second Quantum Class ship to be launched.

Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas is considered a great cruise ship to book for several reasons:

Innovative Features: The ship boasts innovative and exciting features like the North Star observation capsule, where guests can enjoy panoramic views, and the Ripcord by iFly indoor skydiving simulator.

Variety of Activities: Anthem of the Seas offers a wide array of activities to suit different interests and ages. From bumper cars and roller skating at the SeaPlex to surfing on the FlowRider, there are plenty of options to keep guests entertained throughout their cruise.

Entertainment Options: The ship offers Broadway-caliber shows, such as "We Will Rock You" and "The Gift," providing high-quality performances that rival those found on land.

Guests can also enjoy live music, comedy acts, and various themed parties onboard.

Dining Experiences: Anthem of the Seas provides a diverse range of dining options, including specialty restaurants such as Jamie's Italian, Wonderland, and Chops Grille. The ship also offers complimentary dining venues and casual eateries.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The ship caters to families with children, offering dedicated spaces like the H2O Zone water park and the Adventure Ocean youth program, which provides age-appropriate activities for kids and teens. 

Relaxation and Wellness: Anthem of the Seas features a tranquil Solarium, an adults-only retreat with pools and whirlpools, as well as a luxurious spa and fitness center. Guests can unwind and rejuvenate while enjoying ocean views and indulging in spa treatments.

Modern Accommodations: Anthem of the Seas offers comfortable and modern staterooms, including spacious suites, balconies, and virtual balconies. These well-appointed accommodations provide a relaxing and enjoyable environment for guests to retreat to.

Best features of Spectrum of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas was designed for the Asian cruise market, and has a few special offerings. 

Suite Enclave – Royal Caribbean’s first and exclusive space for the exquisite Royal Suite Class Star, Sky and Sea accommodations in a private area, featuring exclusive floor access, an elevator, private restaurants and a dedicated lounge area.

Two70 – Boasting stunning 270-degree ocean views by day and transforming into a multidimensional theatre by night, this transformative space flaunts six agile Roboscreens, breathtaking live performers and mind-bending aerialists to create unimaginable visuals.

SeaPlex – The largest indoor active space at sea, featuring bumper cars, laser tag, fencing, archery and more.

Star Moment – A lively and energetic karaoke venue where family and friends come together to belt out and sing like stars.

Family Friendly Accommodations – From exterior balcony staterooms to interconnected rooms, to the signature two-level Ultimate Family Suite, an expansive, multiroom retreat complete with its own slide and cinema that also doubles as a karaoke stage, there’s an array of staterooms designed for the whole family.

Signature Experiences – A bold lineup of guest favourites are on deck, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the North Star, an all-glass observation capsule which ascends 300 feet above the ocean to deliver incomparable 360-degree views; and RipCord by iFly, the first sky diving experience at sea.

A World of Flavours – There are 19 dining options that serve up a variety of cuisines, including Hot Pot, an authentic Chinese dining experience; Teppanyaki, a celebration of Far East flavours cooked in Japan’s traditional teppanyaki style; and Sichuan Red, a new specialty dining experience tailored just for Spectrum, where diners can savour a bold tapestry of spices and Sichuan flavours. Signature classics include imaginative cuisine at Wonderland, American steakhouse Chops Grille and authentic rustic fare and handmade pasta at Jamie’s Italian.

There will be a new Royal Caribbean cruise ship sailing from Singapore in 2025.

One of the last pieces of the 2024-2025 cruise deployment has fallen into place with Royal Caribbean's announcement that Anthem of the Seas will sail from Asia for the first time ever.

Anthem of the Seas will begin sailing from Singapore in October 2024, replacing Spectrum of the Seas.

Singapore has been a stronghold for Royal Caribbean, having been the first homeport to allow cruises to restart in late 2020.

Since then, Spectrum of the Seas has sailed short 3- and 4-night cruises primarily from Singapore.

Spectrum of the Seas will shift to China, where she will sail from Shanghai and re-open China and Far East cruises for Royal Caribbean.

Spectrum will begin sailing from Shanghai, China in April 2024.

Spectrum of the Seas, sailing from Shanghai, will offer 4- and 5-night cruises visiting popular destinations in Japan. Spectrum will also offer eight sailings from Hong Kong starting in December 2024, to places in Japan, China and Vietnam.

Royal Caribbean will open bookings from July.

“This is the moment we – along with Chinese holidaymakers – have been waiting for. Our return to China is an exciting milestone that could only be marked with Spectrum of the Seas, which became a household name with Chinese families and travellers alike when it debuted in Shanghai as the latest and greatest Royal Caribbean ship in 2019,” said Bert Hernandez, senior vice president, International, Royal Caribbean International.

“We thank the government of China for establishing a pathway forward and continue to be committed to expanding the cruise industry in a region we have sailed from for more than a decade. This has also opened up a world of opportunities to expand the variety of holidays in Asia, as another award-winning ship sets sail in the region with the introduction of Anthem of the Seas in Singapore.”

Best features of Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas is one of the Quantum Class ships in Royal Caribbean's fleet, and she was the second Quantum Class ship to be launched.

Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas is considered a great cruise ship to book for several reasons:

Innovative Features: The ship boasts innovative and exciting features like the North Star observation capsule, where guests can enjoy panoramic views, and the Ripcord by iFly indoor skydiving simulator.

Variety of Activities: Anthem of the Seas offers a wide array of activities to suit different interests and ages. From bumper cars and roller skating at the SeaPlex to surfing on the FlowRider, there are plenty of options to keep guests entertained throughout their cruise.

Entertainment Options: The ship offers Broadway-caliber shows, such as "We Will Rock You" and "The Gift," providing high-quality performances that rival those found on land.

Guests can also enjoy live music, comedy acts, and various themed parties onboard.

Dining Experiences: Anthem of the Seas provides a diverse range of dining options, including specialty restaurants such as Jamie's Italian, Wonderland, and Chops Grille. The ship also offers complimentary dining venues and casual eateries.

Family-Friendly Amenities: The ship caters to families with children, offering dedicated spaces like the H2O Zone water park and the Adventure Ocean youth program, which provides age-appropriate activities for kids and teens. 

Relaxation and Wellness: Anthem of the Seas features a tranquil Solarium, an adults-only retreat with pools and whirlpools, as well as a luxurious spa and fitness center. Guests can unwind and rejuvenate while enjoying ocean views and indulging in spa treatments.

Modern Accommodations: Anthem of the Seas offers comfortable and modern staterooms, including spacious suites, balconies, and virtual balconies. These well-appointed accommodations provide a relaxing and enjoyable environment for guests to retreat to.

Best features of Spectrum of the Seas

Spectrum of the Seas was designed for the Asian cruise market, and has a few special offerings. 

Suite Enclave – Royal Caribbean’s first and exclusive space for the exquisite Royal Suite Class Star, Sky and Sea accommodations in a private area, featuring exclusive floor access, an elevator, private restaurants and a dedicated lounge area.

Two70 – Boasting stunning 270-degree ocean views by day and transforming into a multidimensional theatre by night, this transformative space flaunts six agile Roboscreens, breathtaking live performers and mind-bending aerialists to create unimaginable visuals.

SeaPlex – The largest indoor active space at sea, featuring bumper cars, laser tag, fencing, archery and more.

Star Moment – A lively and energetic karaoke venue where family and friends come together to belt out and sing like stars.

Family Friendly Accommodations – From exterior balcony staterooms to interconnected rooms, to the signature two-level Ultimate Family Suite, an expansive, multiroom retreat complete with its own slide and cinema that also doubles as a karaoke stage, there’s an array of staterooms designed for the whole family.

Signature Experiences – A bold lineup of guest favourites are on deck, including the FlowRider surf simulator, the North Star, an all-glass observation capsule which ascends 300 feet above the ocean to deliver incomparable 360-degree views; and RipCord by iFly, the first sky diving experience at sea.

A World of Flavours – There are 19 dining options that serve up a variety of cuisines, including Hot Pot, an authentic Chinese dining experience; Teppanyaki, a celebration of Far East flavours cooked in Japan’s traditional teppanyaki style; and Sichuan Red, a new specialty dining experience tailored just for Spectrum, where diners can savour a bold tapestry of spices and Sichuan flavours. Signature classics include imaginative cuisine at Wonderland, American steakhouse Chops Grille and authentic rustic fare and handmade pasta at Jamie’s Italian.

Anthem of the Seas is a Quantum Class Royal Caribbean cruise ship that launched in 2015. As one of the biggest and most modern cruise ships in Royal Caribbean’s fleet, Anthem of the Seas boasts excellent entertainment, dining, activities, and itineraries fit for any cruising style.

Whether you’re sailing to the Caribbean or Europe, it’s helpful to have an overview of what is offered on Anthem of the Seas to ensure your cruise vacation is off to a great start.

Let’s take an in-depth look at everything you can see and experience on Anthem of the Seas.

In this guide:

• Pool Deck
• Dining
• Bars & Lounges
• Things to do
• Adventure Ocean
• Entertainment
• Wellness & Relaxation
• Staterooms
• Itineraries

Anthem of the Seas Pool Deck

The Anthem of the Seas pool deck has a total of three pools and one children’s play area. As a Quantum Class ship, Anthem of the Seas was designed to sail in all climates. Therefore, she offers a mix of both outdoor and indoor pool areas.

Related: All about Quantum Class ships

Anthem of the Seas has one main pool outside along with two whirlpools. On sunny days, this is where you’ll find the most guests swimming and sunbathing. You’ll find two bars outside, live music, and plenty of seating. This is also where pool games are held, such as the bellyflop and sexiest man competitions.

Also located outside is the H20 zone, a colorful kids splash park with a large shallow pool, kids “lazy river”, and a baby splash pad for children still in diapers.

Anthem of the Seas also has an indoor pool available to all guests, which can make a great option for rainy or chilly days. The roof in the indoor pool is technically retractable, although it generally remains closed. There’s also a smaller, shallow pool in the indoor area perfect for kids, as well as two whirlpools.

The Solarium on Anthem of the Seas is the adults-only pool area for guests aged 16 and up. It’s fully enclosed and climate controlled. Located in the Solarium is a canopied pool, whirlpools, and padded pool chairs and loungers.

You can also find the Solarium Bridge wings in the Solarium, which are small outdoor decks that jet off the side of the ship, offering views of the ship sailing through the ocean.

Anthem of the Seas Dining

You won’t go hungry on Anthem of the Seas, with plenty of complimentary and specialty dining venues available. It’s easy to go an entire cruise only eating at complimentary dining venues, as there is a wide range of cuisines and cooking styles available.

Complimentary dining venues on Anthem of the Seas:

• Main Dining Room, the main sit-down dining hall open for breakfast and dinner as well as lunch on sea days
• Windjammer Marketplace, a buffet with a wide selection of cuisines and dishes open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• Cafe Promenade, a grab and go spot for coffees, teas, and small snacks
• Sorrento’s, a pizza and antipasti venue
• Cafe @ Two70, a casual grab and go venue with sandwiches, salads, soups, and pastries
• SeaPlex Dog House, a hot dog stand with a variety of toppings
• Solarium Bistro, a Mediterranean-inspired hybrid buffet and sit-down restaurant

Related: Food on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Some guests may prefer to try Royal Caribbean’s specialty dining venues, however, especially if they’re looking for an upgraded dining experience. Specialty restaurants often have a more intimate ambiance and wider range of cuisines not found elsewhere onboard. They can be a nice option for a special occasion or enjoyed as part of a dining package.

Specialty dining venues on Anthem of the Seas:

• Chops Grille, Royal Caribbean’s classic steakhouse
• Jamie’s Italian, modern Italian cuisine
• Izumi Sushi, offering a variety of sushi and hot dishes like ramen and fried rice
• Johnny Rockets, Americana fare including hamburgers and milkshakes
• Wonderland, an imaginative cuisine restaurant inspired by the tales of Alice and Wonderland
• Chef’s Table, a multi-course meal in which each course is paired with wine
• Cafe Patisserie, a French-style bakery with patisserie and specialty coffees and teas

Related: Top 10 Royal Caribbean dining tips

Anthem of the Seas Bars & Lounges

Outside of the extensive number of dining venues onboard Anthem of the Seas are a variety of lounges, each of which comes with its own drink offerings and vibe.

Some bars, such as Vintages Wine Bar, offer a relaxing environment perfect for sipping a glass of wine and reading a book. Others, like Boleros, offer a high-energy ambiance where you can enjoy live Latin music while drinking a fresh mojito.

The following bars and lounges can be found on Anthem of the Seas:

• Schooner Bar
• Music Hall
• Boleros
• Pool bar
• North Star bar
• Solarium Bar
• Casino bar
• Bionic Bar
• Two70 Bar
• Vintages
• Brass & Bock Pub
• Diamond Club
• Suite Lounge

If you plan on spending a lot of time on your cruise enjoying drinks, it may be worth it to pre-purchase a Deluxe Beverage Package. By purchasing a beverage package, you can have an unlimited amount of drinks throughout the cruise without worrying about the individual cost of each beverage.

Additionally, if your Anthem of the Seas cruise visits Perfect Day at CocoCay, your drink package benefits will work on the island.

For more information about beverage packages and whether or not you should book one for your cruise, check out the following articles:

• Royal Caribbean Drink Package Info, Tips, Pros & Cons
• Royal Caribbean drink package rules overview
• Is a cruise drink package worth it?

Things to do on Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas is packed with amazing activities for guests of all ages, most of which are included in your cruise fare. Some activities are available throughout the entire cruise, whereas others will have set times allocated for the activity, which can be found in the Cruise Planner or Royal Caribbean app.

Here are some of the activities available on Anthem of the Seas:

RipCord by iFLY

RipCord by iFLY is an indoor skydiving simulator found only on Quantum Class ships, where passengers can feel like they’re “skydiving” in an indoor wind machine.

To participate in RipCord by iFly, first you must watch an instructional video on indoor skydiving safety and body positioning. Next you’ll head to the skydiving chamber to put your flying skills to the test!

RipCord by iFLY has both complimentary and extra-cost options. Both will be available to book in the Royal Caribbean app once onboard Anthem of the Seas.

North Star

Another unique activity found only on Quantum Class ships is the North Star, a 360 degree observation pod that reaches a height of 300 feet above sea level. Guests board the North Star from the pool deck and are rewarded with panoramic views of the ship and surrounding scenery.

The North Star, like RipCord by iFLY, also has complimentary and extra-cost options. Complimentary rides are available while the ship is in port, whereas extra-cost options can be booked on sea days.

Related: 15 really cool things to do that you can only find on Royal Caribbean cruise ships

SeaPlex activities

Whereas many Royal Caribbean ships have an outdoor sports court, Anthem of the Seas has the SeaPlex, an indoor sports court and gaming area. Onboard activities are offered in the SeaPlex throughout the cruise, and include the following:

• Bumper cars
• Ping pong
• Xbox gaming arena
• Pickleball
• Soccer
• Volleyball

Challenger’s Arcade is also located near the SeaPlex, although this comes at an additional cost.

FlowRider

Like many Royal Caribbean ships, Anthem of the Seas has a FlowRider surfing simulator onboard. This activity comes at no extra cost, and passengers can try their best at boogie boarding or surfing on the simulator’s high speed waves.

Miscellaneous onboard activities

Outside of the main signature activities found on Anthem of the Seas are a variety of other fun things to do offered throughout the cruise. Miscellaneous onboard activities may include:

• Trivia
• Game shows
• Dance classes
• Morning stretch classes
• Scrapbooking
• Guest lectures
• Outdoor and indoor movies
• Theme nights
• Towel folding demonstrations
• Jewelry making
• Art auctions
• Wine tasting

Adventure Ocean on Anthem of the Seas

Anthem of the Seas has childcare for kids aged 3-17, which is complimentary during the day but has an hourly cost after 10PM. A nursery is also available for ages 6-36 months, although this comes at an additional hourly cost.

Adventure Ocean is split into age groups:

• Royal Babies & Tots: 6-36 months
• Aquanauts: 3-5 years
• Explorers: 6-8 years
• Voyagers: 9-11 years
• Teens: 12-17 years

Related: Six things to know about Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean

Each age group has their own Adventure Ocean area on Anthem of the Seas. In addition, there is a Science Lab onboard where kids can participate in fun, hands-on science experiments.

Teens have two exclusive areas: The Living Room and Fuel Teen Disco. The Living Room is a hangout area during the day for teens, whereas Fuel Teen Disco is a teen “nightclub” open in the evenings.

Anthem of the Seas also has an open play area onboard where parents can bring their children to use playground equipment, toys, and books. This area is unsupervised, so parents must remain with their children at all times.

Anthem of the Seas Entertainment

There are two main entertainment venues on Anthem of the Seas: the Royal Theater and Two70.

All Royal Caribbean ships have a multi-level theater used for musicals, plays, comedians, musicians, vocalists, and miscellaneous events during the cruise.

Two70, on the other hand, is an entertainment venue found only on Quantum Class cruise ships. Located in the aft of Anthem of the Seas, Two70 has floor-to-ceiling windows that span 270 degrees, offering incredible views of the ocean. 

We Will Rock You

The Royal Theater’s signature production show on Anthem of the Seas is We Will Rock You, a full-length Broadway musical telling the story of a futuristic society in which rock ‘n’ roll, or any music for that matter, has been banned.

A group of Bohemians rally up against the powerful Globalsoft company, who is doing everything in their power to make sure music, and the emergence of rock ‘n’ roll, does not return to society.

The musical features a score of music from Queen as the Bohemians try to save rock 'n' roll from the corporate, cold society in which they live.

The Gift

Another Royal Caribbean original production found in the Royal Theater is The Gift, which tells the story of a family that has been disengaged with each other due to the passing of their mother. The family’s mother, located in the spirit world, sees the struggles of her family and decides to send her family a magical gift.

The family received this gift on a stormy night, leading the family members to be guided on a journey to find themselves and bond with each other once again.

Spectra’s Cabaret

Spectra’s Cabaret is the signature production show found in Two70. Spectra, the maestro of the show, and his Agents of Rhythm take the audience through a colorful, upbeat, electric cabaret that combines live music and dancing with the advanced technological effects found in Two70.

Miscellaneous entertainment

Outside of the main production shows found on Anthem of the Seas are a variety of live music and other entertainment options:

• Live acoustic guitar music in the Bull & Bock pub
• Live Latin and Caribbean music at Boleros
• Live jazz orchestra music
• Live piano tunes at Schooner Bar
• Comedians
• Musicians
• Virtual symphonies and concerts at Two70

Anthem of the Seas Wellness & Relaxation

If you’re looking for rest and relaxation on your cruise, you’ll want to check out the spa on Anthem of the Seas. A variety of treatments are available, from Swedish massages to couples treatments and aromatherapy. A salon is also located within the spa, offering hair and nail services.

Anthem of the Seas also has a thermal suite available, which has saunas, steam rooms, a rainforest shower, and hot stone loungers. You can access the thermal spa with a thermal spa pass, which has no limit on the amount of times you can visit the spa, so you can enjoy the facilities throughout the entire cruise.

In addition to the spa is the Vitality Fitness Center, which is a large gym on the top floor of the ship. Located in the fitness center are cardio machines, free weights, weight machines, and exercise mats.

Fitness classes and consultations are also available, although these come at an extra cost.

Related: Five ways to find fitness on a Royal Caribbean cruise

Anthem of the Seas Staterooms

Anthem of the Seas has a stateroom option for any budget, from small studio cabins for solo travelers to lavish loft suites. Certain room categories, such as studios and suites, can fill up quickly, so booking your cruise as far in advance as possible is recommended to ensure you can book the stateroom of your choice.

The following staterooms are available to book on Anthem of the Seas:

• Interior with virtual balcony
• Ocean view
• Interior studio cabin
• Studio cabin with balcony
• Balcony
• Junior Suite
• Junior Suite with spacious balcony
• 1 Bedroom Grand Suite
• 1 Bedroom Grand Suite with spacious balcony
• 2 Bedroom Grand Suite
• 1 Bedroom Owner’s Suite
• Sky Loft Suite
• Grand Loft Suite
• Owner’s Loft Suite
• Royal Loft Suite

For more information and tips on booking the best stateroom for your cruise on Anthem of the Seas, check out the following articles:

• What’s the best cruise ship cabin for my family?
• Guide to balcony staterooms on Royal Caribbean
• Royal Caribbean suites guide & review

Anthem of the Seas itineraries

Anthem of the Seas splits her time between the US and UK, offering cruises from Cape Liberty, New Jersey and Southampton, England.

Cruises from Cape Liberty

When departing from Cape Liberty, Anthem of the Seas primarily offers 7 or 8-night Bahamas cruises, visiting Orlando, Perfect Day at CocoCay, and Nassau, with Miami offered as a port stop on 8-night itineraries.

She also offers a few 11-night Southern Caribbean cruises, visiting ports in St. Maarten, St. Thomas, Puerto Plata, St. Kitts, Antigua, San Juan, and St. Lucia, depending on the itinerary.

Transatlantic cruises are also available as Anthem of the Seas makes her way to and from Southampton, England.

Read more: Guide to cruises from New York

Cruises from Southampton, England

Itineraries departing Southampton, England may visit the following destinations:

• Norwegian fjords
• Northern Spain and western France
• Canary Islands, Spain, and Portugal
• Mediterranean

Cruises to Northern Spain, western France, and Norway are typically 7-night itineraries. Visiting the Canary Islands is offered on 12-night itineraries, and Mediterranean cruises from Southampton are usually 14 nights.

Are you considering booking a cruise on Anthem of the Seas? Check out our FULL ship tour to discover all that Anthem of the Seas has to offer:

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