Discovering Anthem of the Seas

Sarah Graham on 03 May 2015
Having recently got the cruise bug, I was dying to try out the latest additional to the Royal Caribbean family - The Anthem of the Seas - and decided to take a trip of one of the 3 night taster cruises.

It ended that a group of ten of us went and all tried different cabins ranging from an inside cabins with the new virtual balconies, balcony suites and the two bedroom Royal Suite. I can honestly say that the Anthem had something for all of us and is a perfect venue for families and mixed groups to have a fabulous time together.

My balcony cabin was spotlessly clean, airy and more than big enough for two people.

We had done the online check in before arrival at the cruise terminal so we just breezed through check in and were soon on-board.

The Anthem of the Seas is something else! There's a street with a pizzeria, a deli, a patisserie, a selection of shops - and a robotic bar! That's right! You can choose a cocktail form the iPad menu or create your own then a robotic arm will make and deliver your drink!

There was so much to do that we really didn't have time in just three nights - but we did our best!

Entertainment-wise we were spoilt for choice - Anthem has so many options and innovations!

http://www.royalcaribbean.co.uk/our-ships/anthem-of-the-seas/activities/

Our first stop was the North Star which is a glass pod that ascends up to 300 feet above the ship to give stunning 360 degree views. We had to wait around 25 minutes but as we were queuing at the side of the Sky Bar, the time passed quickly.

At the back of the ship there's a Rock Climbing Wall, a Flowrider surf simulator and Ripcord by IFly indoor sky diving simulator. There's also Seaplex - a fabulous indoor play area that changes to different activities throughout the day to include dodgems, Circus School, football pitch and roller skating and serves as a night-time disco. There's an Xbox room where you can play with players around the world plus table tennis tables and table football.

There are four main restaurants as well as a host of speciality dining options available including Chops Grille, the gorgeous Wonderland and Izumi Japanese restaurant as well as the old Royal Caribbean favourites such as Jonny Rockets Burger Bar and Jamie Oliver's and every night is formal night at Grande Restaurant.

The food was amazing and I particularly loved Devinly Decadence which features a healthy yet indulgent menu of favourites under 500 calories.

Another favourite place was the Music Hall. Decadently decorated, this is a great space for meeting up and we played pool and watched a film during the day and enjoyed the live bands with a cocktail or two at night.

The shows were exceptional. The first night we went to see Spectre's Cabaret in two70 which is a unique entertainment space with lots of surprises and second night we watched the West End version of We Will Rock You.

I also managed to fit in a quick trip to the gym followed by a blissful head to toe massage in the peaceful surroundings of the Vitality at sea spa.

It's really hard to remember you are actually on a ship and I would thoroughly recommend the Anthem to both seasoned cruisers as well as those new to cruise as I think there is certainly something for everyone.

If you would like any more information, photos or holiday ideas, please get in touch.