My Two nights on Anthem of the Seas

Sharon Court on 25 April 2015
I love to cruise and was very excited find myself going on one of the largest ships in the world, Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, with state of the art technology, world class food from a huge choice of restaurants, and spectacular entertainment.

If you like to be active then Anthem is perfect! She has the Flow Rider - a surf Simulator, Ripcord by Ifly – indoor sky diving, a climbing wall and for the brave the North Star - a pod which rises to 300ft above sea level giving you a bird’s eye view of the ship ( too high for me!). Not forgetting the Seaplex, which is home to the Dodgems, Xbox live, and the Circus school.

My experience of Anthem started at Southampton station. I was swiftly transferred to the ship, which can be seen rising above the buildings at the City Cruise terminal – she is huge! As we pulled up alongside we were met by the check in team with iPads checking everyone in on the kerbside, this was very quick and efficient and within 15 minutes I had checked in cleared security and was on board, first stop the Bionic Bar to sample a cocktail made by a robot, a very strange but fascinating experience watching the robot barman making a perfect Apple Blast. Time now to find my Cabin on deck 12 I had been allocated a balcony cabin which had a huge double bed (could be split into twins) a large bathroom, built in wardrobes and a lounge area with sofa bed if needed, perfect for a small family or three adults.

The state of the art technology is apparent straight away on Anthem as you are allocated a key card but also a what looks like a watch, this gives you access to your cabin by swiping it over the door handle (no more fumbling for your key card) it can also be used to make purchases in the shops and bars, this made life so much easier. There is also free WiFi on board so you can keep in touch with the outside world if you wish - and don’t forget to download the app on your mobile phone, as from here you can make dinner reservations and find out what is happening on board.

My first day was spent exploring the ship starting at the top on deck 14 home to the pool, the solarium, H20 kids pool with cute miniature sun loungers for the kids and the champagne bar, working my way down each deck. The Seaplex area on deck 15 is a must this - can be spotted easily as Gigi the 10ft Giraffe is next to the entrance. A quick spin on the dodgems, then it was time to head to the Royal Theatre for the naming ceremony, with a salute from the Reading Scottish Pipe Band, blessings from the Bishop and Rabi, a performance by Only Boys Aloud and finally the Godmother Emma Wilby. Naming the ship with flashing wrist bands and ticker tape, the ship officially became Anthem of the Seas.

That night we dined in the American Grill with great food and great service before heading to the Two70 lounge to watch Spectre’s Cabaret, amazing singers, artists rising from the floor and down from the ceiling, computer screens coming to life the show keeps you attention throughout. It is a must see show!

Rising the next morning to find us sailing along the South Coast in brilliant sunshine, breakfast in the Windjammer with every possible breakfast item you could think of was followed by a trip to the Spa for a hot stone pedicure - pure indulgence being pampered whilst looking out to sea! After more exploring of the ship, I think I am finally getting my head around where things are and which direction to go in! The afternoon was spent in the Royal Theatre watching the stage performance of We Will Rock You – another must see show! Chic Restaurant tonight for dinner with its beautiful décor - more great food and service, next stop the Two70 lounge again for Comedy night, before my eyes cannot stay open any longer and my feet are hurting I wonder back to my cabin heels in hand, Thank you Royal Caribbean for an amazing time!