Anthem of the Seas - Mediterranean and Spanish Beaches
I recently spent 2 weeks aboard the Anthem of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest ship and I have had the time of my life - there is so much to see and do on board!
My sailing was to the Mediterranean and highlights for me were Nice, Palma, Ibiza and Gibraltar.
During my time aboard I enjoyed the pool deck, Seaplex, theatres including Two 70 and many more areas. The pool deck has many areas including the family pool area which consists of a main pool, children’s pool, whirlpools and a big TV screen where films can be played during the day and evening. The ship also has an indoor pool and the roof does retract when the weather is good. Towards the front of the ship you can find the Solarium this is the Adult-only area with split level pools, a bar and also hosts evening parties for over 18’s.
At the back of the ship you will be able to experience some ‘First’s at Sea’ such as the Flow-rider which is a surf simulator, Ripcord by IFLY which is a sky diving experience and also a rock climbing wall. All of these 3 activities are free of charge however booking is required. You can purchase private lessons for the Flow-rider, available before departure or on board.
The Seaplex is an action packed venue for all ages and the home of the bumper cars, roller skating and the flying Trapeze, again all free of charge. This area also converts to a Sports Court for basketball and football. The Seaplex is spread out over two floors and on the upper level you will find Ping-Pong, Air Hockey and X-Box. In the evening the ‘The Quest ‘game show and discos are held here.
The theatre and Two 70 are the home of the main evening entertainment on board. Two 70 is a state of the art lounge with large screens on robotic arms which perform a spectacular show. During the day the Two 70 lounge is a perfect area to go to sit and relax. There is a café where you can get a light bite and a drink. Attached to this lounge are the library and the internet room. Two 70 is situated at the back of the ship and has floor to ceiling windows which allows you to see spectacular 270 degree views of where you are sailing.
In the evening this venue transforms into an amazing show lounge. A high definition projection screen covers the 270 degree windows allowing them to project images onto them during the show; this is where the RoboScreens take over. The show specifically for this venue is called Spectra’s Cabaret a mixture of the RoboScreens, projection images, singers and dancers; I have never seen anything like it before, it was amazing!
The main theatre is at the front of the ship and is the place to be to watch the We Will Rock You. This is the full west end stage show and is available approximately 3 times per 7 night cruise. This can be pre booked before departure or available on board (subject to availability). The theatre also hosts guest acts such as singers, comedians, magicians and the orchestra. During the day the theatre is also used as a cinema on selected days and times.
As you would expect there are many bars and lounges around the ship as well; from a traditional English pub; to Boleros where you can have a boogie; to the Bionic bar where there are no waiters only 2 robots serving you. In the Bionic bar you order your drink order using an IPad and the large screen tells you when your drink is ready, an experience definitely worth doing.
The dining on board this ship is different to other Royal Caribbean ships. They now offer what is called Dynamic Dining and Classic Dining.
Classic Dining offers a rotational system over 4 restaurants; Chic, American Icon, Silk and The Grande. You rotate with your same table and waiters for the duration of your cruise and don’t worry if you are a fussy eater they also offer everyday classics at each venue as well as their themed meals. If you select this option you choose either 6.30pm or 8.30 pm and you will be advised of your restaurant order in your cabin.
I selected the Dynamic Dining which is a flexible option which gives you the chance to book a table as you go. You can pre-book online before departure or on a day to day basis when you are on board. I liked this option as it allowed total flexibility between entertainment and being ashore if you have a late departure. There are peak times between 7pm-7.45pm so it’s worth booking in advance on line to guarantee.
They also have other restaurants such as Windjammer (buffet restaurant), Izumi (Japanese), Jamie’s Italian, Chops Grill (speciality steak house) and Wonderland(imaginative cuisine). All of these except the Windjammer are classed as speciality restaurants and therefore have a cover charge. I would highly recommend Jamie’s Italian. It was my favourite restaurant and was worth the extra charge.
Overall I had an amazing time during my two weeks away, there was so much on offer day and night but equally areas where you can find some quiet time and relax as well. The layout of the ship has been created so well you don’t realise the size of the ship you are sailing on and you are made to feel welcome by the staff from the moment you step on board.
Written by Naomi, Sussex Cruise Club
Naomi has worked in travel since leaving school and joined us in 2007. She's passionate about selling cruises and her favourite cruise line is Royal Caribbean and loves anything Disney! Contact Naomi on 01243 871664