Anthem of the Seas
Class: Quantum Class | Tonnage: 168,666 GT | Capacity: 4,180 | Launched: 2015
Quick Take
Tech-forward Quantum Class ship departing from New York/New Jersey — the most convenient choice for East Coast travelers.
Signature Experiences
North Star Observation Capsule
- 360-degree glass capsule rises 300 feet above the ship
- Day views, nighttime stargazing, romance off the charts
- Tip: Book sunset time slot, free but reserve early
RipCord by iFLY Indoor Skydiving
- Vertical wind tunnel simulates free fall
- No experience needed, instructor-guided throughout
- Tip: Book on embarkation day, popular times sell out fast
Bionic Bar Robot Bartenders
- Robotic arms mix drinks, customizable recipes
- Ultimate tech vibes, great for photos
- Note: Slightly pricey, experience over value
Two70° Panoramic Lounge
- 270-degree floor-to-ceiling glass + LED screens
- Daytime lounge transforms into immersive theater at night
- Royal Caribbean’s most innovative performance venue
Key Amenities
| Amenity | Details |
|---|---|
| North Star | Yes |
| iFLY Skydiving | Yes |
| FlowRider | Yes (2) |
| Rock Climbing Wall | Yes |
| SeaPlex Indoor Complex | Yes (bumper cars, skating, basketball) |
| Pools | Indoor + outdoor |
| Bionic Bar | Yes |
| Theater | Yes |
| Two70° | Yes |
Dining Options
Complimentary
- Main Dining Room - Classic dining
- Windjammer - Buffet
- The Cafe @ Two70° - Light bites and coffee
Specialty
- Wonderland - Molecular gastronomy, visual feast
- Jamie’s Italian - Jamie Oliver’s Italian
- Chops Grille - Steakhouse
- Izumi - Japanese
Cabin Recommendations
| Type | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Interior (Virtual Balcony) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Quantum innovation, real-time sea view projection |
| Ocean View | ⭐⭐⭐ | Standard |
| Balcony | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Top choice, spacious |
| Suite | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Exclusive lounge and restaurant |
Virtual Balcony Interior
Quantum Class innovation — interior cabin wall has LED screen displaying real-time exterior views. Best choice for budget travelers who don’t want a “dark room.”
Best For
| Traveler Type | Rating | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Tech Enthusiasts | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | North Star, iFLY, Bionic Bar |
| First-Time Cruisers | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Rich amenities, immersive experience |
| Families | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | SeaPlex indoor complex is awesome |
| East Coast Departures | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | New Jersey homeport, most convenient near NYC |
| Big Ship Seekers | ⭐⭐⭐ | Smaller than Oasis Class |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-tech amenities - North Star, iFLY, Bionic Bar
- East Coast convenience - New Jersey homeport, NYC area top choice
- All-weather facilities - Indoor pool and SeaPlex, rain or shine
- Two70° shows - Immersive performances, Royal Caribbean’s most innovative
Cons
- No Central Park - Missing Oasis Class signature outdoor space
- Smaller pool deck - Can get crowded at peak times
- North Atlantic routes - Winter seas can be rough
- Some paid extras - iFLY, North Star sometimes cost extra
Common Itineraries
- New Jersey departures - Year-round homeport
- Bahamas 4-5 night
- Bermuda 5-7 night
- Caribbean 7-12 night
- Seasonal - Occasional Europe cruises
Ingrid’s Take
Anthem is my top recommendation for East Coast travelers. Departing from New Jersey means no flying to Florida — saves time and money.
Tech amenities are its biggest selling point: North Star capsule, iFLY skydiving, Two70° immersive shows — things traditional cruise ships don’t have.
My advice: If you’re near NYC, love high-tech experiences, or want to avoid Miami crowds, Anthem is an excellent choice.
Last updated: March 2026