Discover the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas: An Unforgettable Pre-Inaugural Cruise from Bayonne, NJ

Embarking on a Royal Caribbean cruise is always an adventure, but few experiences compare to being among the very first passengers on a brand-new vessel. Earlier this month, my husband and I had the extraordinary privilege of experiencing the pre-inaugural cruise of the magnificent Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas. Our two-night voyage departed from its new home port in Bayonne, New Jersey, offering us an exclusive sneak peek into what promised to be an incredible addition to the Royal Caribbean fleet. Having sailed with Royal Caribbean more times than I can count – a loyalty we affectionately refer to as “Loyal to Royal” – my expectations were already high. I’ve previously reviewed their grand Oasis of the Seas and am typically hesitant about change, with our last several cruises exclusively on the Oasis or Allure of the Seas. However, the Anthem of the Seas not only met but significantly exceeded every expectation, leaving me utterly captivated and eagerly anticipating my next journey with this remarkable ship. It is truly an impressive and beautiful vessel, a testament to modern cruise innovation, and I am officially hooked!

A Grand Departure: New York City’s Iconic Skyline by Night

One of the most breathtaking moments of our pre-inaugural journey was the special treat the captain arranged for us: a sail-up the Hudson River. As the Anthem of the Seas majestically left the harbor, it offered all guests on board an absolutely stunning and unique view of the New York City skyline at night. This wasn’t just a scenic detour; it was a truly magical experience, feeling the crisp November air – unseasonably warm and clear, perfect for being out on deck – while gliding past legendary landmarks. Witnessing the Statue of Liberty illuminated against the dark sky, gazing up at the towering One World Trade Center (formerly known as “Freedom Tower”), and admiring the classic elegance of the Empire State Building from the water was an unforgettable spectacle. It provided a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of the city that never sleeps, creating a sense of wonder and excitement that set the tone for the entire cruise. Every turn presented a new, iconic silhouette, making the experience feel incredibly exclusive and profoundly beautiful. The atmosphere on deck was electric, with passengers sharing gasps of delight and capturing countless photographs of this spectacular urban panorama.

Modern Elegance and Seamless Technology Onboard

The Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas is a testament to contemporary design and innovative technology. The ship’s decor is strikingly modern, characterized by sleek lines, sophisticated color palettes, and an overall sense of pristine elegance. Every corner of the vessel felt impeccably clean and exceptionally well-maintained, reflecting the high standards Royal Caribbean is known for. The staff onboard the Anthem exemplified professionalism and genuine hospitality; they were not only courteous but also incredibly well-trained, ensuring every guest felt valued and taken care of. It’s clear they know exactly how to orchestrate a seamless and enjoyable cruise experience. Despite its grandeur, the ship strikes a perfect balance in size – large enough to offer an astonishing array of activities and amenities without feeling overwhelming or making it a chore to navigate between different venues. The ship definitely caters to a more modern, tech-savvy demographic, which as a millennial myself, I found absolutely perfect. The innovative technology integrated throughout the ship was truly on point, from interactive displays to advanced digital systems that enhance guest convenience. We meticulously packed as many activities as possible into our two days onboard, taking full advantage of the shorter lines and less crowded venues, a unique benefit of this media cruise, which hosted only a fraction of the ship’s usual passenger capacity. This allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in all the Anthem had to offer, making every moment count.

World-Class Entertainment That Amazes

The entertainment program on the Anthem of the Seas was, without exaggeration, the finest I have ever encountered on any cruise ship. The sheer depth of talent and the quality of the productions left me absolutely blown away. Kicking off the spectacular lineup was the band “Phoenix LV,” whose live performances were nothing short of sensational. Their energy, musical prowess, and ability to connect with the audience made them, hands down, the best live band I’ve ever seen. The main theatrical production, “We Will Rock You,” was beyond entertaining. This vibrant, high-energy show, celebrating the music of Queen, featured exceptional singing voices and dynamic choreography that had the audience on their feet. A crucial tip for anyone sailing on the Anthem: make sure you stay until the very end for the undeniable highlight of the show – a phenomenal rendition of “Bohemian Rhapsody” that truly encapsulated the spirit and power of Queen’s legendary music.

However, my absolute favorite show of all was a production titled “The Gift.” Royal Caribbean describes “The Gift” as “a musical journey of fantasy and illusion that begins one stormy night with the arrival of a magical gift.” This description barely scratches the surface of its profound beauty. The storytelling, the visuals, and the emotional resonance were so powerful that I found myself in tears for nearly half the show. It was an incredibly touching and visually stunning narrative, unlike anything I’d ever seen at sea. While I wouldn’t dream of spoiling its unique plot twists, I can emphatically state that “The Gift” is an absolute MUST-SEE for anyone cruising on the Anthem of the Seas. Prepare to be moved, enchanted, and thoroughly captivated by this extraordinary theatrical masterpiece. The blend of artistry, technology, and heartfelt performance created an experience that lingered long after the final curtain call.

Thrilling Onboard Activities for Every Adventurer

Beyond the spectacular shows and live music, the Anthem of the Seas boasts an incredible array of activities designed to thrill and entertain guests of all ages. You’ll find everything from classic cruise pastimes to groundbreaking, high-adrenaline adventures. Guests can enjoy roller-skating, try their luck at a sprawling casino, or relive childhood joys with exhilarating bumper cars – a truly unexpected and delightful feature to find on a cruise ship! The bumper cars were a massive hit, bringing out the inner child in both kids and adults, providing endless laughter and fun. For those seeking a unique thrill, Ripcord by iFly offers an indoor skydiving experience that simulates the sensation of freefall. Yes, I did this, and it was an absolutely exhilarating rush! You can also catch a wave right on board at the FlowRider surf simulator, a fantastic way to test your balance or simply enjoy watching others ride the simulated swells. And for the truly adventurous, there’s even a circus school offering trapeze training, allowing guests to soar to new heights. There is so much to do on this ship that you will genuinely have more exciting options than you can possibly fit into your time onboard. The sheer variety ensures that whether you’re looking for relaxation, excitement, or something completely new, the Anthem of the Seas has it all.

My husband, ever the thrill-seeker, was particularly excited about the Ripcord by iFly experience. This indoor skydiving tube, located at the back of the ship, expertly simulates the feeling of freefalling without ever leaving the vessel. He practically forced me to try it out, and I’m so incredibly glad he did! It was an incredibly cool and unique experience, providing an adrenaline rush unlike any other I’ve had at sea. For those curious to see the action, I even posted a video of my iFly adventure on YouTube, which you can view here. It’s a definite highlight and a must-try for anyone looking to push their boundaries.

Another iconic feature of the Anthem of the Seas is the North Star observation capsule. This jewel-shaped glass pod gently lifts guests over 300 feet above sea level, providing truly breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean, the ship, and any surrounding landscapes. It’s an unparalleled perspective, offering what feels like the best seat in the house for magnificent vistas, from sunrises and sunsets to port views. The sensation of silently ascending in the glass capsule, with the vast ocean stretching out beneath you, is both serene and utterly mesmerizing.

The Two70 venue onboard is a marvel of architectural and technological innovation. During our final night, we experienced “Spectra’s Cabaret” here, a show that completely redefined what theatrical performance on a cruise could be. The entire room undergoes a dramatic transformation, utilizing state-of-the-art robotics, aerialists, and stunning projection mapping to create an electric, multi-dimensional cabaret experience. You are literally transported into invisible realms, captivated by catchy pop music and dazzling visual effects. It’s not just a show; it’s an immersive journey that combines cutting-edge technology with incredible live performance, making it one of the most dynamic and memorable entertainment spaces at sea.

Stateroom Comfort and Cutting-Edge Innovation

The stateroom layouts on the Anthem of the Seas were notably different from what I was accustomed to on other ships, and in the best possible way. They are remarkably roomy and thoughtfully designed, maximizing space and comfort. What truly impressed me, however, was the innovative inclusion of virtual balconies in interior rooms. Imagine a cabin without a window, yet offering a real-time, floor-to-ceiling view of the ocean or the destination – projected onto a large screen! It’s an incredibly cool feature that brings the outside in, making interior staterooms feel far more open and connected to the sea. During our tour, we also had the opportunity to explore the opulent Royal Loft Suite. This multi-level masterpiece offers unparalleled luxury, expansive living areas, and breathtaking views, serving as a glimpse into the ultimate cruise indulgence (perhaps someday!). The attention to detail, from plush furnishings to smart storage solutions, ensures a comfortable and sophisticated retreat for every guest, regardless of cabin category.

The Bionic Bar stands as a true emblem of innovation, proudly holding the title of the world’s first true robotic bar. It’s a fascinating and incredibly popular attraction, captivating guests throughout our entire trip. Watching robots meticulously mix and serve your drinks is a genuinely unique and entertaining experience. The process is simple yet futuristic: you place your order on an iPad, choosing from a menu of traditional cocktails or unleashing your creativity by completely customizing your own drink, selecting every ingredient and spirit. I must admit, I had a little too much fun experimenting with different concoctions! It’s not just a novelty; it’s a brilliant fusion of technology and hospitality that adds an exciting, interactive dimension to the ship’s social scene.

A Culinary Journey: Revolutionizing Dining at Sea

As a dedicated food blogger, the culinary offerings on any cruise are paramount to my experience, and the Anthem of the Seas truly delivered beyond all expectations. There is absolutely no shortage of incredible dining options, and I can confidently say that the food quality aboard this ship was the best I have ever tasted on any cruise. The groundbreaking concept of “Dynamic Dining” was new to me, and initially, my inherent dislike for change made me uncertain of what to expect. However, I quickly became a convert. Dynamic Dining is a brilliant approach that revolutionizes traditional cruise dining, offering guests unparalleled flexibility and diversity in their culinary journey. It presents two main options: “Dynamic Dining Choice,” which allows guests to decide when, where, and with whom to dine each evening, and “Dynamic Dining Classic,” for those who prefer a more traditional experience with a consistent dining time and table companions. This innovative system ensures that every meal can be a fresh and exciting adventure, catering to all preferences and moods.

Dynamic Dining replaces the single main dining room with five complimentary, full-service restaurants, each boasting its own distinctive cuisine, ambiance, and impeccable service. These include the vibrant American Icon Grill, the sophisticated Chic, the exotic Silk, and the elegant The Grande (with a fifth exclusive to Suite guests). Each of these venues features rotating menus that introduce new and exciting selections nightly, alongside a few beloved favorites that remain consistently available. This constant change of pace ensures that you will never get bored with the food; every evening feels like a new dining adventure. In addition to these included options, there are also exceptional specialty restaurants available at a reasonable additional cost. We absolutely adored Jamie’s Italian, the popular eatery from Britain’s famous chef and campaigner, Jamie Oliver. The food was utterly delectable, offering rustic Italian flavors crafted with fresh ingredients, and we quite literally stuffed ourselves with every delightful dish. The commitment to culinary excellence extended to every corner of the ship, including the Windjammer Cafe, which offered a vast and delicious buffet spread, and all the specialty dining restaurants we had the pleasure of trying. The overall quality of both food and service on the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas far surpassed my expectations, truly setting a new benchmark for cruise ship dining.

During our culinary exploration, I was also incredibly fortunate to take a behind-the-scenes tour of the ship’s massive kitchens with the talented culinary specialist, David Reihana. It was an absolutely fascinating experience to get an inside scoop on the intricate operations required to feed thousands upon thousands of people each day, all while at sea. Witnessing the army of dedicated chefs in action, working with military precision amidst millions of dollars worth of state-of-the-art kitchen equipment, was truly mind-blowing. The sheer scale, organization, and commitment to hygiene and quality were astounding, providing a profound appreciation for the immense effort that goes into every single dish served onboard. This tour offered a unique glimpse into the heart of the ship’s gastronomic magic, highlighting the passion and expertise of the entire culinary team.

An Unforgettable Voyage: My Verdict on Anthem of the Seas

For both novice and experienced cruisers, I wholeheartedly recommend the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas. My husband and I extend our sincere gratitude to Royal Caribbean for such an amazing and insightful trip. The exceptional service we encountered everywhere on board was consistently excellent, and the ship itself was immaculately clean, comfortable, and truly impressive. This experience solidified my belief that cruising is genuinely for everyone, because it is precisely what you choose to make of it: an opportunity to indulge in luxury, embark on thrilling adventures, or simply relax and rejuvenate. The Anthem of the Seas offers an abundant variety of world-class dining options to explore, and enough innovative entertainment and activities to ensure your time at sea is an experience to remember forever. What ultimately stood out to me the most, and forms the core of a truly perfect vacation, were the wonderful food and the unforgettable entertainment. These two aspects, often considered the pillars of a great cruise, were executed flawlessly on the Anthem. I was incredibly impressed by every facet of what this ship had to offer and thoroughly cherished every moment of my time on the Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas. It has undoubtedly raised the bar for my future cruise expectations, and I eagerly anticipate my next voyage. Until then, thank you, Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas, for an unparalleled journey!