It was wonder to have the opportunity to enjoy a day onboard the incredible Anthem of the Seas, and here’s why I’m recommending it to you!
- you can cruise to and from the UK (Southampton) so no need to waste time, or spend money on flights!
- incredible ship with so much to do, the entertainment is FIRST CLASS;
- family friendly, but great adult only areas.
This weekend I was in Southampton at a three-day Cruise Line Industry Association (CLIA) event, catching up all things cruise! It was an amazing event and I had the chance to spend the day on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas.
All I can say is wow! Royal Caribbean definitely know how to make a first impression, as getting on the ship couldn’t have been smoother!
They directed us immediately to their unique Two70 venue – via the Cafe @ Two70, the onboard gourmet market place, where we enjoyed fresh fruits, breakfast pastries and hot rolls!
The Two70 venue is at the back of the ship and is a multipurpose lounge. Lots of cruise ships have second theatre spaces, but this truly is remarkable.
The technology involved in this space is like nothing I’ve ever seen before. The 270° windows give you fabulous views in the daytime, and become a giant screen at night. Add to this robotic arms with screens mounted on them, that can rotate in any direction. These combine into a multi dimensional performance space that provides an almost indescribable viewing experience.
I had seen and heard many things about this venue, and everyone that saw it raved about it. I’ve never really understood why it was so special until I was there. I took some videos but it’s really not possible to understand the genuine emotional experience that the entertainment provides.
After this incredible start we were able to look around the ship at our leisure and explore some of the other different spaces. Most Royal Caribbean ships have a central promenade, but this ship has a Royal Esplanade. This features shops, bars and restaurants over two levels. It’s a real focal point to the ship and a great place to people watch.
The other space that I really liked on this ship is the main pool deck. There is a large covered pool and a large outdoor pool. So whatever the weather you should be able to swim in comfort.
Another area unique to this class of ship is the SeaPlex. This multipurpose venue can be used for many sports activities but also for bumper cars and trapeze.
There are other unique aspects of this ship including the North star viewing arm, that allows you to get views from above and over the side of the ship. You can also experience indoor skydiving at sea, with ripcord by Ifly.
There’s also the traditional Royal Caribbean favourites like the rock climbing wall and the flow rider safe simulator.
If that wasn’t enough at the front of the ship there is an adult only solarium with three cascading pools. There is also an additional dining venue here which many people miss, the Solarium Bistro. I really like this venue (which is on some other Royal Caribbean shops) as it’s a great alternative at lunchtime to the main buffet.
I could go on and on about the wonderful and unique things on this ship, but it really is something very special!
We are very lucky to have so many wonderful ships sailing out of the UK. If you have not tried cruising, or only ever been on one cruise line, I would encourage you to think about the value and experiences that these incredible floating resorts can offer you.
