This was our first time doing back-to-back cruises and we thoroughly enjoyed it. Anthem is a different kind of ship with a different rhythm. It takes some getting used to but once you do, it's awesome. There is no one place where all, or even the majority, of the ship's passengers can congregate. Instead, there are a dozen or more venues all around the ship that are designed to break you up into smaller affinity groups. From the Music Hall to 270 to the fantastic Solarium to the SeaPlex and on and on. Want a quiet place to read a book? Head for The Via; a fun diversion? Bumper cars and iFly are inviting and doable even for older cruisers. Even down to the uniquely themed four main restaurants with different decor and menus. It's different from having one MDR, but again, once you get it, it's very enjoyable.

For those who have never done a back-to-back, we found the process to be quite easy. Upon return from the 5-day Bermuda cruise, we left our belongings in our cabin and gathered with the 35 or so other consecutive cruisers at a designated lounge. RC staff escorted us to Customs and then gave us new Seapass cards. The whole process took about 20 minutes and we were the first passengers onboard for the 9-day Canada/New England leg. They even provided a private luncheon for the group to welcome us to the second cruise.

The food was great throughout our time onboard. We only ate in an upcharge restaurant once (Chops) and while the meal was awesome, we didn't think it was worth the extra $84 for two. It was not too many years ago that Chops cost $20pp and the steaks, desserts and even wine glasses were on a grander scale. The complimentary restaurants were excellent. The Grande had filet mignon and lobster tail available every night, and the best dish we had the entire cruise was their lunch appetizer of lobster and shrimp risotto. It was fantastic. We tried as much as possible to avoid The Windjammer, and there are lots of ways to do it. We regularly ate breakfast or lunch at The Grande. Breakfast/brunch was available daily at 270 and the Solarium Bistro as well. Read more