We booked this cruise almost 18 months in advance. We wanted to try something out of Cape Liberty, so some of our group wouldn’t have to travel with a small child. We also figured a 5 day cruise would be great to test the waters so to speak with their 18 month old toddler. We’d also never been to Bermuda, and had been told by so many people how wonderful an island it is. So despite the larger than average number of negative reviews for Anthem, we figured we’d give it a chance. We were not disappointed!

Embarkation:

Travel time to the port was a little over an hour, and there was a small amount of construction near the port, that rerouted us thru the side streets in Bayonne. We were in the loop in front of the ship just before 11am, and waited around 15 minutes to be directed to let our passengers and luggage out, before we drove our 2 vehicles into the Parking Garage next door, which is very convenient. We then me t our travel companions outside the terminal and were promptly greeted by 2 employees with iPads who were able to check us in right there outside with our pre-printed Set Sail papers. They were even able to retake our friends pictures that turned out upside down when he uploaded them (He’s in I.T.) After that we walked thru the security checkpoint (Don’t bring scissors) and were directed to a large seating area with white and blue chairs. The blue chairs had rows listed, while the white didn’t. The ship seemed a little behind in boarding, but started at about 12pm. Don’t be nervous by where you are seated. They start at the front blue seats, and make their way to the back, and then start at the back of the white chairs, and make their way forward, then repeat. It’s an efficient way to board without sending the masses all at one time. It works well, but could use some more communication. Other people around got a little antsy. Read more