We chose this cruise because I love 9 day cruises. I am always sad to leave after 7 days so this was our 2nd 9 day out of Newark. We went because we wanted to experience the newer ANTHEM of the Seas. The ship is beautiful and the cabins are larger. However the hallways are more narrow, which explains the room they found for the rooms.The Solarium Pool (my favorite) was super and 3X the normal size. However, the main pool was 3X smaller than most RCCL ships and most people complained. There was a inside pool also, but few used it. What was different on this ships was the way RCCL packed numerous rest. and shops in the usual Promenade, lower ceilings, which gave it a CARNIVAL CRUISE line feel. You were elbow to elbow most of the cruise? Wheelchair folks, baby stollers, and walker folks kept the ship moving slow, and narrow hallways a tight grind all the time. The ship seems to have a constant vibration which does weight on you over time.

Food wise, I recommend the 2/70 Bistro fresh salads, grilled paninis and grilled cheese sandwiches. Main Dining room leaves a lot to be desired, REALLY ! Chops meat is good, sides suck. The Jamies Italian, is not Italian . Allure of the Seas Giovanni Italian "IS ITALIAN" Jamies on Anthem is Glorified TV Dinner with a talkative waiter. We love booking on ship because it gives great discounting, but we booked on a Oasis Class (Harmony) for 2018. Harmony is more open, Larger general areas, traditional foods.