We chose Anthem of the Seas because we love the larger Royal Caribbean ships and living in New Jersey leaving out of Bayonne is beyond a dream. Embarkation was a breeze - all streamlined - not like the old days. Disembarkation was a nightmare. I felt like we were never getting in the cab. They need to figure out a way to keep the crowds smaller. The ship is beautiful but a little disappointing compared to Allure of the Seas which I thought was amazing.

That being said though Anthem was still great! We did the dynamic dining plan which turned out okay but I really think we prefer a dining room environment where the waiter and busboy know you and what you like and don't like. We ate 2 nights in The Grand restaurant (complimentary) and had 2 of the most amazing dinners ever! Like a 5 star restaurant. Only downside - if you are not someone who likes to dress up men do need a sports jacket and most men were in either a suit and most wore a shirt and tie even though it did not say tie required. The lobster tails there were the best any of us have ever eaten. We ate in Silk which is like Asian Fusion type food. It is not like your local restaurant so the food is a little weird but it was decent and a little different. The Windjammer buffet is terrific. I have been on a lot of cruises all of course with buffets and this one was the best by far. Service and selection both really, really good. Also ate in American Icon and it was good as well. The food was really good all over. No complaints at all. If you have to drop one or 2 restaurants drop Silk and/or Chic. Was not thrilled with either. We felt no need to do the upgrade restaurants. The complimentary places are really good and after talking to other guests that paid the up charges they all said they would not do it again. Not worth it.

Loved the Solarium for adults only. That was the one thing that I like better than on the Allure where we felt the adult area was too small for the size of the ship. It seems they improved on that on the Anthem. You must get down early to claim your seats because the Solarium fills up fast. They also have round beds that are beyond comfortable and those are harder to get then the lounges.