I am a diamond level on RCL and my husband was disappointed when I couldn't book the Anthem because I found the best price on the escape. I booked three sail away balconies for my family. My family including my husband who can be difficult to please were blown away by the entertainment on the escape. I must admit I adore the ice shows and water diving shows on RCL but the entertainment on the escape made me not miss them at all. After midnight, Choir Boys and a sit down dinner theater with incredible magician and an incredible male singing group(can't remember name unfortunately) made me feel like I was either on Broadway in NYC or Vegas. My grandchildren ages 9 and 15 were extremely happy with their activities. I will never forget this cruise and I have been on far too many. I don't know if entertainers on cruise ships get awards but every single one of them on this ship deserves one.

The only downfall for this cruise is embarkation in NYC. It is difificult for my family to get transportation there and parking is very expensive. My husband definitely prefers Bayonne NJ because of the ease and simplicity of embarkation there.

What I have learned from all of my cruises is that every ship is different. They are like people with strengths and weaknesses. Your goal should pick the one that best fufills your wishes. Read more