We chose to take this cruise because it left from New Jersey (a port we could drive to) and visited Coco Cay. Embarkation was simple as long as you arrived at your allotted time and NOT EARLY. Otherwise you had to wait in line. We got right in and quickly through the boarding process. The expedite children under 12 so that made it even easier for us.

Anthem is a great cool weather ship. The indoor Adult only solarium and indoor pools along with a fully enclosed gym made for lots of indoor space in bad or cold weather. There was also plenty of deck space for warm/hot day lounging. This cruise was only about 80% full so there was tons of space and if never felt crowded anywhere.

The Anthem had tons of activities to keep every age group in our party busy and happy. We especially liked the Ifly and bumper cars. Many people reviewed that they could not get free Ifly times but we learned that they drop the free times at 8 am only on port days. Every one of our 5 family members got to do the experience. We actually enjoyed the sea days o Anthem as much as the port days! My husband and teenage son used the gym every morning. It is well equipped. I ran on the track each morning. It is a great length 3 laps is aprx. a mile. Read more