Anthem of the Seas Review
Great staff and great room - dining room issues though
Rating by category
Additional details
Embarkation was smooth and easy in Bayonne. Once our lyft driver dropped us off, we walked right up to an Ipad wielding staff person who retook our pictures (even though the ones we submitted were according to instructions) and then we waited behind 4-5 others in a short security line and within 10 min of walking in the door, we were on our way onto the ship at 11am! One note I noticed -- there was a sign that said you could not only bring 2 bottles of wine on per cabin, but also a 6 pack of water, soda or other non-alcoholic beverage. Wish I would have known that, would have brought on some Coke Zero or Fiji water.
The ship was super clean and well decorated. We had read ahead of time to head to 270 for lunch rather than the super crowded buffet, so we did. Had a great brie and apple and turkey sandwich with pasta salad. We had already reserved all three major shows online as well as a massage and Northstar and Ifly ahead of time. Do yourself a favor and don't wait till you get on the ship to do this. People whined a lot about the reservations being sold out - but it only takes about 10 min online 3 months before you sail.
Our luggage didn't show up right away, so we went looking near the elevators for it and found it. We unpacked (plenty of space! See cabin review) and went topside for sail away. There was no proper sail away party but we enjoyed a few drinks and found our family and friends.
Cabin Review
Ocean View Balcony
Cabin was large and well laid out. I was a bit worried about the bed, as my back often hurts if the beds are too hard. I had read that the beds were too hard, but it was fine. I slept well - but I will say it could have been softer. Pillows were fluffy enough, which is often an issue - I'd say they are better than Courtyard or Spring Hill Suites pillows but not as good as a full service Marriott down pillow. The bathroom was fine - surprised to find only soap and a combo pump of shampoo/conditioner in one. I had thought there would be individual bottles of lotion and shampoo and conditioner and shower gel. Bring your own! Overall not a big deal, but good to know in advance! In short - it was the best room we've had on a cruise ship, never felt cramped or running out of space. Enough room to hang all the clothes for 9 days - no need for hangers from home.