Ship Comparison
Quantum of the Seas vs Anthem of the Seas
For families seeking a blend of high-tech thrills and indoor comfort, Quantum of the Seas delivers, while Anthem of the Seas offers a vibrant, resort-style experience with Broadway-caliber entertainment.
The verdict
Choosing between Quantum of the Seas and Anthem of the Seas means deciding between two ships from Royal Caribbean's innovative Quantum Class, both offering a modern, activity-rich cruise experience. Quantum of the Seas, with its 2019 refurbishment, often sails itineraries where its extensive indoor spaces shine, providing a haven for all ages, though dining quality can vary. Anthem of the Seas, launched a year later in 2015, leans into a flashy, Las Vegas-esque atmosphere, boasting top-tier entertainment like 'We Will Rock You' and a wide array of dining, often with a slightly more consistent culinary experience in its specialty venues. Both ships excel in offering a dynamic, family-friendly vacation, but their nuances in entertainment and overall vibe might sway your preference.
Choose Quantum of the Seas if…
Travelers prioritizing innovative, activity-packed cruises with significant indoor spaces, ideal for families and those cruising in cooler climates who appreciate unique attractions and a lively, tech-forward atmosphere.
Best for
- Families with children of all ages seeking constant entertainment.
- Travelers who appreciate innovative and high-tech onboard features.
- Guests cruising in cooler climates who value extensive indoor activity spaces.
- Luxury seekers desiring a personalized suite experience with exclusive perks.
Avoid if
- You prioritize consistent gourmet dining across all complimentary venues.
- You are looking for Broadway-level theatrical productions.
- You prefer a quieter, more intimate cruise experience.
- You are keen on the North Star experience, as it may be unavailable.
Choose Anthem of the Seas if…
Guests looking for a grand, resort-style cruise with a strong emphasis on varied dining, Broadway-level entertainment, and a vibrant social scene, perfect for families and couples seeking a high-energy vacation.
Best for
- Those seeking a vibrant, resort-like cruise experience with a lively atmosphere.
- Entertainment enthusiasts who love Broadway-caliber shows and cutting-edge performances.
- Foodies eager to explore a wide variety of specialty dining options.
- Families and couples looking for a dynamic and social vacation at sea.
Avoid if
- You prefer a more subdued and intimate cruising environment.
- You are strictly on a budget and wish to avoid extra costs for dining and activities.
- You dislike bustling, high-energy public spaces.
- You are sensitive to bright lights and flashy decor.
Overall Vibe
Quantum of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas, refurbished in 2019, maintains its status as a Quantum Class pioneer, offering a contemporary and dynamic atmosphere. Weighing in as a mega-ship, she provides a wealth of space across her 14 decks, making her feel substantial without being overwhelming. The ship's design thoughtfully integrates technology and diverse activities, creating a versatile environment that can adapt to various cruising regions. Her vibe is one of active exploration and modern comfort, appealing to guests who appreciate a blend of innovative features and classic cruise leisure, even if some elements, like the North Star, are temporarily unavailable.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas, launched in 2015, exudes a bold and polished vibe, often compared to a luxurious Las Vegas resort. This Quantum Class mega-ship spans 14 decks, offering a sophisticated yet fun-filled experience. Her ambiance is distinctly modern and flashy, with whimsical art installations like Gigi the two-deck giraffe adding a playful touch. Anthem’s extensive array of dining and entertainment options, including a full Broadway production, contribute to a lively and engaging atmosphere, making her an excellent choice for those seeking a high-energy, all-encompassing vacation experience at sea.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Quantum of the Seas
With a capacity for 4,180 passengers and a dedicated crew of 1,500, Quantum of the Seas fosters a bustling, family-friendly atmosphere. The ship is particularly well-suited for cold-weather itineraries due to its abundant indoor spaces, such as the expansive SeaPlex and the climate-controlled Solarium, ensuring comfort and entertainment regardless of the weather outside. Families with children of all ages will find themselves at home, enjoying the constant buzz of activities. While lively, the clever layout helps manage crowds, creating a balanced energy that caters to both active adventurers and those seeking relaxation.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas, also accommodating 4,180 passengers with a crew of 1,500, cultivates a vibrant and energetic crowd dynamic. Her atmosphere is often described as sophisticated and fun, appealing to a broad range of guests who appreciate a modern, resort-like setting. The ship's design encourages social interaction, from the lively Music Hall to the engaging Bionic Bar, ensuring there's always a spot for mingling. While popular attractions can draw crowds, the overall feeling is one of constant activity and excitement, making it perfect for those who thrive in a dynamic, social environment.
Dining
Quantum of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas offers a diverse culinary journey across its many venues. Complimentary options include the Main Dining Room, split into four distinctively styled rooms serving a rotating menu, and the Windjammer, a well-arranged buffet with global flavors. For lighter fare, Solarium Bistro provides healthy Mediterranean choices, while Café Two70 is celebrated for its Kummelweck roast beef sandwich. Specialty dining, available for an additional charge, includes Jamie's Italian, Izumi for sushi, Chops Grille for steaks, and the imaginative Wonderland. While complimentary options are plentiful, the overall food quality can be inconsistent, with specialty venues generally offering a more elevated experience.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas boasts an impressive 18 dining venues, ensuring a rich and varied culinary landscape. Guests can enjoy complimentary meals in the Main Dining Room, divided into four themed spaces like The Grande and Chic, or the extensive Windjammer Marketplace. Unique to Anthem among included options is the SeaPlex Dog House and Café @ Two70 for casual bites. For an elevated experience, specialty restaurants like Jamie's Italian, Wonderland with its molecular gastronomy, and Chops Grille provide distinct flavors. Johnny Rockets offers a classic American diner experience, and the English Pub serves traditional pub fare, adding to the ship's diverse culinary appeal, often with a high standard across its many choices.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Quantum of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas delivers a thrilling roster of entertainment, highlighted by innovative attractions. Guests can experience the RipCord by iFly skydiving simulator and the FlowRider surf simulator for adrenaline rushes. The SeaPlex, a massive indoor complex, hosts bumper cars, laser tag, and circus school. The Royal Theatre features productions like 'Sequins & Feathers' and various headliners, though it lacks Broadway shows. The Two70 interactive venue transforms from a daytime lounge to a captivating evening spectacle with Vistarama projections and roboscreens. The Bionic Bar, with its robot bartenders, offers a unique novelty, while the Music Hall and Boleros provide live music and dancing, creating a lively nightlife.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas shines with its extensive and high-caliber entertainment, notably featuring the Broadway hit 'We Will Rock You' in the Royal Theater. The innovative Two70 venue presents 'Spectra's Cabaret,' an immersive show blending technology and live performance with aerialists and robot arms. For active fun, the ship offers RipCord by iFly, FlowRider, a Rock Climbing Wall, and the SeaPlex with bumper cars, roller skating, and even a Trapeze School. Nightlife thrives with live bands in the Music Hall, Latin dancing at Boleros, and the novelty of the Bionic Bar, ensuring a dynamic and engaging experience around the clock.
Cabins & Suites
Quantum of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas offers 2,094 cabins, with a majority (1,570) featuring balconies. Standard cabins are generally more spacious than the industry average, and many interior staterooms come with 'virtual balconies' providing real-time ocean views. A variety of suites cater to different preferences, from Junior Suites with upgraded amenities and Coastal Kitchen access to the opulent, two-level Royal Loft Suite, spanning 1,640 sq. ft. with a 613 sq. ft. balcony. While the cabin design is modern and comfortable, some balcony cabins on Deck 6 may have views obstructed by lifeboats.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas features 2,091 well-designed cabins, noted for their spaciousness and modern decor in blue and brown tones. Like her sister ship, she offers interior cabins with virtual balconies, providing a window to the outside world. The suite offerings are extensive, beginning with Junior Suites that grant access to Coastal Kitchen for dinner, and escalating to the luxurious, multi-level Loft Suites like the Royal Loft Suite. These top-tier accommodations come with an array of exclusive perks, including a dedicated Royal Genie for Star Class guests. It's worth noting that some balcony units on decks 6, 7, and 8 may have obstructed views due to lifeboat placement.
Service & Onboard Style
Quantum of the Seas
Onboard Quantum of the Seas, the service is generally attentive, aiming to enhance the guest experience. The ship's style is contemporary and sleek, reflecting its Quantum Class design with a focus on innovative spaces. Suite guests enjoy a tiered service system, with Sea Class (Junior Suites) receiving perks like priority boarding and dinner access to Coastal Kitchen, while Sky Class (Grand Suites, Sky Loft Suites) adds concierge service and complimentary Voom Wi-Fi. The top-tier Star Class offers a personalized Royal Genie, gratuities, specialty dining, and deluxe beverage packages, ensuring a highly customized and indulgent journey.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas provides a polished and efficient service experience that complements its modern, sophisticated style. The ship's design integrates seamlessly with its service philosophy, emphasizing guest convenience through features like iPad check-in and the Royal App for bookings. Suite guests on Anthem benefit from a comprehensive program, starting with Junior Suites gaining dinner access to Coastal Kitchen. Higher-tier suites, such as Grand Suites and Loft Suites, unlock additional privileges, including concierge service, priority boarding and departure, and for Star Class, a dedicated Royal Genie to curate a truly Personalized and all-inclusive cruise vacation.
Best Itineraries
Quantum of the Seas
Quantum of the Seas offers a diverse range of itineraries, making her a versatile choice for various travel desires. She frequently sails to the sun-drenched coasts of Mexico, including popular stops in Catalina, Ensenada, and Cabo, perfect for shorter getaways. For those seeking cooler climes and breathtaking vistas, Quantum also embarks on Alaska Adventure and Experience cruises, utilizing her excellent indoor facilities. Additionally, she explores the South Pacific and offers Brisbane and Airlie Beach Getaways, appealing to guests looking for exotic destinations and varied cruise durations.
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas is well-positioned for an exciting array of itineraries, catering to different preferences for adventure and relaxation. A significant portion of her offerings includes captivating Alaska cruises, with specific routes highlighting the Hubbard Glacier, providing stunning natural beauty. She also sails to the idyllic islands of Hawaii for those dreaming of tropical escapes. Furthermore, Anthem serves the Australia and New Zealand market with itineraries like Sydney Getaways, Hobart Cruises, and longer South Pacific voyages, offering a broad spectrum of destinations for a memorable cruise experience.
What reviewers say
Quantum of the Seas
4/5Quantum of the Seas offers a wide range of activities and food choices, making it a great ship for families. Its ground-breaking technology and indoor spaces are ideal for cruising in regions where extra indoor space is prized, though food quality can be spotty.
Anthem of the Seas
4.5/5Anthem of the Seas is a bold, beautiful ship offering an abundance of restaurants, bars, and entertainment, reminiscent of a Las Vegas hotel. It provides a modern, sophisticated, and fun atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a resort-like cruise experience.
Itineraries to compare
Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.
Quantum of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Quantum of the Seas: Innovative Family Fun at Sea
Explore a world of groundbreaking activities and diverse dining options, perfect for every family member.

Ship Guide
Anthem of the Seas: A Modern Resort at Sea
Discover abundant dining, entertainment, and sophisticated fun on this bold Royal Caribbean ship.
Compare different ships
Swap either side to generate a new side-by-side comparison.
Ship A
Ship B