Ship Comparison
Anthem of the Seas vs Voyager of the Seas
For a cutting-edge, tech-forward resort experience, choose Anthem of the Seas; for a classic, recently refreshed family adventure, Voyager of the Seas delivers.
The verdict
Anthem of the Seas, launched in 2015, stands as a beacon of modern cruising, offering a flashy, resort-like atmosphere with a strong emphasis on technology and innovative thrills. It's designed for those who seek non-stop action and high-tech experiences, from robot bartenders to virtual balconies. Voyager of the Seas, while a classic from 1998, received a significant refurbishment in 2019, bringing it up to date with family-friendly favorites like waterslides and laser tag. It offers a more traditional yet equally vibrant and activity-focused cruise, appealing to those who appreciate a solid, fun-filled vacation without the latest bells and whistles.
Choose Anthem of the Seas if…
Anthem of the Seas is ideal for guests who thrive on innovation and a high-energy, contemporary cruise experience. It caters to thrill-seekers, tech enthusiasts, and families looking for diverse, active entertainment and a sophisticated, modern atmosphere.
Best for
- Thrill-seeking families looking for cutting-edge activities like skydiving simulators and bumper cars.
- Tech-forward explorers who appreciate innovative features like robot bartenders and superfast Wi-Fi.
- Entertainment enthusiasts desiring Broadway-caliber shows and dynamic, multi-sensory performances.
- Culinary adventurers keen to explore diverse dining, from molecular gastronomy to celebrity chef Italian.
- Adults seeking a serene escape within a lively ship, thanks to the dedicated Solarium.
Avoid if
- You prefer a more intimate, traditional cruise experience with fewer crowds.
- You are on a strict budget, as many premium experiences and dining venues incur additional costs.
- You dislike high-tech novelties and prefer classic, low-key entertainment.
- You are a light sleeper and prefer cabins away from busy amenities on decks 3, 6, and 13.
Choose Voyager of the Seas if…
Voyager of the Seas is perfect for families and multi-generational groups seeking a versatile, activity-packed vacation with a balance of classic cruise charm and modern upgrades. It appeals to budget-conscious travelers who value a wide range of complimentary fun.
Best for
- Active families with children of all ages, offering waterslides, laser tag, and a comprehensive kids' club.
- Budget-conscious fun-seekers looking for a wide range of complimentary activities and good value.
- Social explorers who enjoy a lively atmosphere with ample opportunities for interaction and people-watching.
- Multi-generational groups seeking diverse activities that cater to all ages, from toddlers to seniors.
- Cruisers who appreciate a balance of daytime relaxation and vibrant evening entertainment.
Avoid if
- You prefer the very latest in cruise ship technology and cutting-edge innovations.
- You expect extensive luxury suite perks beyond standard offerings, as it lacks a Royal Genie service.
- You are looking for a quiet, intimate cruise experience, as the ship is generally lively and bustling.
- You require modern cabin amenities with multiple power points and USB ports, as these are limited.
Overall Vibe
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas, a Quantum Class mega-ship launched in 2015, exudes a vibe of modern sophistication blended with pure fun, reminiscent of a grand Las Vegas resort. Spanning 14 decks and a width of 41 meters, it's designed to impress with its scale and contemporary aesthetic. The ship's personality is defined by its cutting-edge attractions and innovative spaces, offering a dynamic and engaging environment where technology enhances the guest experience at every turn. It truly feels like a floating, integrated entertainment complex, catering to those who appreciate a forward-thinking and energetic holiday.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas, a large, family-friendly ship launched in 1998 and extensively refurbished in 2019, offers a vibrant and activity-focused atmosphere. Despite its age, the refurbishment brought a fresh, modern feel, particularly to its family amenities. With 14 decks and a width of 47 meters, it provides ample space for a lively holiday. The ship's character is one of robust fun and accessibility, leaning into classic cruise entertainment while integrating newer attractions. It's a ship that embraces its role as a welcoming, versatile playground for guests of all ages, ensuring a social and engaging journey.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Anthem of the Seas
Carrying up to 4,180 passengers with a crew of 1,500, Anthem of the Seas fosters a bustling, lively atmosphere. The sheer number of guests means public spaces, while well-designed, can feel energetic and sometimes crowded. The ship attracts a diverse crowd, from families drawn to its numerous activities to couples seeking high-end dining and entertainment. The emphasis is on a resort-style experience, where guests can choose between high-octane thrills or more relaxed, adult-only areas like the Solarium, allowing for varied social interactions and personal space.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas, with a capacity for 3,258 passengers and a crew of 1,176, maintains a vibrant and social atmosphere, particularly after its 2019 refurbishment. It's known for being family-friendly, so expect a lively mix of multi-generational groups and younger travelers. While large, the ship's design encourages interaction and a communal spirit, especially around its active zones and the Royal Promenade. It's a ship where fun and shared experiences are central, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bustling environment and ample opportunities to socialize.
Dining
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas boasts an impressive array of 18 dining venues. Complimentary options include the diverse Main Dining Room (The Grande, Chic, Silk, American Icon Grill), the extensive Windjammer Marketplace buffet, and casual bites at Solarium Bistro, Sorrento's Pizza, Cafe Promenade, The Cafe @ Two70, and SeaPlex Dog House. For an additional charge, guests can indulge in celebrity chef Jamie Oliver's rustic Italian cuisine at Jamie's Italian, the imaginative molecular gastronomy of Wonderland, fresh sushi at Izumi, classic steaks at Chops Grille, or retro American fare at Johnny Rockets. The Chef’s Table offers an exclusive five-course experience.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas offers a strong selection of dining experiences, with its Main Dining Room providing complimentary gourmet courses across three elegant decks. Other included options are the 24-hour Cafe Promenade and the international buffet at Windjammer Marketplace. Specialty dining, available for an additional charge, includes the cozy, family-style Italian dishes at Giovanni's Table, the signature cuts at Chops Grille, and Japanese fusion at Izumi. For a quick, classic American bite, Johnny Rockets is a popular choice, while the Pig & Whistle Pub offers a gastropub experience. The exclusive Chef’s Table provides an intimate gourmet dinner.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Anthem of the Seas
Entertainment on Anthem of the Seas is cutting-edge and diverse, highlighted by Broadway-caliber West End musical "We Will Rock You" and the innovative multi-sensory performances at Two70, like Spectra's Cabaret. Thrill-seekers can enjoy RipCord by iFly skydiving, the FlowRider surf simulator, and the SeaPlex, which features bumper cars, roller skating, and a circus school. Nightlife is vibrant with robot bartenders at the Bionic Bar, live music and karaoke in the Music Hall, Latin dancing at Boleros, and a lively Casino Royale. Outdoor film nights and unique experiences like the Stowaway Piano Player add to the ship's dynamic offerings.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas delivers a robust entertainment lineup, with the La Scala Theatre hosting Broadway-style productions and guest entertainers. Unique to Voyager are the ice-skating shows in Studio B, offering impressive performances. Active guests can challenge themselves on The Perfect Storm waterslides, the FlowRider surf simulator, or engage in a glow-in-the-dark laser tag battle for Planet Z. Nightlife buzzes with live bands and DJs at High Notes, a classic English Pub with live music, and the Casino Royale for gaming. The ship also features a mini-golf course, rock-climbing wall, and a sports court for daytime fun.
Cabins & Suites
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas offers 2,091 cabins, with a wide variety to suit every preference, including 34 wheelchair-accessible options. Interior cabins feature 80-inch high-definition virtual balconies, bringing real-time ocean views inside. Unique to this ship are the multi-level Loft Suites (Royal, Owner's, Grand, Sky Loft Suites), which offer expansive living spaces, multiple balconies, and exclusive perks like Royal Genie service in Star Class. Solo travelers are well-catered for with Studio Ocean View Balcony and Studio Interior cabins. Family-friendly options include Family Junior Suites and Royal Family Suites, ensuring comfortable stays for larger groups, and many cabins are larger than the industry average.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas provides 1,800 cabins, including 25 wheelchair-accessible staterooms, ensuring a comfortable retreat for all guests. The ship offers a range of options, from standard interior cabins (160 sq ft) and Promenade View interiors (167 sq ft) overlooking the Royal Promenade, to Ocean View cabins and various Balcony staterooms. A notable feature is the Ocean View Panoramic Suite without a balcony, offering expansive views and accommodating up to 6 guests, perfect for families. Suite guests, from Junior Suites to the Royal Suite, enjoy perks like priority boarding and access to the Suite Lounge, with the Royal Suite featuring a baby grand piano and private whirlpool for ultimate luxury.
Service & Onboard Style
Anthem of the Seas
The onboard style of Anthem of the Seas is one of modern luxury and efficiency. The ship utilizes technology for a streamlined experience, including iPad check-in and the Royal IQ app for bookings. Guests in Grand Suites and above receive access to the Concierge Lounge and Coastal Kitchen, along with priority boarding and reserved theater seating, ensuring a premium service level. Star Class suite guests benefit from Personalized Royal Genie Service. The crew of 1,500 ensures attentive service, complementing the ship's bold and sophisticated ambiance, though the large passenger count means a personalized touch can vary in general areas.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas maintains a friendly and attentive service style, a hallmark of Royal Caribbean, with a crew of 1,176. The ship's 2019 refurbishment aimed to enhance guest experience, and while it doesn't boast the same level of tech integration as newer ships, the service remains efficient and welcoming. Guests in Grand Suites and above receive exclusive access to the Suite Lounge, offering complimentary evening drinks and a dedicated concierge, along with priority boarding and reserved pool loungers. The overall style is geared towards a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where staff are readily available to assist, fostering a positive and social environment.
Best Itineraries
Anthem of the Seas
Anthem of the Seas offers a diverse range of itineraries appealing to various travelers. Guests can explore the picturesque South Pacific, discover the stunning landscapes of New Zealand, or embark on adventurous Alaska cruises, including those featuring the Hubbard Glacier. The ship also undertakes longer Transpacific journeys and shorter getaways to Hawaii, Sydney, and Hobart. This variety ensures that whether you're seeking a tropical escape, a scenic expedition, or a brief city break, Anthem of the Seas has an itinerary designed to match your travel aspirations, often visiting Perfect Day at CocoCay® on selected sailings.
Voyager of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas is well-suited for itineraries that emphasize active exploration and family fun. It frequently sails to the Alaskan wilderness, offering scenic cruises, and also explores the vibrant South Pacific and Queensland regions. For those seeking warmer climates and cultural experiences, the ship offers cruises to destinations like Ensenada, Cabo, and Mazatlan in Mexico. Shorter Brisbane and Airlie Beach Getaways are also available. The ship's robust activity offerings make it an excellent choice for destinations where onboard fun complements the shore excursions, ensuring a balanced and engaging holiday experience.
What reviewers say
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.
Voyager of the Seas
4.5/5The Voyager of the Seas is a versatile, activity-minded ship, ideally suited for families and cruisers of all ages. Its 2019 refurbishment introduced modern, family-friendly amenities, ensuring a fun and social experience for budget-conscious travelers.
Itineraries to compare
Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.
Anthem of the Seas
Voyager of the Seas
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Anthem of the Seas: A Modern Resort at Sea
Discover abundant dining, entertainment, and sophisticated fun on this bold Royal Caribbean ship.

Ship Guide
Voyager of the Seas: An Activity-Packed Family Cruise
Experience a versatile Royal Caribbean adventure, ideal for families seeking fun activities and diverse entertainment.
Compare different ships
Swap either side to generate a new side-by-side comparison.
Ship A
Ship B