Anthem of the Seas significantly outpaces Jewel of the Seas in size and modern amenities, with nearly double the passenger capacity (4,180 vs 2,191) and 87% larger gross tonnage (168,666 GT vs 90,090 GT). The newer Quantum Class Anthem (2015) features cutting-edge entertainment like skydiving simulators, North Star observation pod, bumper cars, and surf simulators, along with 18 dining venues. Jewel of the Seas, a 2004 Radiance Class ship, offers a more intimate experience with slightly better space-per-passenger ratio (41 vs 40). Despite being smaller, Jewel provides a quieter, less crowded atmosphere that appeals to cruisers seeking traditional port experiences and culinary focus.
Anthem of the Seas suits travelers wanting a resort-style cruise packed with high-tech activities, extensive dining options, and modern luxuries like virtual balcony cabins with live ocean views. Jewel of the Seas better serves passengers preferring smaller ship intimacy, less crowded spaces, and destination-focused itineraries that can access smaller ports. The choice ultimately depends on whether you prioritize scale and entertainment variety (Anthem) or a more relaxed, traditional cruising experience with better passenger-to-space ratios (Jewel). Both ships maintain similar passenger-to-crew ratios, ensuring comparable service levels despite their size differences.
Specialty Dining Options
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Complimentary Dining Options
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Amenities
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Frequenty Asked Questions
Anthem of the Seas vs Jewel of the Seas
When you're trying to pick between Royal Caribbean's Anthem of the Seas and Jewel of the Seas, you're basically choosing between two completely different cruise experiences. These ships couldn't be more different if they tried.
Ship Size and Passenger Capacity
The size difference hits you immediately. Anthem of the Seas is a massive 168,666 gross tons stretching 1,141 feet long. Jewel of the Seas feels almost petite at 90,090 gross tons and 962 feet long. That makes Jewel about 47% smaller by tonnage.
Here's where it gets interesting though - Anthem carries 4,180 passengers at double occupancy, nearly twice Jewel's 2,191 passengers. But Jewel actually gives you slightly more space per person with a space ratio of 41 compared to Anthem's 40. So while Anthem has more stuff, Jewel might feel less cramped in certain areas.
Age and Modern Features
Anthem launched in 2015 and just got a fresh renovation in 2025, so everything feels current and polished. Jewel dates back to 2004 but received a solid renovation in 2021. The age gap shows - Anthem has all the latest tech and design elements that make newer ships feel like floating cities.
Ship Classes and Design Philosophy
These ships represent totally different approaches to cruising. Anthem belongs to the Quantum class, designed as a high-tech entertainment powerhouse. Jewel is Radiance class, built for a more traditional cruise experience with better access to smaller ports.
Entertainment and Activities
This is where the ships really diverge. Anthem throws everything at you:
- Skydiving simulator (RipCord by iFly)
- North Star observation pod that lifts you 300 feet above sea level
- Bumper cars and roller skating at SeaPlex
- FlowRider surf simulator
- Multiple water slides and pools
- Ice skating rink
- Zipline
- Up to 18 restaurants and bars
Jewel takes a more relaxed approach. You'll find traditional cruise amenities without all the bells and whistles. The focus shifts toward culinary experiences and a calmer atmosphere. It's well-equipped, just not trying to be a theme park.
Crew and Service
Anthem employs 1,500 crew members compared to Jewel's 852. The passenger-to-crew ratios stay close though - 2.8 for Anthem and 2.6 for Jewel. More crew on Anthem means more services and restaurants to staff.
Cabin Experience
Anthem's interior cabins feature something pretty clever - high-definition screens showing live ocean views, creating virtual balconies. It's not the real thing, but beats staring at a wall. Jewel sticks with traditional interior cabins.
Which Ship Suits You?
Choose Anthem if you want:
- Maximum entertainment options and activities
- The latest cruise ship technology
- Resort-style vacation experience
- Lots of dining variety
- Don't mind crowds and bustle
Pick Jewel if you prefer:
- More intimate, less crowded experience
- Traditional cruising style
- Focus on destinations rather than ship amenities
- Quieter atmosphere
- Slightly more space per passenger
The decision really comes down to your cruising style. Some people love having every possible activity and dining option available. Others find all that overwhelming and prefer a ship that doesn't try to do everything. Neither approach is wrong - they're just different ways to spend a week at sea.
Anthem appeals to first-time cruisers and families who want non-stop action. Jewel attracts experienced cruisers and couples looking for a more refined, destination-focused experience. Both ships deliver what they promise, so think about what matters most for your vacation.