Anthem of the Seas vs Navigator of the Seas

What are the main differences between Anthem of the Seas and Navigator of the Seas?

These two Royal Caribbean ships couldn't be more different in personality, even though they're from the same cruise line. Anthem of the Seas belongs to the newer Quantum Class, launched in 2015, while Navigator of the Seas represents the classic Voyager Class from 2002 that got a major makeover in 2019.

The size difference is pretty noticeable – Anthem stretches 1,141 feet compared to Navigator's 1,020 feet. With 168,666 gross tons, Anthem outweighs Navigator's 139,999 tons by about 20%. This translates to roughly 800 more passengers on Anthem at double occupancy (4,180 vs 3,386).

But here's where it gets interesting: Navigator is actually wider at 157 feet versus Anthem's 136 feet. This creates a completely different feel when you're walking around the ship.

Which ship has better amenities and activities?

This really depends on what gets your heart racing. Anthem brings the futuristic wow factor with its North Star observation capsule that lifts you 300 feet above sea level, giving you incredible 360-degree views. You'll also find skydiving simulators, bumper cars, and some seriously impressive indoor entertainment venues.

Navigator takes a different approach, especially after its 2019 renovation. The ship focuses heavily on water-based thrills with The Perfect Storm waterslides – The Blaster and Riptide will have you screaming with delight. The pool deck doubled in size during the renovation, creating this amazing aquatic playground.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Anthem's entertainment leans high-tech with venues like Music Hall and Two70, which features floor-to-ceiling windows and immersive performances. Navigator keeps things lively with its famous Royal Promenade – passengers often say it feels more colorful and energetic than Anthem's version.

Navigator's amplification added some fantastic nightlife spots too, making evenings feel more social and connected.

What about dining options on both ships?

Both ships offer Royal Caribbean's signature dining variety, but they approach it differently. Anthem provides more contemporary dining spaces with sleek, modern designs that match its futuristic vibe. The restaurants feel spacious and tech-integrated.

Navigator's dining received significant upgrades during its renovation. The variety improved dramatically, and many venues got fresh new looks. The atmosphere tends toward classic cruise dining with updated twists rather than Anthem's completely modern approach.

Which ship offers better value for families?

Navigator might edge out Anthem for families, particularly those with kids who love water activities. Those waterslides are absolute kid magnets, and the wider design creates more open spaces for children to explore safely.

The Royal Promenade on Navigator buzzes with family-friendly activities throughout the day. Parents appreciate how the ship's layout makes it easier to keep track of kids while still giving them freedom to roam.

Anthem works well for families seeking variety in activities. The bumper cars and skydiving simulator appeal to older kids and teens, while the observation capsule creates those Instagram-worthy family moments.

How do the cabins compare between the two ships?

Anthem's staterooms reflect its newer construction with more modern fixtures, better lighting, and contemporary design elements. The layouts feel fresh and thoughtfully planned.

Navigator's cabins got refreshed during the 2019 renovation, so they don't feel dated despite the ship being older. The slightly wider beam means some cabin categories might feel a bit more spacious than you'd expect.

Both ships offer similar cabin variety – interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite options. The real difference lies in the design aesthetic rather than functional space.

Which ship handles crowds better?

This creates an interesting comparison. Anthem carries more passengers but spreads them across a larger ship with more venues. The modern design includes better crowd flow planning.

Navigator's post-renovation layout improved crowd distribution significantly. The expanded pool deck alone helps distribute passengers more evenly. However, popular areas like the Royal Promenade can still feel packed during peak times.

Both ships maintain similar space ratios per passenger (Anthem at 40 gross tons per passenger, Navigator at 41), so neither feels cramped when well-managed.

What about itineraries and destinations?

Your destination preferences might actually make this decision for you. Anthem typically sails longer itineraries and often heads to cooler weather destinations where outdoor pool activities matter less.

Navigator frequently operates in the Caribbean and other warm-weather routes where those amazing waterslides and expanded pool areas really shine. The ship seems purpose-built for sunny destination cruising.

Which ship should you choose?

Pick Anthem if you want cutting-edge technology, modern design, and unique experiences like the North Star capsule. This ship appeals to cruisers who appreciate innovation and don't mind a larger vessel.

Choose Navigator if you prefer classic Royal Caribbean energy with modern updates, especially if water activities rank high on your priority list. The ship maintains that traditional cruise feel while offering refreshed amenities.

Navigator also works better for shorter cruises where you want to maximize fun time rather than spend days discovering a massive ship. Anthem rewards longer sailings where you have time to explore every innovation it offers.

Both ships deliver excellent Royal Caribbean experiences – they just package the fun differently.