Anthem of the Seas vs Spectrum of the Seas

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

When you're trying to choose between these two impressive Royal Caribbean ships, the biggest difference comes down to age and refinement. Spectrum of the Seas launched in 2019, making it four years newer than Anthem of the Seas, which debuted in 2015.

Both ships belong to Royal Caribbean's innovative Quantum Class, but Spectrum feels like the more polished sibling. It's slightly larger at 169,379 gross tons compared to Anthem's 168,666 tons, though you'd barely notice this difference when walking around either ship.

The passenger capacity tells an interesting story too. While both ships carry around 4,200 guests at double occupancy, Spectrum can pack in about 700 more people at maximum capacity. This happens because Spectrum was designed with more family-friendly cabin configurations and connecting rooms.

Key Design Philosophy Differences

Anthem was built as Royal Caribbean's tech showcase for global markets. Spectrum, however, was specifically crafted for Asian families and multi-generational travel groups. This focus shows up everywhere - from the expanded kids' areas to the way dining venues are arranged.

Which ship offers better dining and entertainment options?

Spectrum takes the crown here, hands down. It features 19 different dining venues compared to Anthem's solid but smaller selection. Both ships have crowd favorites like Wonderland and specialty restaurants, but Spectrum adds unique experiences you won't find on Anthem.

The entertainment game gets more interesting when you compare them. Both ships deliver those signature Quantum Class experiences - the RipCord skydiving simulator, North Star observation capsule that lifts you 300 feet above sea level, and those mesmerizing robotic bartenders at Bionic Bar.

What Spectrum Adds to the Mix

Spectrum brings some fresh entertainment concepts that weren't around when Anthem launched. Star Moment karaoke gives you a chance to feel like a pop star, complete with backup dancers and special effects. The Two70 venue on Spectrum also features updated technology for their evening shows.

The dining robots on Spectrum work faster and more efficiently than Anthem's earlier versions. It's one of those small improvements that actually makes your vacation smoother.

How do the cabin options compare between these ships?

This is where Spectrum really shines. Both ships offer the standard range of interior, ocean view, balcony, and suite categories you'd expect. But Spectrum's accommodations feel more thoughtfully designed for different types of travelers.

Family Accommodations

Spectrum's Ultimate Family Suite became legendary almost immediately after launch. Picture this: a two-level suite with its own slide connecting the floors, a private cinema, and enough space for eight people. Anthem simply doesn't have anything quite this spectacular.

The regular family cabins on Spectrum also tend to be more spacious and better configured for families with kids. Many feature bunk beds and additional storage that parents actually find useful.

Suite Class Experience

If you're considering suite accommodations, Spectrum offers the Suite Class experience that Anthem lacks. This means private dining areas, exclusive lounges, and a sun deck just for suite guests. It's like having a ship within a ship.

Anthem's suites are comfortable and well-appointed, but they don't come with the same level of exclusive perks and dedicated spaces.

Which ship is better for families with children?

Spectrum wins this comparison pretty decisively. The ship was designed from the ground up with families in mind, especially those traveling with multiple generations.

Splashaway Bay on Spectrum is an aquatic playground that puts Anthem's kids' areas to shame. We're talking about water slides, splash zones, and climbing areas that keep children entertained for hours. Anthem has decent kids' facilities, but they feel more basic by comparison.

Teen and Tween Spaces

Both ships understand that teenagers need their own hangout spots. However, Spectrum's teen areas feel more current and Instagram-worthy. The arcade games are newer, the seating areas more comfortable, and the overall vibe more aligned with what today's teens actually want.

What about the overall ship atmosphere and crowd?

Here's where personal preference really matters. Anthem attracts a diverse international crowd and tends to have a slightly more mature feel. The passengers often skew toward experienced cruisers who appreciate the ship's innovative features without needing all the latest bells and whistles.

Spectrum, being newer and more family-focused, draws younger families and first-time cruisers. The energy feels more dynamic, sometimes bordering on hectic during peak times. If you love that bustling vacation atmosphere, you'll probably prefer Spectrum.

Cultural Considerations

Since Spectrum was designed for Asian markets, you'll notice more Asian cuisine options and cultural touches throughout the ship. This creates a more internationally diverse dining and entertainment experience, even when sailing in other regions.

Which ship offers better value for money?

This question doesn't have a straightforward answer because it depends entirely on what you value most. Anthem often costs less to book, especially for interior and standard balcony cabins. For budget-conscious travelers who still want that Quantum Class experience, Anthem delivers excellent value.

Spectrum typically commands higher prices, but you're paying for newer everything - newer carpets, newer technology, newer cabin designs, and more dining options. Whether that premium feels worth it depends on how much those upgrades matter to you.

Hidden Value Factors

Consider that Anthem received a significant refurbishment in 2025, which updated many of its public spaces and dining venues. This helps close the gap between the two ships' overall condition and amenities.

The suite class perks on Spectrum represent genuine added value if you're booking higher-category accommodations. For standard cabin categories, the value difference becomes less pronounced.

Which ship should you choose for your cruise?

Choose Anthem if you want a proven Quantum Class experience at a potentially lower price point. It's perfect for couples, adult groups, or families who don't need the absolute latest amenities. The ship still feels fresh and innovative, especially after its recent refurbishment.

Go with Spectrum if you're traveling with multiple generations, have young children, or simply want the newest version of Royal Caribbean's technology and design. The enhanced family facilities and additional dining options make it worth the premium for many travelers.

Both ships sail from different home ports and visit different regions, so your itinerary preferences might ultimately make the decision for you. Either way, you're getting one of the most innovative cruise experiences available today.