Anthem of the Seas vs Wonder of the Seas

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

These two Royal Caribbean ships belong to completely different classes, which shapes everything about your cruise experience. Anthem of the Seas is a Quantum-class vessel launched in 2015, while Wonder of the Seas represents the newer Oasis class from 2022.

The size difference hits you immediately - Wonder of the Seas towers about 29% larger by gross tonnage, stretching roughly 228,000 GT compared to Anthem's 168,666 GT. Wonder also runs longer at 362 meters versus Anthem's 348 meters, and significantly wider at 64 meters compared to 49 meters.

What this means practically is that Wonder carries up to 6,680 passengers with around 2,200 crew members, while Anthem maxes out around 4,825 passengers with roughly 1,500 crew. You'll definitely feel the difference in crowd density and available space.

Which ship offers better entertainment options?

This becomes a matter of quality versus quantity. Anthem of the Seas consistently earns praise for its theater productions, particularly the spectacular "We Will Rock You" show. The music hall features live musicians, and overall, guests rave about the theatrical entertainment quality.

Wonder of the Seas takes a different approach with more variety but mixed reviews on execution. You'll find ice skating shows, Aqua theater performances, comedy acts, and outdoor youth areas. The ship offers more total shows than Anthem, but many guests report that the theater entertainment doesn't match Anthem's impressive standards.

If you're someone who values a few really outstanding shows over many decent ones, Anthem might win your heart. But families with varied interests often appreciate Wonder's broader entertainment portfolio.

What unique features set each ship apart?

Anthem of the Seas Standout Features

The North Star observation capsule becomes Anthem's signature experience - a glass gondola that rises on a pivoting arm, offering breathtaking 360-degree views. The skydiving simulator lets you experience freefall safely, and the multi-story entertainment venues create an intimate yet grand atmosphere.

Anthem also features an air-lubrication hull system that improves fuel efficiency, showing Royal Caribbean's commitment to environmental considerations even in their older vessels.

Wonder of the Seas Exclusive Amenities

Wonder showcases the evolution of cruise ship design with its new suite neighborhood concept, creating exclusive areas for premium guests. The fully enclosed Solarium provides year-round comfort regardless of weather.

The Vue outdoor bar offers spectacular ocean views, while the innovative "Playscape" combines mini golf, slides, and climbing areas into one massive outdoor playground. The larger pool deck accommodates more families comfortably, with new seating configurations that actually work better than traditional layouts.

How do the ships compare for families?

Wonder of the Seas clearly targets families with its expanded amenities and thoughtful design updates. The outdoor playground areas, larger pool decks, and variety of family-friendly activities make it easier to keep everyone entertained.

However, Anthem shouldn't be dismissed for family cruising. The skydiving simulator and North Star create memorable experiences for kids and teens, while the more manageable size means families won't get as overwhelmed navigating the ship.

Younger children often prefer Wonder's dedicated play areas, while families with teenagers might gravitate toward Anthem's high-tech attractions and superior theater shows.

Which ship provides better value?

This depends heavily on your priorities and travel timing. Anthem of the Seas underwent significant refurbishments in 2020 and 2025, maintaining that classic Royal Caribbean experience while updating key areas.

As the newer ship, Wonder of the Seas commands premium pricing, especially during peak seasons. You're paying for the latest design innovations, larger spaces, and brand-new everything. But "newer" doesn't always mean "better" for every cruiser.

Anthem often offers better deals while still delivering Royal Caribbean's signature experience. The entertainment quality alone might justify choosing Anthem, especially if you can snag it at a lower price point.

How do the dining and accommodation options compare?

Wonder of the Seas benefits from seven years of design evolution since Anthem launched. The suite neighborhood concept creates more exclusive dining venues and premium accommodations that feel genuinely special rather than just expensive.

Anthem's dining remains solid, featuring Royal Caribbean's established specialty restaurants and main dining room concepts. The smaller size actually works in Anthem's favor here - you'll encounter shorter wait times and more intimate dining experiences.

Both ships offer similar cabin categories, but Wonder's newer construction means updated room layouts, better storage solutions, and more modern bathrooms. If you're booking interior or oceanview cabins, the improvements become quite noticeable.

Which ship should you choose?

Your decision ultimately comes down to what type of cruise experience speaks to you. Choose Anthem of the Seas if you value exceptional entertainment, prefer a more manageable ship size, want unique attractions like North Star, and appreciate potentially better pricing.

Go with Wonder of the Seas if you're traveling with a large family, want the newest Royal Caribbean innovations, prefer having maximum activity options, and don't mind paying premium rates for the latest and largest.

Both ships deliver the Royal Caribbean experience effectively, just through different approaches. Anthem perfects the classic formula with standout entertainment, while Wonder reimagines what a cruise ship can be with expanded facilities and family-focused design.