Anthem of the Seas first Aussie season – what’s new and where to go 

• Anthem of the Seas is coming to Australia for its first-ever season.
• While it’s similar to the Royal Caribbean ships we’ve seen in recent years, it does have a few unique features that are important to know.
• We’ve got you covered with itineraries, new features and hidden spots on the ship.

Anthem of the Seas will arrive in Sydney on October 31, 2025 for its first ever Australian season. The ship is a Quantum-class ship like the other Royal Caribbean ships we’ve seen in recent years, such as Ovation or Quantum. But just like any other ship, it has its own unique charm and hidden surprises. 

Royal Caribbean cruisers are quite loyal and enjoy repeat cruises, so having a new ship in town will offer something fresh and new.

Anthem won’t just be a one-hit wonder out of Sydney – it’s already scheduled to come again for the 2026/27 season. 

This guide has you covered on our picks for itineraries, what will be new for those who have already sailed with Royal Caribbean and a few insider tips on how to best enjoy the ship.

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What’s new for Aussies?

Anthem of the Seas is not dissimilar from ships like Quantum and Ovation, which have sailed in Australia before. However, there are definitely some new features for Aussies. 

While many Aussies hoped for a different Royal Caribbean class ship, Anthem of the Seas will have new features never seen before in this market. Here are a few picks for some new places to check out on Anthem that you won’t find on the ships that have sailed Down Under.

Johnny Rockets 

Johnny Rockets is a popular American chain restaurant that also exists on Anthem of the Seas. It has an old school, classic diner vibe, offering a retro feel. 

The menu looks something you might imagine, with options like a Chicken Club Sandwich or hot dogs with loaded fries. Johnny Rockets is also known for its milkshakes, so don’t hesitate to give them a try.

It’s not included dining, so you will have to pay, but it’s a la carte and generally priced pretty reasonably, so if you’re a fan of American food it’s definitely worth a visit. 

We Will Rock You 

We Will Rock You is a classic show on Anthem of the Seas, written by comedian and author Ben Elton. The world-famous show has run in London for over 12 years. 

The whole storyline takes place in the future, where rock ‘n’ roll has been outlawed, but a group of citizens band together to bring it back to life and fight back against those who are banning it. 

You can enjoy a range of Queen songs, reimagined with extravagant production and costuming.

Watch ‘The Gift’

The storyline follows a family that has become estranged since their mother passed away, and the show weaves between reality and a more spiritual universe and perspective.

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Insider tips for Anthem of the Seas

• For something different, make sure you make it to the ‘circus school’ at the Sea Plex. Here you can live out your Cirque de Soleil dreams and learn to fly through the air on a trapeze and plenty more. 
• The Music Hall is your go-to move for a late-night drink and dance, as well as a mixture of tribute and original music shows. If you want something even louder, head downstairs for another bar, which has a bit more of a nightclub vibe.
• If you’re travelling without kids or have a few moments to yourself, the adults-only Solarium pool is the place to go to enjoy some pool tranquillity, away from the madness of the main pool.
• Head to Two70 during the day and you can generally enjoy a series of different craft workshops, some board games, and there’s an internet cafe with great wifi for if you’re looking to get some work done. 
• If the Windjammer is packed and you’re not in the mood for crowds, give Cafe 270 a go instead. 
• As far as late-night food goes, Sorrento’s or the Cafe Promenade will generally be your best options. 
• If you’re lucky, you might catch a happy hour at Boleros. While there’s no set schedule, you may occasionally see a two-for-one promo for margaritas or other beverages at Boleros, so keep an eye out. 

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Which itinerary to go for?

Visiting the neighbours?

If you’re looking to get over to New Zealand, Anthem of the Seas has plenty of options available. However, the sailings can get pricey.

The good news is that there is still a sailing to New Zealand that starts for about $240 a day, a good $50-60 cheaper per day than the other options.

This 10-night New Zealand cruise leaves on December 1, 2025, and you’ll get to visit five-ports in New Zealand through the sailings.

Looking for something snappy?

If you just want to get on the ship and take it for a spin, the way to do this is to go on a two-night cruise, which starts from just $589. Your two options will be on January 17 or February 13. 

If you’re looking to cruise one extra night, you should go for the South Coast Getaway option, which visits Eden during a three-night cruise and starts from $979. 

Make it down to Tassie

Anthem has one option for a cruise down to Hobart, leaving on March 8, the five-night cruise starts from $1429. Cruisers will get two days in Hobart, giving them the chance to enjoy an excursion one day and simply explore the city for another. 

Something sunny?

If you want to make it over to the South Pacific on Anthem of the Seas, there are plenty of options. These cruises are generally quite short, but if you want the most time away, you can opt for a nine-night South Pacific cruise, with dates on February 27, January 8 and March 13.

You’ll get to visit Noumea, Mystery Island and Port Vila, and then have a few extra days at sea to enjoy the ship.