First European Cruise Experience on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas

I recently embarked on my first European cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas, and let me tell you, it was an incredible experience. From flying business class to Europe to exploring the breathtaking Norwegian fjords, there were definitely some things that stood out during my time on this cruise. And while there were a few aspects that I didn’t particularly enjoy, overall, it was a great adventure. So, if you’re considering a European cruise or simply curious about what my experience was like, keep on reading!

One thing that I absolutely loved about this cruise was flying business class. Yes, it was an extra cost, but let me tell you, the comfort and the ability to combat jet lag made it totally worth it. I was able to arrive in Europe well-rested and ready to explore the wonders that awaited me. Another highlight was the Norwegian fjords. The scenery was even more breathtaking in person than in any photo or video. However, there were a couple of things that I didn’t enjoy as much. The limited food options and high prices in the small towns of Norway were a bit disappointing, and I found the Royal Caribbean Key Program to be underwhelming. But, overall, my first European cruise was a fantastic experience that opened my eyes to the world of cruising, and I definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a memorable vacation.

The European Cruise Experience

Hey there! So, you’re thinking about going on a European cruise? That’s awesome! I recently went on my first European cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas to Norway, and let me tell you, it was a truly incredible experience. There were a few things that really stood out to me during my time on the cruise, both positive and negative. Today, I want to share my thoughts on each aspect of the journey with you. So, let’s dive in and explore the highlights and some areas where improvement could be made.

Flying Business Class to Europe

Let’s start with something that made a huge difference in my overall travel experience – flying business class to Europe. It may not come as a surprise, but flying business class instead of economy made a world of difference in terms of comfort and preparing myself for the trip. Yes, it does come with a higher cost, but let me tell you, it was worth every penny. I flew business class from the United States to Europe and back, and the level of comfort was outstanding. It allowed me to arrive well-rested and prepared for the adventures that awaited me on the cruise.

The Rib Boat Excursion

Now, let’s move on to an excursion that didn’t quite live up to my expectations – the rib boat excursion in Garmanger. While it promised breathtaking views of the Seven Sisters waterfall and the fjords, it turned out to be a bit redundant. You see, during our sail into Garmanger, we had already witnessed the stunning Seven Sisters waterfall and the fjords from the ship. And guess what? On our way out of Garmanger, we got to see them once again. So, the rib boat excursion felt a little unnecessary, as we were basically seeing the same sights we had already experienced on the ship. While it was still a cool experience, I would have preferred something different that would have allowed me to explore new vantage points.

The Norwegian Fjords

Speaking of breathtaking views, let’s talk about the Norwegian fjords. Now, I had seen countless photos and videos of these majestic landscapes before my cruise, but let me tell you, experiencing them firsthand was an entirely different level of beauty. No picture or video can truly capture the awe-inspiring scenery that the Norwegian fjords offer. The towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene blue waters create a landscape that is truly unforgettable. Trust me, you’ll be left speechless when you witness the fjords in person.

Food Options in Norway

Now, let’s shift our focus to something that was a bit disappointing – the food options in Norway. In the small towns we visited, I found that there were limited choices when it came to dining out. While I understand that these towns may not have as many options as larger cities, it was still a bit of a letdown. Additionally, the prices for food in Norway were quite high, which further added to the disappointment. I was hoping to indulge in some delicious Norwegian cuisine, but unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. If you’re a foodie, I would recommend doing some research and exploring different dining options in larger cities or even onboard the cruise ship.

Embarkation Process in Southampton

Now, let’s talk about the embarkation process in Southampton. I have to say, it was one of the smoothest embarkation processes I’ve ever experienced. The staff at Southampton were incredibly efficient and knowledgeable, making the process quick and hassle-free. It’s always a relief when the start of your cruise goes smoothly, and that’s exactly what happened here. Thanks to the efficient embarkation process, I was able to start my European adventure on the right foot.

Booking a Balcony Cabin

If you’re considering booking a cabin for your European cruise, I highly recommend opting for a balcony cabin. The advantages of having a balcony are twofold. Firstly, you’ll have stunning views right from your room. Imagine waking up to sweeping vistas of the Norwegian fjords or enjoying a sunset over the Mediterranean Sea. It truly enhances the overall experience of the cruise. Secondly, having a balcony is especially convenient in colder weather. You can still enjoy the breathtaking views from the warmth and comfort of your own private space. So, if you’re looking to make the most of your European cruise, I would highly recommend booking a balcony cabin.

Underpacking for the Cruise

Now, let’s discuss a mistake I made during my European cruise – underpacking. As someone who likes to travel light, I thought I had everything figured out. However, I quickly realized that I had made a grave error. I ended up running out of clothes halfway through the cruise and had no space to bring back any souvenirs. It was a valuable lesson learned for me. So, my recommendation to future cruisers would be to overpack, but within reasonable limits. Ensure that you have enough clothes for the duration of the cruise and leave some room for souvenirs or any unexpected purchases. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.

Recommendations for Future Cruisers

Based on my experience, I have a few recommendations for future cruisers to make the most of their European cruise. Firstly, I would suggest overpacking, but within reasonable limits. It’s always better to have more options than not enough, especially when it comes to clothing. Additionally, be prepared for unexpected expenses. Whether it’s higher food prices or unexpected activities, having some extra money set aside will ensure that you can fully enjoy everything your cruise has to offer. Lastly, make the most of the experience. Take in the breathtaking scenery, try new activities, and immerse yourself in the culture of each destination. After all, a European cruise is an adventure of a lifetime, so make every moment count!

Conclusion

In conclusion, my first European cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas was an overall positive experience. From the comfort of flying business class to the mesmerizing beauty of the Norwegian fjords, there were many highlights that made the trip unforgettable. However, there were also a few aspects that could be improved, such as the limited food options in small towns and the redundant rib boat excursion. But hey, every journey teaches us valuable lessons, and I certainly learned a lot for my future travels. So, if you’re considering a European cruise, take these factors into account and make the most of your adventure. Bon voyage!