GAYA Travellers’ Luxurious Voyage from Singapore to Penang with the Anthem of the Seas
Our Adventure Began in Singapore
The GAYA Traveller team members were recently invited to experience a three-night luxurious cruise holiday by Royal Caribbean Cruises. Our journey started in the vibrant city of Singapore, where we boarded the stunning Anthem of the Seas cruise ship at Marina Bay Cruise Centre. We were awestruck by its grandeur and elegance when we set foot on the ship. With its array of activities and dining options, we knew we were in for a sensational adventure.
Tip 1: Before you board the ship, take some time to visit Marina Bay Sands and Gardens by the Bay, which are just a short drive away. It’s a fantastic way to kickstart your trip.
Tip 2: If you are driving in like we did, you can park your car at Marina Bay Cruise Centre. Come at least an hour earlier because parking spots are limited. Don’t forget to get the Drivecruise Ticket once you have secured a parking spot. A three-day ticket costs S$60.
Exploring the Anthem of the Seas
We stayed in a stateroom with a balcony that offered the perfect blend of comfort and luxury. Waking up to the sight of the vast ocean and enjoying a cup of coffee on our private balcony was pure bliss. The room was spacious, beautifully appointed, and provided all the amenities we needed for a comfortable stay.
Life on board was nothing short of spectacular. There are plenty of activities available to suit your preferences. For a bit of excitement and adrenaline rush, try the RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator. At the same time, catching waves on the FlowRider surf simulator is so much fun. When we wanted to unwind, the adults-only Solarium became our haven for much-needed relaxation. Out of all the venues, SeaPlex might be the most venue you frequent. It is the largest indoor activity space at sea with bumper cars, roller skating, and sports courts.
We caught Broadway-style shows at the Royal Theatre. The performances were outstanding, perfect to wind down after a day full of activities. We were thrilled to see “We Will Rock You,” a musical that brought the house down with its incredible energy and iconic Queen songs. Another highlight was “Tap Factory,” an exhilarating show that combined dance, percussion, and acrobatics in a way that left us both mesmerised.
One of the most unforgettable experiences on the Anthem of the Seas was the North Star. This observation capsule took us 300 feet above sea level, offering 360-degree panoramic views of the ocean and the ship. It felt like we were floating above the world, and the breathtaking scenery was something we’ll never forget.
Whether it was live music at the Music Hall, enjoying a movie under the stars at the outdoor screen, or taking a dip in one of the many pools and hot tubs, every moment on the Anthem of the Seas felt magical.
To remain connected, don’t forget to subscribe to VOOM Wi-Fi, the ship’s high-speed internet.
Dining Delights on the Anthem of the Seas
Dining on the Anthem of the Seas is a culinary adventure, and we had truly memorable experiences. You can eat for free in the Main Dining Room, Windjammer Marketplace Buffet, Cafe @ Two70, Cafe Promenade, SeaPlex Doghouse, Sorrento’s Pizza, Solarium Bistro, Soft Serve Ice Cream Stand, and Coastal Kitchen (available for Suite guests only), including Room Service (Continental breakfast is free, at other times there is a $7.95 delivery fee). Being Muslims, we came onboard ready to become a pescatarian throughout our stay, but we were pleasantly surprised to find that some buffet items at Windjammer Marketplace are indicated as ‘Halal Friendly’.
For a more relaxing and special dining experience, we headed to three specialty restaurants. The first one named Wonderland, was an immersive dining experience like stepping into a whimsical fairy tale, which takes inspiration from Alice in Wonderland. Each dish was a piece of art, and the flavours were equally enchanting. The servers were incredibly helpful in selecting menu items suitable for Muslims, ensuring that our dining experience was both delightful and worry-free.
Secondly, we tried out Izumi. For lovers of Japanese cuisine like us, Izumi was a real treat because the restaurant serves the freshest sushi and sashimi, besides other delectable dishes. The servers went above and beyond to accommodate our dietary preferences, highlighting the halal options available.
Finally, we feted at Jamie’s Italian, a restaurant that has warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for unwinding. The servers were attentive and knowledgeable, guiding us through the menu to choose dishes that were suitable for Muslims. The portions were huge, but you’re more than welcome to bring leftovers to your room. Seeing guests carrying plates back to their rooms is a common sight, as they do not provide disposable packaging for takeaways.
Tip: Subscribe to the ship’s Drinks Package. For those who enjoy a variety of beverages, the Anthem of the Seas offers a drinks package that includes a selection of cocktails, wines, beers, and non-alcoholic drinks. This package is a great way to enjoy your favourite drinks without worrying about additional costs.
A Few Hours in Penang
We were given a few options of shore excursions to choose from once we arrived in Penang, and we chose the Straits and Oriental Museum & Food Paradise. The tour bus brought us to the museum, several souvenir shops, and a food court. We must applaud the guides at the museum for their engaging and fascinating narration of the exhibits that connect Penang’s history to the Straits of Malacca.
Of course, you also have the option to explore Penang on your own at your own pace! Getting in and out of the ship was also a breeze.
What’s Included in the Fees
One of the best things about cruising on the Anthem of the Seas is that so much is included in the fees. Here’s what you can expect:
- Accommodations: A comfortable stateroom with all the amenities you need.
- Meals: Dining at several onboard venues, including the Windjammer Marketplace buffet, main dining room, and selected specialty restaurants. Halal options are available to cater to diverse dietary needs.
- Entertainment: Access to Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy acts, and more.
- Activities: Use of the ship’s pools, fitness centre, sports courts, and attractions like bumper cars and more at SeaPlex, Zip Line, Ultimate Abyss, Rock Climbing, and even dancing classes!
- Kids’ Programmes: Supervised activities and clubs for children and teens.
- Basic Services: Room service, daily housekeeping, and concierge assistance.
Additional charges apply for specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, certain beverages as well as activities like the FlowRider, RipCord by iFLY, and North Star.
Tip: Don’t forget to download Royal Caribbean International App on your mobile phones to make the most of your time onboard. You can plan and make bookings for activities using the app.
Why Families Love Cruises
Throughout our trip, we noticed that cruise holidays are incredibly popular with families, especially among three-generation families, and it’s easy to see why:
- All-Inclusive Convenience: Everything is taken care of, from accommodations to dining and entertainment. It’s a hassle-free way to travel.
- Activities for All Ages: The ship offers something for everyone. Kids’ clubs, teen lounges, adult retreats, and family-friendly shows ensure there’s never a dull moment.
- Quality Family Time: Cruises provide the perfect opportunity for families to bond while also offering individual activities. Shared experiences create lasting memories.
- Safe Environment: Parents can relax knowing their children are in a safe and supervised setting. The kids’ clubs are fantastic, with attentive staff to keep the little ones entertained.
- Educational Fun: Many cruises offer educational programmes and cultural excursions, giving guests young and old the chance to learn while they explore new destinations.
Conclusion
Our voyage on the Anthem of the Seas from Singapore to Penang was the perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned cruise aficionado or a first-timer, this journey promises memories that last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, set sail, and let the Anthem of the Seas take you on a spectacular adventure from Singapore to Penang… or any other fantastic destinations for that matter!
For more information on Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas cruises from Singapore, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.
Gaya Travel Magazine team members express our heartfelt gratitude to Royal Caribbean Cruises for making the Gaya Travellers’ cruising experience possible and smooth-sailing.
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