The Anthem of the Seas is the perfect mix of restful relaxation and nonstop thrill. The Anthem is a 4,180 passenger, 16 deck cruise liner which sails around to the Bahamas, Europe, and Southern Caribbean. The Anthem sails on 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 11, and 12-night journeys. The Anthem solely departs from Cape Liberty, good news for families as any time of the year your vacation, the departure port will stay the same.

Entertainment and family time is the name of the game on board the Anthem. The climbing rock wall, indoor skydiving, and surf simulator will not only make for unforgettable family memories but are all also no extra fee. Similar to Disney cruises, Dreamworks character meetups, and lunches are also a family hit. Snap a pic with Po from Kung Fu Panda or say hi to the cast of the Madagascar franchise.

Don't worry water lovers, the Anthem has you covered as well. Deck 14 houses three pools (and two whirlpools) including a kids-only H2O Zone with a lazy river and wave pool. Parents should note that swim diapers are alright in the H2O Zone. At night, the pool hosts a Dive-In Movie Night where families can watch movies and live sporting events.

The real trick with most parents on cruises is finding programs where kids can have fun and learn at the same time. The ship's Adventure Ocean youth programs are the perfect opportunity for edutainment. Splitting kids up into three groups based on age (3-5, 6-8, and 9-11) the youth crew sets up themed events, activities, and classes for young passengers and allows parents some kids free relaxation. Teens have their own place in The Living Room, where they can chill with other teens (under crew supervision, don't worry).

At night, the Adventure Ocean program becomes a babysitting operation, costing $10 per child, per hour. In-cabin babysitting is $19 per child for up to THREE kids. For families with older kids, this may not be a problem, but for those with many little ones, group babysitting is the better option.

Of course, the Anthem caters to adult vacations as well. As with most Royal Caribbean ships, the Anthem does not short on theater entertainment. Check out original productions, Broadway at sea, and a spectacular cabaret. The Solarium offers parents a poolside space all their own for splash-free relaxing. The numerous lounges and onboard casinos offer amazing date nights and alone time.

Each ship has a variety of fun activities for the whole family, so be sure to check your ship before you cruise to view what's available. Whether you're 8 or 80, there's no reason not to have fun on your getaway at sea; before breaking off into everyone's activities, enjoy some time together by planning to meet for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

This is the time to make memories and nothing could be more memorable than setting up a shore excursion for the whole family. Plan your shore excursions ahead of time for the best chance at booking your top selections.

*Please note it is often cheaper to book two staterooms or two connecting cabins instead of one large stateroom suite - plus it gives you a second bathroom.*