Anthem of the Seas
Ship Facts
Gross Tonnage: 168,666
Length: 1,141 feet
Beam: 136 feet
Draft: 28 feet
Cruising Speed: 22 knots
Guests: 4,180
Crew: 1,500
Decks: 16
Registry: Bahamas
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Big Gay Crossing From Tokyo to Seattle
15 nights from Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan to Seattle, Washington
April 25 – May 09, 2025
Royal Caribbean Anthem of the Seas
 Experience an extraordinary Big Gay Crossing voyage as we journey from the vibrant shores of Tokyo, Japan, to the picturesque city of Seattle, Washington, while crossing the majestic International Dateline. Embark on an adventure that begins in Tokyo, where the blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity will leave you spellbound. Sail onwards to the serene landscapes of Aomori and the charming port city of Hakodate, each offering a unique glimpse into Japan's rich culture and natural beauty.
As we cruise back across the International Dateline, prepare to be amazed by the phenomenon of 'gaining' a day, a unique experience that adds an extra layer of excitement to your journey. Our final destination, Seattle, welcomes you with its stunning skyline, vibrant arts scene, and famous coffee culture. This incredible Big Gay Crossing journey promises not just a vacation, but a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with discovery, relaxation, and unforgettable memories.
Big Venues = Big Fun!
Anthem of the Seas offers an array of stunning venues designed to elevate your cruising experience. From the transformative Two70°, where panoramic views by day give way to spectacular aerial shows at night, to the Music Hall, a two-story live music venue that brings the best in live entertainment, there's a setting for every mood. Indulge in a cocktail at the sophisticated North Star Bar, or enjoy a night of laughter at the Royal Theater. For a more intimate setting, visit the Schooner Bar or Vintages wine bar. With so many options, every moment on board Anthem of the Seas is an opportunity for unforgettable memories.
Private Club Just For You
While it may be a mini Big Gay Cruise, we've reserved one night exclusively for us, featuring a pop-up drag show and a dance party that promises an evening of fabulous fun and unforgettable entertainment.
Nightly Rainbow Mixer
Join us every evening for the ships Rainbow Mixer, a vibrant LGBTQ+ cocktail gathering where you can connect, celebrate, and unwind in a colorful and inclusive atmosphere.!
Iconic Guides = Thrilling Adventures
Join the dynamic duo, Elliott with 2 Ts and Bentley Balenciaga, as they bring their charisma and unparalleled energy to Big Gay Cruise as our official cruise directors, ensuring every moment of your journey is filled with unforgettable excitement and entertainment
Big DJs = Big Parties
Experience the ultimate party atmosphere with our resident DJ, DJ Drew, as he masterfully curates an electrifying mix of classics and contemporary hits from the 60s to the present, all accompanied by vibrant music videos that will keep you dancing and visually engaged throughout the party.
Welcome to the Big Gay Crossing
oin us for an intimate journey across the Pacific on the Anthem of the Seas with Big Gay Crossing, the ultimate adventure for LGBTQ+ members and allies. From Tokyo to Seattle, experience a close-knit voyage with friends and our dynamic duo of cruise directors, Elliott with 2 Ts and Bentley Balenciaga.
Transpacific Adventure
Embark on a spectacular journey from Tokyo to Seattle aboard Anthem of the Seas, experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the Pacific Ocean while cruising in style.
Innovative Amenities
Enjoy state-of-the-art facilities, including the North Star observation capsule, RipCord by iFLY skydiving simulator, and SeaPlex indoor activity space, ensuring endless entertainment and relaxation.
Cultural Immersion
Delve into the rich tapestry of cultures as you sail from the vibrant cityscapes of Tokyo to the natural beauty and modern allure of Seattle, making this crossing a truly unique and memorable experience.
Your Ship - Anthem of the Seas
Fill your days with non-stop thrills onboard the adventure-packed Anthem of the Seas . Check off your bucket list for good onboard the award-winning, Anthem of the Seas. From 360-degree views in the North Star® observation capsule to simulated skydiving on RipCord® by iFLY® and the only bumper cars at sea, this memory maxing ship is your ticket to next-level experiences and once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
Game On. And On. And On.
Anthem of the Seas isn’t the same old song. It’s a rally cry for all the thrill seekers, gourmet globetrotters and adventure aficionados. With spaces that transform on the fly and some of the fleet’s best family friendly onboard activities, no other cruise ship packs in more cutting edge experiences in one single day.
Power Up Play Time
Every day onboard Anthem of the Seas is a whole new adventure. Yesterday’s roller skating at SeaPlex® is today’s bumper car showdown. And this morning’s awe-inspiring views from the North Star® lead to gravity-defying thrills on RipCord® by iFLY®. And that’s not even scratching the surface of all the unforgettable experiences this Quantum Class ship has to offer.
Festival of Flavors
With dining that takes you from Tuscany to Japan to Wonderland and everywhere in between, it isn’t a stretch to say the culinary scene on Anthem of the Seas rivals that of most metropolitan cities. Just make sure you save room for some decadent desserts at La Patisserie, like macarons and petits fours.
Don't Stop The Bar Hop
You’ll find plenty of buzzy bars onboard, so make sure to add a night out on deck to your itinerary. From cocktails shaken up by robots at the Bionic Bar® and celestial-inspired sips at North Star Bar, to drinks that are as dreamy as they are delicious at Wonderland Imaginative Cuisine.
Bring On the Encore
Incredible entertainment is a staple on every ship, and the shows onboard live up to the hype. Experience a cutting-edge blend of lights, music and tech at Spectra’s Cabaret, jam out at a virtual concert, or bang your head along to iconic Queen ballads at the Olivier Award-winning musical, We Will Rock You.
Adventure After Hours
You’ll quickly find the fun doesn’t fade with the daylight onboard Anthem of the Seas — in fact, that’s when the real party begins. Think neon-lit skydiving sessions on Ripcord by iFly®, immersive virtual vistas and imaginative cocktails at Two70® Bar, and savoring sips after soaking up 300-foot-high views at North Star Bar.
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Big Gay Crossing 2025
From Tokyo to Seattle
Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 25 Apr |
Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan |
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7 PM |
| 26 Apr |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 27 Apr |
Aomori, Japan |
8 AM |
7 PM |
| 28 Apr |
Hakodate, Japan |
8 AM |
7 PM |
| 29 Apr |
Akita, Japan |
7 AM |
5 PM |
| 30 Apr |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 01 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 02 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 03 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 04 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 05 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 05 May |
International Date Line |
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| 06 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 07 May |
Fun Day at Sea! |
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| 08 May |
Seattle, Washington |
11:59 AM |
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| 09 May |
Seattle, Washington |
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Day 1 - Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan
Yokohama is the central gateway to exploring Tokyo, a once-humble fishing village that is now one of the world's biggest, most densely populated cities. You'll find an eclectic mix of traditional shrines and soaring skyscrapers lining these neon-lit streets. Walk the Rainbow Bridge over Tokyo Bay alongside the Yurikamome Rail Line, a futuristic, operatorless train system. Then, see old Tokyo at the Imperial Palace, an Edo Castle surrounded by moats and gardens perfect for strolling. Cruise to Tokyo and head to iconic Sensoji Buddhist Temple and pass below the massive red paper lantern of the Thunder Gate. Then, unwind in Yoyogi Park, a literal forest in the heart of the city, complete with Zen gardens and a gingko tree forest.
Day 2 - Fun Day at Sea!
It’s time to raise the bar on adventure — with 360-degree views of the world from 300 feet above sea level in the North Star® observation capsule — winner of the Guinness World Record for tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship.
Day 3 - Aomori, Japan
Aomori is a relatively unexplored city located north of Honshu, Japan's main island. Visit the Hirosaki Castle during the Cherry Blossom Festival during the springtime. In summer, you can enjoy the spectacular Nebuta Matsuri festival or explore the deep green virgin beech forests. Fall is great for hiking along the Oirase Gorge river or heading to Aoni Onsen, a remote hot spring resort lit only by gas lanterns. If you cruise to Aomori during the winter, you can admire the snow-covered trees, try skiing or snowboarding, or visit one of the city's museums. End your visit to Aomori, Japan with some delicious seafood and local sake.
Day 4 - Hakodate, Japan
Hakodate overflows with historic architecture and steamy hot springs . Located along Hokkaido's southwestern tip, it's the perfect spot to begin exploring this island's unique history and culture during your vacation. Cruise to Hakodate and start your day at the morning Hakodate-Asaichi, or Morning Market, and tuck into a hearty kaisendon, a bowl of ultra-fresh sashimi fish over steamed rice. Then, relax with a soak in the Yunokawa hot springs on Hakodate's outskirts, or check out Goryokaku Fort — the nearby tower lets you take in a bird's-eye view of the star-shaped design surrounded by a moat. And don't leave without taking in the million-dollar views of the city from atop Mt. Hakodate.
Day 5 - Akita, Japan
Akita City is a bustling port in northern Japan where good food and good drinks are essential for weathering the long winters and over 12 feet of snow a year. Akita is the capital of Akita Prefecture, which is renowned for Akita dogs, high-quality rice and sake, and lively folk festivals. Revelers in traditional attire often greet cruise ships by balancing lantern-laden bamboo poles, which are part of the summer Kanto Festival. Look out for people dressed up as namahage ogres, too. You can explore this rich culture in the city's parks, historic buildings and cultural attractions.
Day 6 - 11 - Fun Day at Sea!
A day at sea gives you the opportunity to recharge before docking at your next port. Enjoy the many amenities your ship has to offer by pampering yourself with a relaxing spa day, catching an entertaining show with talented performers, or savoring an evening of fine dining at one of our many restaurants. The Perfect Storm waterslides take excitement off the charts. A luxurious sanctuary offering signature treatments, medi-spa services, and a full-service salon to make you glow from the inside out.
Day 12 - International Date Line
Cross “time travel” off your bucket list when you embark on a transpacific cruise which takes you across the famous International Date Line (IDL). This imaginary marker runs between the North and South Poles and is located in the center of the Bering Sea. When you travel east across it, you’ll “travel” backward in time by 24 hours. When you’re traveling west, crossing the International Date Line means you’ll set your clock exactly 24 hours ahead.
Day 13 - 14 - Fun Day at Sea!
Stick to your fitness goals by heading to the gym or hitting the mat for a mindful yoga session. Peruse a variety of shops to discover fashionable outfits, accessories, and jewelry. With endless attractions and activities, your sea day experience will be one for the books.
Day 15 - 16 - Seattle, Washington
Seattle is a young city, but it's short history is part of the landscape and charm. Cruise to Seattle and check out the Hiram Chittenden Locks in the Ballard neighborhood — this impressive feat of engineering passed its first ship through in 1916, and today, it's one of the busiest lock systems in the U.S. Then, stroll through the nearby Carl S. English Jr. Botanical Gardens, an English-style landscape garden with over 1,500 varieties of plants. Or head to Gas Works Park, on the grounds of the former Seattle Gas Light Company: This former business is now a prime vantage point to view the Seattle skyline. And don't miss the famous Space Needle: From the top, you can take in clear views of the bay, the Cascade Mountains and Mount Rainier.
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