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Iona cabins and suites

Iona staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Iona cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by P&O UK (P&O Cruises) en-suite amenities and services.

The Iona cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

2-Room Sky Suite

B4 category Suite (number 10736 / on Deck 10) is handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

Iona 2-Room Sky Suite photo

Family Seaview Suite

Conservatory mini suite, layout (floor plan).

Iona Conservatory Mini Suite photo

Deluxe Balcony Cabin

EA category Deluxe Balcony cabins numbers 10423-10427-10433-10437 / all on Deck 10) are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

Iona Deluxe Balcony Cabin photo

Standard Balcony Cabin

The following numbers Standard Balcony cabins are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

  • category GC (8330-8332, 15301-15302-15303-15304-15305-15306-15307-15308)
  • category GA (11514-11516-11518-11520-12514-12516-12518-12520)
  • category GB (12622-12623-12624-12625-12626-12627-12628-12629)

Iona Standard Balcony Cabin photo

Smaller Balcony Cabin

Iona Smaller Balcony Cabin photo

Seaview Cabin

LB category Seaview cabins numbers 4522-4528-4534-4538 / all on Deck 4) are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

Iona Seaview Cabin photo

Larger Inside Cabin

Iona Larger Inside Cabin photo

Standard Inside Cabin

The following numbers Standard Interior cabins are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

  • category PC (8327-8331-9326-9327-9330-9331-15322-15323-15326-15327-16326-16327-16330-16331)
  • category PF (9222-9223-9228-9229)
  • category PB (10327-10331)

Iona Standard Inside Cabin photo

Studio Single Cabin

Iona Studio Single Cabin photo

Iona cabins review

PO Iona cruise ship cabins are 4 main types (suite, balcony, sea view/oceanview/outside, interior, single), divided into 12 categories and 32 grades. The liner has a total of 2614 passenger staterooms and max capacity 6264 (5204 lower berths).

Staterooms include 121 Suites, 1496 Balcony, 174 Oceanviews/Seaviews, 819 Interior cabins. P&O Iona has a total of 32 studios (single-occupancy cabins) and 55 wheelchair-accessible/handicap cabins (for disabled passengers). Most cabins are sized between 135-170 ft2 (13-16 m2).

Excepting the Suites, all cabin balconies are very small - sized just 20 ft2 (2 m2). Cabin balconies in the forward section can be overlooked by the Navigation Bridge (Wheelhouse).

The boat has 8 laundrettes (self-service laundry rooms for passengers) located midship on decks 4-5-9-10-11-12-14-15.

2-Room Sky Suites are located either aft and forward and designed as boutique-hotel rooms. They consist of interconnecting rooms whose doors can be fully opened to create a larger lounge space. The furniture is contemporary and comfort and includes a sofa, ottoman chairs, lounge chairs, soft furnishings and accessories (cushions, premium twill throws, LED lighting/ceiling and wall-mounted lamps). These Suites (categories B4-B5-B6) have spacious bathrooms with double sink vanities, black marble tops, white marble walls and floors, whirlpool bathtubs. All suites feature separate lounge-bedroom areas, designated dressing areas, large step-out balconies and exclusive services (personal Butler, in-cabin dining, priority services).

Conservatory Mini-Suite is a new cabin concept featuring a separate, conservatory-style room designed as cabin extension. Located between the cabin and the balcony, this separate room is furnished with an L-shaped sofa to create a distinctive lounge space. Via sliding glass-doors, this "small room" can be closed off for more privacy (parties, celebrations, conversations). Via other glass-doors (bi-folds), the room can be opened out fully onto the cabin's step-out balcony, providing a cool and shaded indoor space for relaxation.

Balcony staterooms are in 3 main categories (Deluxe, Standard, Smaller) plus Single Balcony. Many are with interconnecting doors, making them a perfect choice for families and small groups. Balcony cabins also allow outdoor dining via cruise ship's Room Service menu.

For larger families and groups, balcony cabins are fitted with built-in bunks (fold-out, pull-down beds). On decks 10-11-12-14-15 there are forward-facing cabins with larger (steel-fronted) balconies overlooking the ship's bow. Due to their location and larger-sized verandas, these staterooms (categories EE-Deluxe, GE-Standard) are among the premium cabin grades. Single Balcony cabins (category QZ) are located aft on decks 9-11-14. They are smaller-sized double cabins but can be booked without a single supplement.

P&O UK's Iona liner has interior staterooms on all cabin decks. Single Inside cabins (category SZ) are standard-sized double cabins but can be booked by solo travelling passengers without paying a single supplement.

All staterooms have Queen-size beds (convertible to two twins/single beds), bedside cabinets, wall-mounted reading lamps, seating area (sofabed/2-seater couch with a modern dining-coffee table), mirrored vanity table/writing desk with chair, mirrored wardrobe (large closet with sliding doors, hangers, drawers, electronic safe box), direct-dial phone, smart HDTV (infotainment system, Internet, on-demand-movies, Room Service ordering, booking/reservations), hairdryer, round-shaped (porthole-like) mirrors for decoration, en suite bathroom (WC-toilet, single-sink vanity, shower).

All pull-down bunk beds are accessible via a ladder. All cabin balconies are furnished with 2 deck chairs and a small table. All cabin bathrooms are with shower-WC configurations. 2-Room Suites (categories B4, B5, B6) additionally have bathtubs. All Suites receive bathrobes and slippers.

Iona cabin and suite plans are property of P&O UK (P&O Cruises) . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

Cruise Tips For Families & Single Cruisers

Things to Know Before You Cruise

P&O Iona: Your Guide To Choosing The Best Cabin!

As I stood on the deck of P&O Iona, the gentle sway of the ship beneath my feet and the vast expanse of the ocean before me filled me with a sense of freedom and adventure. But as I made my way towards my cabin, I realized that choosing the right one was crucial to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you choose the best cabin on P&O Iona, so that you too can experience the freedom and excitement of cruising without any worries.

With a wide range of cabin options available on P&O Iona, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious experience, there’s a cabin to suit every need.

In this guide, I’ll provide you with an overview of the different cabin options and sizes, along with tips on how to choose the perfect cabin for your needs. So, let’s get started and embark on a journey of discovery and freedom on board P&O Iona!

  • P&O Iona offers various cabin options including inside cabins, sea view cabins, balcony cabins, conservatory mini-suites, and suites.
  • Cabin grades on Iona are based on type and location, and sizes range from 101 to 530 sq. ft.
  • When choosing a cabin on Iona, personal preferences should be taken into consideration, and families should consider larger cabins such as sea view suites and conservatory mini-suites.
  • Promenade Deck cabins on Deck 8 may be unusual and should be avoided, and it’s recommended to compare prices and work with a travel agent to get the best deal.

Cabin Options and Sizes

I’m excited to learn about the various cabin options and sizes available on P&O Iona. There are several categories of cabins to choose from, including inside cabins, sea view cabins, balcony cabins, conservatory mini-suites, and suites.

These cabins are grouped together by cabin grades based on type and location, making it easier for passengers to compare their options.

Each cabin option has its own advantages, such as the affordable price of inside cabins for budget travelers, the compromise of sea view cabins between inside and balcony cabins, and the luxurious wraparound balconies of the suites.

The sizes of the cabins also vary, with sea view cabins being larger than both inside and balcony cabins. The conservatory mini-suites are unique to Iona and Arvia ships and come with an L-shaped sofa and a conservatory area, while the suites offer a whole host of perks.

By comparing the cabin sizes and facilities, passengers can choose the best option that fits their budget and preferences.

tips for Choosing a Cabin

Who needs a good cabin anyway? Just book the first one you see and hope for the best! Well, that’s not the best way to approach your P&O Iona cruise. Choosing the right cabin can make all the difference in your overall experience. Here are some tips to help you choose the best cabin for your needs, taking into consideration your location preferences and budget considerations.

First, consider your location preferences. Do you want to be close to the action, or would you prefer a quiet cabin away from the crowds? Are you prone to seasickness and would prefer a cabin in the middle of the ship? Do you want a cabin with a view or with a balcony? Knowing your location preferences can help narrow down your options. Second, consider your budget. While it may be tempting to splurge on a suite, there are plenty of other cabin options that offer great value for your money. Don’t forget to factor in any additional costs, such as gratuities or excursions. By taking into consideration your location preferences and budget considerations, you can choose the best cabin for your needs and make the most out of your P&O Iona cruise.

Inside Cabins

When considering my budget and preferences for a quiet cabin, I may want to look into the inside cabin options available on the ship. While they may not have the scenic views provided by sea view or balcony cabins, inside cabins have their advantages.

First and foremost, they’re the cheapest option available for budget travelers. Additionally, since they don’t have windows, they offer a darker and quieter environment, perfect for those who prefer to sleep in or have a peaceful night’s rest.

When looking for the best inside cabins for budget travelers, it’s important to consider size and location. Inside cabins on Iona range from 101 to 190 square feet, so it’s best to choose a larger cabin if you’re planning to spend a lot of time in your room.

Location is also crucial, as cabins near elevators or high-traffic areas may be noisy. It’s best to choose a cabin in a quieter part of the ship, away from any potential sources of noise.

Overall, inside cabins are a great option for those looking to save money and have a peaceful night’s sleep.

Sea View Cabins

Looking for a cabin with a view but on a budget? The sea view cabins on the P&O Iona ship may be a good option for me. These cabins offer a compromise between the cheaper inside cabins and the pricier balcony rooms.

As an ocean lover, the benefits of a sea view cabin are hard to resist. I can wake up to the sound of the waves and enjoy the picturesque view of the ocean right from my cabin window. Plus, these cabins are generally larger than the inside cabins, providing more space to move around and relax.

For budget-conscious travelers, it’s important to note that sea view cabins are more affordable than the balcony cabins. Although balcony cabins offer a private outdoor space, the added cost may not be necessary for those who spend most of their time exploring the ship and its destinations.

With a sea view cabin, I can still enjoy the stunning views of the ocean while saving some money. Overall, the sea view cabins on the P&O Iona ship are an excellent choice for those who want a view of the ocean without breaking the bank.

Balcony Cabins

Wow, having a private balcony on a cruise ship is like having my own piece of paradise in the middle of the ocean. I can enjoy the fresh sea breeze and soak up the sun on my own terms.

But not all balcony cabins are created equal. The best balcony views on the P&O Iona are on the higher decks, and the larger balconies on the curved part of the ship offer better views than those on the straight sections.

Aside from the stunning views, balcony cabin perks on the Iona include patio-style doors leading to the private balcony, a seating area with a sofa, and a mini-fridge. The deluxe balcony cabins even come with a bathtub and a separate shower.

It’s worth noting that the balcony cabins on the Iona are more expensive than the sea view and inside cabins, but the added luxury and breathtaking views make it worth the investment for those who want a truly unforgettable cruise experience.

Conservatory Mini-Suites

I really like the idea of having a conservatory mini-suite on my next cruise, with its own comfortable L-shaped sofa and a private balcony to soak up the stunning views.

These mini-suites are exclusive to the Iona and Arvia ships and are a perfect option for those who want a little extra space without paying for a full suite.

With approximately 274 sq. ft. in size, these mini-suites can sleep up to four passengers comfortably, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.

One of the main benefits of booking a conservatory mini-suite is the conservatory area, which provides a cozy place to relax and take in the views.

The L-shaped sofa is perfect for lounging, reading or even taking a nap. The private balcony is also a great feature, as it allows for outdoor relaxation without having to leave your cabin.

Overall, these mini-suites offer a great balance of comfort, space, and affordability, making them an excellent choice for any cruiser looking for a little something extra.

When considering accommodations on a cruise ship, it’s worth exploring the options for suites, which offer a range of sizes and perks depending on your budget and preferences.

Suites on the P&O Iona come in different sizes, ranging from 434 to 530 sq. ft., and are equipped with a variety of amenities. Here are some things to consider when choosing a suite on the P&O Iona:

Suite amenities: Suites on the P&O Iona offer additional space and amenities, such as a separate living area, larger balcony, and priority embarkation and disembarkation. Suites also come with added perks, such as butler service, complimentary laundry and pressing, and access to exclusive dining venues and lounges.

Suite pricing comparison: When comparing suite pricing on the P&O Iona, it’s important to consider the size of the suite, location on the ship, and included amenities. Suites with larger balconies or prime locations on the ship may come with a higher price tag, but can also provide a more luxurious and comfortable experience. It’s important to weigh the benefits and costs to determine the best suite option for your budget and preferences.

Miscellaneous Information

Interestingly, on the P&O Iona ship, children under 16 years old are required to share a cabin with an adult. This is important for families to keep in mind when choosing the best cabin option for their vacation.

However, P&O Iona does offer various cabin amenities and accessibility features to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all passengers. For example, the ship has several adapted cabins suitable for wheelchair users, making it easy for those with mobility issues to move around the ship and enjoy all of its amenities. Additionally, the cabins are designed to be spacious and comfortable, with various options available to suit different budgets and preferences.

Overall, P&O Iona is committed to providing a memorable and accessible vacation experience for all passengers.

What is the maximum occupancy for a cabin on P&O Iona?

The max occupancy for a cabin on P&O Iona varies depending on the cabin type. Some cabins can accommodate up to four passengers, while others can only accommodate two. Cabin amenities vary, but all cabins are designed for comfort and convenience.

Are there any cabins on P&O Iona that are specifically designated as pet-friendly?

Coincidentally, I was just looking for pet-friendly cabins on P&O Iona, but unfortunately, there aren’t any specific accommodations for travelers with pets. However, the ship has a variety of other options for all budget and preference needs.

Are there any cabins on P&O Iona that offer a bathtub instead of just a shower?

Looking for a bathtub option on P&O Iona? Unfortunately, I couldn’t find any specific cabins with bathtubs. However, the ship does offer various room amenities such as showers and accessibility features based on cabin size and layout.

What is the average cost difference between an inside cabin and a balcony cabin on P&O Iona?

Wow, the cost difference between an inside cabin and a balcony cabin on P&O Iona is astronomical! However, the benefits of a balcony, like fresh sea air and stunning views, make it worth the extra expense. Inside vs Balcony: Cost Comparison, Benefits of Balcony.

Are there any cabins on P&O Iona that are located near noisy areas of the ship, such as the engine room or nightclubs?

Midship cabins are generally the quietest on the ship, away from noisy areas. For families, consider larger inside cabins or sea view cabins. Balcony cabins may have larger balconies due to the ship’s design.

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P&o iona balcony cabin review (deck five).

Planning a cruise on P&O Iona? Discover what a balcony cabin on deck five is like is so you can make an informed choice about what cabin to book.

Booking a cruise ship cabin isn’t always as easy as you think it might be. The choice can be a more than a little overwhelming.

Not all balconies are equal as I found out on a cruise on Iona. So, if you are considering waht to book, read on for my experience of staying in a deck five balcony cabin and what you can expect if you chose this style of cabin.

My Iona Balcony Cabin Review

I took a cruise around the Norwegian Fjords on P&O Cruises Iona and decided to splash out on a balcony cabin as it is such a scenic destination.

Although this was the first cruise I booked on Iona it was actually my second time on the ship after taking advantage of a last-minute solo deal in the spring. 

I had an inside cabin on that trip, which I loved, but I was glad I had booked a balcony for the cruise to Norway . 

It’s all about the views in the Norwegian Fjords right?

If you are anything like me when you think of a cruise ship balcony cabin you generally think of the glass-fronted ones that look out to sea. Like the image below which was taken from a balcony cabin on deck 12.

image for view from cruise ship balcony of narrow channel of sea and mountainside with small waterfalls running down side

Well, that’s what I thought I was paying for. It turned out not to be quite what I was expecting as I was allocated a cabin on the infamous deck eight.

It was my fault I guess, but in my defence I booked it way back in 2019 after seeing a good deal for solo occupancy and before Iona was even in service. In the spring of 2021, when it became clear there would be no Norwegian fjords season , I moved it to 2022.

However, at this time I was in the middle of six months chemotherapy so not really paying as much attention as I should have been. It was also my first cruise booking so I had no idea about the different types of balcony cabins or promenade decks.

But it kind of worked out ok in the end as the wonderful onboard team kindly moved me to deck five. While that cabin again wasn’t quite what you picture when you think of a cruise ship balcony it was fine for me. I actually loved it in the end.

So, I thought I’d write an Iona balcony cabin review so you know what to expect if choose this cabin style or maybe to reassure you if you have been allocated one of these cabins on deck five. 

Location of Iona’s balcony cabins

Before I get into what a balcony cabin on deck five is like, here is a quick word about balcony cabins in general on Iona.

Iona has 2,164 cabins in total. 1,366 of them are balcony cabins with 120 of those deluxe balcony cabins. There are also 95 conservatory mini-suites and 24 suites which have balconies too.

Standard balcony cabins with a sofa are located on decks 5,9,10,11,12,14,15 & 17. They are also located on the promenade deck (8) and the lido deck (16)

Deluxe balcony cabins are located on decks 9,10,11,12,14 & 15. They are also some on the promenade deck (8)

Smaller balcony cabins are located on decks 9,10,11,12,14,15 & 17. There are also two of these cabins located on the promenade deck (8)

In addition, there are 22 solo cabins onboard and some of those have balconies too.

You can find out more about where cabins are located on the Iona deck plan .

As you can see there is plenty of choice when it comes to balcony cabins on Iona. So, it is important to do a bit of research before booking so you ensure you have the perfect cabin for you.

Particularly for first time cruisers, as it can be quite confusing when you are not used to all the different options available. As I found out…

Related post | Pick the perfect cabin for your cruise with my guide to cabins to avoid on Iona .

Iona Deck Five Balcony Cabins

After a bit of musical cabins, my home for the week while cruising around the Norwegian Fjords was cabin 5454. This was a balcony cabin on deck five and a nice easy number to remember.

Low down, these cabins are cut out of the hull of ship as you can see in the photo below.

Image looking up at outside of cruise ship to the balcony cabins in the hull

The location was fabulous, being on deck five gives you easy access to all the restaurants and bars on decks six to eight. I think it too me less than five minutes to get to most places on those decks. You can also get to the Headlines theatre and spa quickly.

The gym (if you are that way inclined) is at the end of deck five so there is no excuse to skip gym day either. 

For ease of access to many of the facilities on board, deck five has a shout at being the best deck on Iona.

Cabin 5454 was a short walk from the midship lifts and stairs. This provided easy access to the higher decks or you could be up in the Vista cafe and Grand Atrium in just a few minutes by taking the stairs.

It was also a few cabins down the corridor from the laundrette. Trying to find your cabin down those long corridors can be a challenge sometimes. It is easy to get lost. Especially if you are new to Iona, so it was nice to have a marker to look out for in relation to the cabin.  

The location was pretty quiet too. The odd person was a little noisy walking down the corridor every now and then but nothing too bad. There was no noise that I could hear from the laundrette either. 

Cabin layout

The cabin was a great size and comes with pretty much everything you need.

image of cruise ship cabin with queen bed, sofa, desk and window and door out to balcony

Walking into the cabin the bathroom is to the right. 

The bathroom is a good size too and well designed. It has plenty of storage space. There are two shelves on the wall next to the sink and more shelving underneath and to the side of the sink.

There is hand soap on the wall by the sink and shower gel and shampoo on the wall in the show cubicle. All the toiletries are provided by The White Company and smell amazing. 

If you plan to do any hand washing there is a small washing line in the shower. 

image looking into bathroom with shower cubicle, toilet and towels on rail

Once past the bathroom door, you are fully in the room with the wardrobe running along the wall to the right. 

The wardrobe is a good size with one full-length hanging space and one-half length. 

There is a shelf above the rail in the full-length wardrobe which is home to the lifejackets. These take up most of the shelf but there is a small space next to them that could be used for extra storage.

There are 20 hangers. I counted them on this trip after being asked a few times after my last cabin review. However, you can always ask for more should you need them.

Between the two hanging areas, there is a section with six deep shelves. Ideal for placing packing cubes and clothing like hoodies or jumpers.

image of open wardrobe in cruise ship cabin with shelf holding three lifejackets and rail with hangers underneath

There was plenty of storage space in the wardrobe. However, I was travelling solo so that is easy for me to say. If you are in a pair or there is a few of you sharing, it might be worth bringing along a few more hangers or making a note to ask the cabin steward for extra ones.

The super comfortable queen-size bed takes up half the room with a sofa bed and dressing table filling the space in the second half of the room. 

In this cabin, the sofa is next to the balcony and the bed is next to the wardrobe. This does mean it can be a tight squeeze to get to the wardrobe, there isn’t much room to manoeuvre around. 

When you open the wardrobe door, it comes right out and almost touches the bed.

Having this layout also means you can’t really use the full-length mirror unless you stand right on top of it. Not a disaster but it does make you wonder why they designed it like that. Surely someone must have noticed it was difficult to use the mirror?

I think it would have been much better to put the mirror on the wall. Or have all these cabins with the bed next to the balcony and the sofa next to the wardrobe.

image of wardrobe with open door almost touching side of bed in cruise ship cabin

To the left of the bed and next to the dressing table is a large TV. This can be moved to make the viewing angle more comfortable depending on whether you are on the sofa or bed. 

Underneath the TV there is a unit with some more storage in the form of two very narrow shelves. They are great for holding things like umbrellas or hair straighters.

On top of the unit are tea and coffee making facilities. There are plenty of tea bags (P&O is a British cruise line afterall) and a couple of biscuits that are replenished each day.

Tip: Take a little plastic cup or jug with you and you can bring fresh milk down from the Horzion buffet to keep in your fridge. It makes for a much nicer morning cuppa than using the little cartons of milk provided.

Deck Five Balconies

As I mentioned when I booked this trip, I booked a balcony as the cruise to the Norwegian Fjords is all about the views. 

I had visions of being able to sit on my balcony with a cup of tea (or prosecco!) while enjoying the views. 

Although I didn’t end up quite with the balcony I thought I would, it was fine for being able to sit and look out.

As the balconies are cut into the hull of ship , they are covered and sheltered from the elements. So you have some protection from any bad weather – always a possibility in the fjords – but not so good if you were looking forward to sunbathing in the Mediterranean.

Image looking up at outside of cruise ship to the balcony cabins in the hull

Low down on the ship and close to the water, they are great for looking out for sea life or just watching and listening to the waves.

image of view out from a sheltered balcony on cruise ship cabin. Two small ships out to see and part of dock in the view

The downside to this is that in the case of very bad weather or rough seas, a metal storm door will be closed across the balcony door. In effect turning your balcony cabin into a sea view cabin with just one large window.

Thankfully, that wasn’t needed on my trip but something to be aware of if booking one of these cabins.

The door out to the balcony is not the sliding patio door like the higher deck cabins but a rather heavy door that opens outwards. I didn’t find it too bad to open but sometimes it was a bit tough.

It would also be a bit difficult to keep the door open to enjoy some fresh air. You’d have to prop it open somehow. 

The balcony itself is very small. There is just about enough room for two chairs and a small table. So, not enough room to stretch out but it was perfect to sit with a cuppa and enjoy the scenery. 

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

Again, it might be easy for me to say that as I was travelling solo. However, you could comfortably get two people sitting out there. Three would be very much a squeeze.

One thing to note about these balconies is that you may not have much privacy with your neighbours. You can see into the next-door balcony via little gaps in the partition. I didn’t think it was a huge issue but it might be for some.

image of cruise ship balcony with two chairs looking out

One other thing to be aware of is that these balconies can get a little damp. I had great weather and calm seas for the cruise I was on but sometimes when sitting out I noticed it was a little wet in places.

While it may not have been the type of balcony cabin I had dreamed of, I was pretty happy with it. I really liked being that close to the water and it was lovely to sit out there and enjoy the view and sound of the waves.

I did speak to a couple of my cabin neighbours while waiting for the lifts throughout the week and some of them were a little bit disappointed. Again, it just wasn’t the balcony they were expecting when they booked it. 

So if you have your heart set on a balcony, make sure you do some research on the cabins on Iona beforehand. This way you will know exactly what you are booking or what you may be allocated depending on the grade you choose.

Amenities included in Iona’s balcony cabins

All of Iona’s cabins come fully equipped with everything you need.

  • Air conditioning
  • Complimentary toiletries (The White Company)
  • Safe (can hold a laptop, my 15″ MacBook fitted in fine)
  • Tea & Coffee making facilities (including biscuits!)
  • Two cans of water on arrival

The Last Word

I had a great week cruising the Norwegian Fjords on Iona, it was easily one of the best trips I have done.

Overall the cabin was very comfortable and one I would definitely consider booking in future. 

While it may not be one of the best balcony cabins on Iona, the disappointment wasn’t really a big deal in the end. Like most things, it’s what you make of it. Although it was a lesson learnt for being more careful with future bookings. 

If you prefer to spend your time exploring the ship an inside cabin may be a better (and certainly cheaper) option. 

I don’t think not having a balcony cabin would make this type of cruise any less enjoyable. There are plenty of spots around the ship to get a great view of the scenery. 

So, even on a cruise that is all about the views, you won’t miss out if you don’t have a balcony, you just need to make a bit more effort to get up on deck to enjoy the spectacular scenery.

However, if you would like a balcony, the ones on deck five are well worth considering.

You may also like…

  • Iona cabins to avoid
  • Cruising the Norwegian Fjords on P&O Cruises Iona
  • All you need to know dining on P&O’s Iona
  • P&O Iona inside cabin review

30 thoughts on “ P&O Iona balcony cabin review (deck five) ”

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A note on the full-length mirror you complain about. I’ve seen it said in a YouTube video that the mirrored door is on a 180 degree hinge, so you’re supposed to open it out fully and stand in the corridor space to use it properly.

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Hi, thanks for that tip. I will definitely try that when next on Iona. Thanks for sharing. Emma

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Hi Emma. Thanks for all this information as we are just about to do the same trip. All the best. Don

Hi Don, Thanks for your kind comment. Hope you enjoy your cruise. Emma

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Thanks for the very informative review. By coincidence, I’ve just booked a cruise for next month on Iona in the exact same cabin (5454).

This will I be our first ever cruise (it will be just me and my 11yo Son), and I was worried about sea sickness, so I was keen to book a balcony cabin near the middle of the ship and on a low deck.

Due to booking so late, deck 5 was the only deck with suitable balcony cabins still available in the middle section, so I went for this one, but I was a little concerned I’d made the wrong choice.

I’m so glad I found your review, as the cabin and balcony look fine, so it’s put my mind at ease. I also like the idea of being close to the water.

Many thanks for sharing this.

Hi Dave, thanks for the kind comments. Enjoy your cruise, it’s a great cabin. Emma

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We were on Iona 3weeks ago had a fabulous time ship was amazing as were the Norwegian fjords ,our cabin was lovley with wardrobe an a sofa definitely go again.

Hi, thanks for your comment. Glad you had a great time. Agree, the cabins are lovely. Emma

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Which deck were on please ? Thanks

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We went on the Iona in March Spain and Portugal this year this being our first cruise really didn’t know what to expect. Had no complaints with anything.Have booked for next year.

Hi Terry, thanks for your comment. Good to hear you had a great time. Enjoy your next cruise. Emma

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Hi Emma like to cruise but think as a single don’t know why I should have to pay at least a third more for a single cabin tony

Hi Tony, I know I agree. I think more could be done for solo travellers. Look out for no or low solo supplements, they do pop up time from time. I got a great deal on Iona last spring with no solo supplement. Emma

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I went with Iona for our honeymoon. I’m afraid to say I actually found it extremely disappointing, the canned water tasted so bad I actually went on to buy some bottled. Not enough milk left out for a proper lattes, the toilet is one of these new air toilets which makes an appalling noise when flushed! The food choices available at the on board restaurants for vegetarians I found very limiting and what P&O don’t tell you is the cost of the WiFi. You have to pay £100 for a week worth of service which at times was hardly usable and unreliable. I felt totally left down by this cruise company and would certainly not use them again.

Hi Jessica. Congratulations on your wedding. Sorry to hear your honeymoon was disappointing.

Yes, the toilets are loud aren’t they? I took a water bottle and used the refill stations, that didn’t taste too bad. Milk, I used to bring some down from the buffet and kept that in my cabin fridge for a morning cuppa. Wifi, it does feel expensive…I think would be good if it was included like some other cruise line. I ended up just using it for the odd sea day and then just waited till in port. Was good excuse to have a break from the phone.

Maybe it’s worth looking at some other cruise lines? I think there is definitely a cruise line for everyone. You just need to find it. Emma

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Ships too big!

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I went on my first cruise this year for my anniversary I was not disappointed we booked inside cabin but when got to cabin had sea view, the entertainment was good met Harry rednap ,Alfie boe and Russel Watson and some other great guests. We went on the Ventura would go again

Hi Hazel, wow that sounds great. I’ve not been on Ventura yet. Maybe one day. Emma

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Is there a site where you can get the best deals as a single person? I’ve just done a cruise with my son and know that I’d love to be able to cruise more but I’d have to go alone. Thanks.

Hi Eve, thanks for your comment. There are a couple of solo cruise groups on facebook where good deals are often posted. I also keep an eye on the cruise company websites for any low/no solo supplement deals. There are some good deals out there, just got to keep looking. Emma

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I have cruised with P and O but never on the Iona. Always had a balcony cabin and never like you described. I don’t like cruising very much as it is and an inside cabin or one as you described, I would never cruise again. Now you want to know why I cruise if I don’t like it. Well here it is, no entertainment that I enjoy. They cut trips to suit themselves. The spend money is your own money over paid in the ticket price which you don’t get back if it isn’t spent. At one time you were forced to pay tips but not now. It’s my partner who loves cruising I just pay for them.

Hi John. What other ships have you cruised on? I’ve only been on Iona and Britannia so far with P&O. I think the entertainment can be a bit hit and miss. Guess it depends on what you like. I tend to stick to live music and avoid the comedians. On Iona you have the SkyDome which has some great aerial shows (mostly, there was one on the first Iona trip I did that seemed to leave most people scratching their heads, still have no idea what is was about) which I think is a bit different from some of their other ships. Emma

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We were allocated 5420 on a staycation and in order to avoid the dreaded deck 8, we paid select price to choose this cabin again. It was great! I’m not keen on heights so it’s perfect.

Hi Lynne, thanks for your comment. Deck 5 is a great choice if not keen on heights. Not too high but still able to enjoy the views. I would choose deck 5 again too I think. Emma

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Hello, thanks for your review. I am thinking of first cruise with family to Norway on Iona and would need single balcony. How much would be a good price? Thankyou

Hi Beryl, thanks for your your comment.The price can vary quite a lot depending on when you go, how busy it is and if there are any offers on etc. The two things to look out for are no or low solo supplements and always check what a standard cabin at solo occupancy is. I’ve travelled on Iona twice and both times the standard cabin was cheaper than the solo cabin (and much bigger).

To give you an example of Norway prices for solo on P&O, when I first booked it (back in 2019) it was around £1k however, when I moved it to 2022 it had jumped to £1.5k (lots of people were moving cruises then I think). So I’d say my original price was a great deal, what I actually ended up paying not so much. The trip was wonderful though so it was well worth the money. I’d expect to pay something between those prices for a single cabin.

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We had an inside cabin 5304, loved it, close to everything, used the gym so just across the landing, can’t fault any part of it!

Thanks for the comment Debbie, deck 5 is great isn’t it? I had an inside cabin on my previous cruise up on deck 9 and loved it. Would book an inside cabin again one day for sure.

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We had a balcony cabin on deck 11 and found that alternate cabins had a different bed/dressing area arrangement. Some cabins also accommodated bunk beds. You can bring a fridge magnet and stick it on your door to find your cabin easier. Bring some photos of family, friends to personalise your room. Once the sun was out it was very difficult to find an available jacuzzi. The restaurants were a much better dining experience than the Horizon. When joining a queue, you have to be very diligent to stop people pushing in!

Hi Tony, thanks for those great tips. The fridge magnet is a great idea, I’ll defo do that next time. I know what you mean about the jacuzzi’s and queues, although I guess to be kind of expected on such a large ship. Hope you had a great holiday. Emma

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We Stayed in 3 Different Balcony Cabins (P&O’s Arvia and Iona) – Comparison

If you are considering sailing on P&O’s Arvia or Iona, you may wonder if a balcony cabin would suit you. I have stayed in three types in the past.

P&O’s Arvia and Iona are sister ships. I have sailed on both – they are very very similar in many ways.

The design and decor of the cabins are identical, so if you are sailing on either ship – this article will help.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

P&O’s Iona and Arvia

Arvia is the largest ship ever commissioned for the British cruise market at around 184,700 gross tonnes.

Iona is very slightly smaller at around 184,089 tonnes.

Iona has been sailing since 2020, and Arvia joined the P&O fleet in 2022.

Both Iona and Arvia have a normal operating capacity of 5,200 guests and 1,800 crew – but if all the 3rd and 4th berths are in use she can take just over 6500 passengers.

Iona is home to 2,614 cabins, including 1,366 Balcony, 120 Deluxe Balcony and 95 Conservatory Mini-suites

Arvia has more Balcony cabins than sister ship Iona, some of which are Deluxe Balcony cabins which have nearly as much space as a suite.

She has fewer conservatory mini-suite cabins than Iona.

Standard Balcony Cabins On Arvia and Iona

Balcony cabins range between 142 and 279 square feet / 13 and 25 square metres.

Balcony cabins can hold up to 4 people.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

The cabins are decorated in tasteful blues and creams, with a striking patterned carpet on the floor.

All Balcony Cabins Have:

  • A double bed that can be made into two twins
  • A sofa bed that can be made up as a single bed. If four people are sharing a cabin there will be a fourth bed (Pullman bed) that comes down from the ceiling above the sofa bed.
  • A table that can be used as a bedside table if the sofa bed is occupied.
  • A desk area and a chair.
  • Mini Fridge
  • Safe inside the wardrobe/closet
  • Bedside tables with USB charging port on one side only
  • Tea and Coffee making facilities
  • Interactive TV with many TV shows and films to choose from, free of charge.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

The Bathroom

The bathroom was very well designed to make the most of the available space.

The shower was a good size, had a glass shower door and water didn’t leak out into the rest of the room, making everything wet – like so many other cruise ship bathrooms I have stayed in.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

Our room was made up just once a day. Unfortunately, there were no bedtime chocolates involved like there are on some other cruise lines.

There were magnetic “Do Not Disturb” and “I’m Out Exploring” signs so that the cabin steward knew whether to come in and clean or not.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

My Cabin Was – 12118

Arvia plan cabin 12118

What I Particularly Liked:

  • I liked the design and style of the cabin and the bed was very comfy
  • The well-designed bathroom.
  • The design of the table by the sofa which was a great space-saving design
  • The interactive TV was great for checking my onboard account, and there was a lot of choice when it came to things to watch.
  • We had a great view from our balcony of the promenade deck – and the land when we were docked.
  • Good hairdryer

Things That I Didn’t Like:

  • Not a great deal of storage – ok for two people, but it would be a struggle if four people were sharing the cabin.
  • There was no magnet on the shower door – only a minor detail – but I went to the bathroom in the middle of the night when the sea was quite rough. I opened the bathroom door and walked straight into the glass shower door which had swung open!
  • USB socket by the bed on one side only.
  • My location was right at the front of the ship. It was a long walk to anywhere ( which I don’t particularly mind, but it certainly wouldn’t suit everyone). Because of the location, the movement of the ship was far more noticeable than elsewhere.
  • Even when the balcony door was tightly shut, the noise of the wind through it was SO loud. Luckily I am quite a heavy sleeper…

Would I Choose Balcony Cabin number 12118 Again?

I would happily stay in a standard balcony again but if I was choosing the location I’d pick one closer to the middle to minimise movement and the wind.

If I booked a guaranteed cabin and was assigned this cabin again I would still be happy.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

I often choose “Guaranteed” cabins where I don’t get to choose the location onboard to save money. Find out more about that here:

I Always Book Guaranteed Cabins on Cruise Ships – (Photo Examples, Regrets & More)

My Parent’s Balcony -15602

Arvia deck plan cabin 15602

My parent’s balcony cabin was exactly the same in design as mine.

My brother shared with them, so there were three in the cabin, with my brother Max sleeping on the sofa bed.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

They also found the cabin to be very comfortable and well-designed, but there were a few things they didn’t like about the location .

What they didn’t like:

  • Because it was on deck 15, and deck 16 stuck out further, the cabin never got the sun.
  • There was a metal bulkhead between them and the next-door cabin, instead of the normal partition. This made the area even darker.
  • There wasn’t really enough storage/wardrobe space for three adults.
  • The location of the cabin, below the kitchen area of the buffet, was very noisy.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

“The hard working crew were working in the kitchens until around two or three every morning – then started again around 5am. They were dropping things, dragging stuff about, slamming doors – even wearing ear plugs every night, we never got a good nights sleep.” – My Mum

Would They Choose Balcony Cabin Number 15602 Again?

No, definitely not!

My parents have taken over fifty cruises, and have never had a cabin anywhere near as noisy as this one.

If you value a good night’s sleep – choose a balcony cabin on a deck further down.

Cabins on decks 14 through to 10 are surrounded by only other cabins, not public areas – they would be far quieter.

Promenade Deck Conservatory Cabin (Mini Suite)

Cabin 8304 on iona.

Conservatory Mini Suite cabin no 8304

When I sailed on Iona, we had the Conservatory Mini Suite on deck 8.

These conservatory mini-suites are identical in every way to a standard balcony cabin – but they have an additional Conservatory seating area.

Conservatory Mini Suite on Iona

The balcony opens out directly onto the promenade deck, so you don’t have an uninterrupted view of the Ocean .

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

People can be walking past the end of your balcony at any time of the day or night. There are also hot tubs situated on the promenade deck, and they can be quite close to your cabin.

(Having said that you also can’t get down onto the promenade deck to use the hot tubs without climbing over the edge of the glass balcony partition. It’s a long way round.)

As with the standard balcony cabin, I loved the design and layout of the cabin itself.

Having the extra conservatory area was a bonus, as I was sharing a cabin with my parents and sleeping on the sofa bed. Space was at a premium.

Deck 8 Iona Mini Suite Conservatory Cabin

Things that People Don’t Like About Conservatory Mini Suites

  • The suites on deck 8 are at the same level as the promenade deck, so people are walking past them all the time. The same suite on deck 9 would give you more privacy.
  • People may be able to see into your conservatory area, depending on the light. P&O have put a mirrored surface on the patio doors to try to prevent this from happening, but if you have the lights on in the conservatory, people are likely to be able to see you in there.
  • No direct view of the ocean – there is the promenade deck and glass screens between you and the sea.

Find out more about that Mini Suite Cabin here:

Many Ships Are Similar To Arvia and Iona

Other ships sailing for other cruise lines are built to the same basic design as Arvia and Iona. These include:

  • Costa Smeralda
  • Costa Toscana
  • Carnival Mardi Gras
  • Carnival Celebration
  • Carnival Jubilee

The Interior design and decor of the ships are very different though. P&O’s Arvia and Iona have tasteful, muted colours throughout.

I sailed on Costa Smeralda – every single deck was painted a different bright colour!

My balcony cabin had a very unusual feature. Watch the video below to find out about that:

Before You Go

I also stayed in the cheapest inside cabin on Iona to see if it offered good value for money. It was one of my favourite inside cabins ever. Find out all about that cabin here:

P&O Iona Inside Cabin Photo Review – Space, Bathroom, Cleanliness and More

Find out how P&O’s Mega ships Iona and Arvia compare to the older ships in the P&O fleet here:

I Cruised on P&O’s Iona and Ventura – Here’s How They Compare

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

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P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin Review

We spent a week on the brand new cruise ship Iona, this was one of the first UK Seacations and our first cruise back with P&O since our cruise on Oceana pre COVID Pandemic.

We had booked a guarantee balcony cabin and had our cabin changed when we arrived at the port. Embarkation did not run smoothly (watch our vlog series ) but when we eventually got to our cabin we were very surprised to see we had been allocated an accessible cabin on deck 12 – 12514.

In this post we show you all around this type of cabin, including the main room. bathroom, storage, accessibility functions and one of the largest balconies on this ship.

We have also included our video tour and review of this cabin at the end of this post too.

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review Entrance

Accessible cabin 12514 is situated mid ship right around the corner from the lifts. This cabin is in an excellent location and even though it is so close to the lift we were never disturbed by any noise.

Access to the cabin is by using your cruise card and once recognised, the door opens automatically. There is space and access all around the bed and no lips or obstructions to be navigated.

The bed in this cabin was so comfortable, and we slept really well. In this post we explain exactly what else this cabin has to offer.

Related Reading – P&O WiFi Packages – How much do they cost?

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Storage and facilities in P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review Storage space wardrobes and cupboards

There is a lot of storage in this cabin including space for cases and fold away equipment under the bed. There are two large wardrobes, one with a rail that can be pulled to a lower level and another 3 door wardrobe with lots of shelves and space.

Near to the vanity desk area there is a safe which can fit a small lap top or iPad and also a fridge which can fit the tin bottles of waters you can get at the bar and fit the two bottles of alcohol that you are allowed to take on board. There is also a kettle in the room with  PG Tips tea bags, milk, sugar and Douwe Egberts coffee provided.

Related reading – P&O Bar Prices and Drinks Packages

There are sensory facilities within the cabin when the doorbell rings or the safety announcements occur. There is a vibrating pad that can be placed under the pillow, a loud alarm that sounds and also a flashing light so that any one with sensory deficiencies can be alerted.

There are English 3 pin plugs by each side of the bed and by the desk so charging equipment, phones and cameras was not an issue at all. There was also a powerful hairdryer provided too. A large TV opposite the bed has plenty of channels, a map of the ship and access to your on board account which you can check any time.

The Horizon daily planner is also delivered to your cabin every day and your cabin steward will visit once a day between 8-12 midday to clean your cabin and replenish anything that you need.

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review telephone and communication aids

The Balcony of P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514

This balcony is huge! As you can see from the deck plan above it is an L shape which enables you to have views towards the aft of the ship. It is covered and protected and when sat near to the doors of the cabin you have total privacy, however towards the end of the balcony can be seen from the cabins towards the aft.

The balcony doors are automatic and can be opened and closed by just pulling the handle slightly, they can also be locked. There is a ramp onto the balcony which does have ridged sides, this is fine for wheelchairs but can be a hazard when it comes to hitting your toe, as we painfully found out!

This is a fabulous space, with two reclining chairs and a small table, we spent a lot of time out here.

Related Reading –  P&O Laundry Costs

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review balcony

The Bathroom in P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12415

The bathroom is open plan, with a shower, toilet and wash basin and a push button panel is used to open the door. The shower has a fold down bench that is really large,  and the toilet has handrails on all sides, with one that can be moved up and down. The sink can also be adjusted to what ever height is needed.

It is an excellent bathroom, very spacious and should suits most needs. A couple of negative points though was that at night the door was quite noisy and made a loud click when it closed, not a huge problem just something to note, and the shelves to the right of the sink are high and wouldn’t be able to be reached if your are in a wheelchair.

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review balcony bathroom

This is an well appointed accessible cabin and one of the best that we have seen since travelling with Paul’s Dad. who has limited mobility. We would recommend booking this cabin if you have special needs as it is in a fabulous location, and has a superb sized balcony!

To compliment this post we also have a tour and video review that you can watch below.

Related Videos – For more cabin tours and reviews do check out our Cruise Ship Cabins Playlist on our You Tube Channel.

More information about the P&O Cruise Ship Fleet can also be found on our P&O You Tube Playlist and P&O Page .

View more video blogs on YouTube > > >

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iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

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6 reasons you’ll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

Is it worth paying extra for a balcony cabin?

As someone who has written about cruising for more than two decades , I have heard that question a lot, and I know where I stand on it: Absolutely .

You'll almost always pay more for a balcony cabin on a ship than for a cabin that just has a window — the latter being known in industry lingo as an "ocean-view" cabin. But often, it's not outrageously more. For example, at the time of this story's publishing, fares for balcony cabins on some fall 2024 cruises out of Galveston, Texas, were just 7% more than fares for ocean-view cabins. (Specifically, that was the differential on seven-night sailings in October 2024 on Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas).

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Ocean-view cabins, in turn, were running about 29% more than windowless inside cabins — the third major category of cabins you'll find on ships.

These differentials aren't insignificant, of course. For many vacationers on a tight budget, though, an extra 29% or even 7% for a room can be a deal breaker.

Related: 8 cabin locations on cruise ships that you definitely should avoid

In addition, some people with extra money to spend would rather splurge on shore excursions or other extra-charge items, such as shipboard spa treatments, than on a higher-priced cabin. That makes perfect sense to me. What is most important to one person on a vacation may be different from what is important to another person.

However, here are six things you'll get out of a balcony cabin that I personally think make it worth the extra cost if you have the money to spare.

The fresh air

For me, this is the big reason to get a balcony cabin. At any time of the day — or night — you can slide open your balcony door and breathe in the fresh ocean air. You'll also be able to hear the sounds of the waves as they crash against the bow of your ship. It's a wonderfully soothing, rhythmic sound — so soothing that it can lull you to sleep.

Even on cruises in cold weather, there's nothing quite like stepping out on a balcony for a few minutes or more to soak in the salty breeze. It's invigorating.

Related: 5 reasons you might want to turn down a cabin upgrade

The fresh air available on balconies also can be a lifesaver — at least for your sanity — should you find yourself confined to your cabin due to an illness. That can happen if you come down with something like norovirus or COVID-19 on a ship. This happened to cruisers quite a bit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, and many of the people who were isolated in cabins without balconies for days weren't thrilled with the lack of access to fresh air.

I can attest personally to the fact that it isn't a great situation to be stuck in a room that doesn't have a balcony for days. In late 2020, I was isolated in a cabin without a balcony for four days during a COVID-19-related ship quarantine, even though I wasn't sick. I would have paid just about anything during those days for even the smallest bit of outdoor space.

The ultimate privacy

Cruise ships can be crowded places . Even on luxury ships, which generally have more space per passenger than mass-market vessels, you'll likely be sharing the pool deck with dozens or even hundreds of other people. On some of the biggest vessels, such as Royal Caribbean's giant new Icon of the Seas , you'll compete for deck chairs with literally thousands of others. Private, it isn't — nor is it often quiet. The pool decks of cruise ships can be noisy places.

If you have a balcony cabin, you're always guaranteed an outdoor space where you can lounge for a few hours in complete privacy. And, in general, it will be a quiet outdoor space. While you will sometimes hear the sounds of other passengers nearby on their own balconies, for the most part, it's a much more serene experience than being up on the top deck.

The best views

Balcony cabins don't just offer you access to an outdoor space. They typically also offer you a great view of the outdoors from inside your cabin.

This is because the doors leading to balconies in balcony cabins usually are made almost entirely of glass running from floor to ceiling. Often, a balcony cabin will have both a floor-to-ceiling glass door leading to the outside as well as floor-to-ceiling windows that make for what is, in effect, an outward-facing wall made entirely of glass. Ocean-view cabins without balconies, by contrast, often have just a single window. Some just have portholes.

Related: 7 reasons to splurge for a suite on your next cruise

The result is that you'll generally have a much better view of the outdoors from the inside of a balcony cabin than from the inside of an ocean-view cabin.

The chance for wildlife encounters

Speaking of the view, you're going to be able to see passing wildlife much better from a balcony cabin than an ocean-view cabin. If you stand at the edge of your balcony railing, you'll be able to twist your head side-to-side to get a 180-degree view of the passing waters. That's two or three times the field of vision that you'll get from gazing out a cabin window.

Related: The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship

I've found balcony cabins to be particularly wonderful to have in wildlife-filled destinations such as Alaska, where ships sometimes pass such spectacular creatures as whales in the water or bears along the shoreline. Often, the captain of a vessel will spot such animals first and then make a public announcement to passengers to head to the sides of the ship to look. If you're in a balcony cabin (and on the correct side of the ship), you'll be gazing down upon these sights in no time.

The chance for a romantic dinner

There's nothing that says romance like a private dinner for two under the stars. And that's exactly what you can do on your balcony on many cruise ships, with the waves as a background soundtrack.

Some upscale lines will arrange an elegant, private dinner for two on your balcony — think white tablecloths, multiple courses, the works — at no extra charge. Among mass-market lines, Princess Cruises offers an Ultimate Balcony Dining experience at an extra charge that brings a four-course meal, Champagne and cocktails or a glass of wine. In the case of the Princess offering, you'll even get fresh flowers and a (flameless) candle on your table.

The perfect spot to watch a port arrival

I'm a big fan of getting up early to watch as cruise ships pull into ports. In some places, such as New York and Sydney, the experience is a highlight of the trip. The arrival into New York, in particular, is one of the great cruise experiences. Your ship will glide under the giant Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge (often with just feet to spare) before passing the Statue of Liberty and the skyline of lower Manhattan.

Related: What's a cruise cabin guarantee — and can it save you money?

But as spectacular as they are, these arrivals into ports often take place very early in the morning, before you (or at least your bed-head hair) may be ready to go out into the world. What's great about having a balcony is that you don't have to get dressed and ready for the day to watch a port arrival. You can just roll out of bed in your jammies and head out on the balcony.

Of course, you have to be on the correct side of the ship to get certain views. Arriving in New York, there is an allure to watching the arrival from both sides of a vessel. From the port side, you'll get the best view of the Statue of Liberty. But the starboard side brings you the best views of downtown Manhattan, assuming you're on a vessel heading to a midtown pier.

Bottom line

Balcony cabins cost more than ocean-view cabins or windowless "inside" cabins. But they can be worth the splurge if you're the kind of person who likes a private place to be outdoors during a vacation. No matter how crowded your ship is, you always can escape to your balcony, if you have one, and watch the world go by with few distractions.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

  • A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
  • 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
  • 15 ways cruisers waste money
  • 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
  • What to pack for your 1st cruise

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Lady on the balcony of her Veranda Suite, Silver Muse

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Iona Stateroom Cabin 15528

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  • Large Interior
  • Seaview (Oceanview)
  • Smaller Balcony
  • Deluxe Balcony
  • Conservatory Mini-Suite
  • Family Seaview Suite
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  • Cabin Check

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Iona Balcony cabin number 15528 ACTUAL videos and/or pictures, floor plans, diagrams and detailed features including a deck image of the actual location on the Iona ship for cabin 15528. Cruisedeckplans.com has 58,707 different (staterooms) cabins that have actual cabin pictures and/or cabin videos taken by real cruisers. That is plenty of coverage to provide you with a good sampling of all the different cabins on cruise ships. Take a minute and notice the breadcrumb menu above. This is a quick easy way to navigate our website. You can also use the menu above for menu items specific to the Iona cruise ship.

Cabin 15528

  • Two twin beds that make up into a king-sized bed
  • Bath with shower
  • In-room safe
  • Mini-Fridge
  • Flat screen tv with movies
  • Chair and table
  • Floor to ceiling sliding glass doors leading to balcony
  • Balcony with table and reclining chairs

Floor plans may not represent actual stateroom. Click to zoom.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

Deck location

deck-location

Important Info

Iona balcony cabin 15528 pictures.

These are some actual stateroom pictures of cabin 15528 on the Iona. Click on images below for larger image and slide show. The slide show will show the date the picture was uploaded to out website. This date is useful because Iona typically will update its cabins every three to five years with new carpeting and decor. We will keep older pictures for you to compare the more recent photos to. The pictures are sorted by the newest ones first. Most of our cabin pictures are contributed by actual cruisers. We pay 50 cents for any that we use. You can upload your cabin photos HERE . Afer you are done looking at these photos and/or the videos below you can click here to select another cabin .

Iona Balcony 15528 cabin videos

Scroll over cabin (stateroom) tiles below to click and watch actual stateroom videos of Iona cabin 15528. You can choose to watch the videos right on this page, or click to watch them on YouTube (will open in new window). When you are done viewing these videos and/or the cabin pictures above, you can click here to select another cabin. The date shown below is the date video was published. Use this to see decor changes. Keep in mind that stateroom cabins are typically updated once every three to five years. To save you time, Cruisedeckplans.com will spend hours every week finding more actual stateroom videos on YouTube.

Looking for other Balcony cabins with pics/videos?

Looking for other cabins with pics/videos on 15 (deck), other stateroom cabin categories on iona.

These are all the stateroom cabin categories Iona. You can click on a stateroom category below to go to that page. Categories are simply the way that PO UK groups the different types of staterooms (cabins). You can see details and floor plans for all of the categories on Iona on this page.

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IMAGES

  1. Iona Deluxe Balcony Stateroom Info

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  2. Cabins on Iona

    iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

  3. First Secret Revealed Of P&O's Iona: British Contemporary Luxury At Its

    iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

  4. Cabin Details

    iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

  5. Iona Deluxe Balcony Stateroom Details

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  6. P&O Cruises IONA Deluxe Balcony Tour Cabin 14737

    iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

VIDEO

  1. Sky Princess Deluxe Balcony C509

  2. P&O Iona Large Balcony Cabin 15317

  3. Discovery Princess Forward Facing Deluxe Balcony Cabin L101

  4. Boarding and cabin tour

  5. Square Inside Cabin 12241 P&O IONA Cruise Ship

  6. Balcony Cabin Tour 10725 P&O IONA Cruise Ship

COMMENTS

  1. P&O Iona Deluxe Balcony Cabin Tour

    Deluxe Balcony cabin tour on P&O's latest ship Iona. Cabin number 14.101 - forward facing (below the bridge). We absolutely loved this cabin - the decore is ...

  2. Iona Deluxe Balcony Stateroom Cabins

    Stateroom cabin categories are simply the way that PO UK groups the different types of staterooms (cabins). You can see details and floor plans for all of the categories on Iona on this page. Interior Large Interior Seaview (Oceanview) Smaller Balcony Balcony Deluxe Balcony Conservatory Mini-Suite Family Seaview Suite Suite. All the details for ...

  3. Comparing P&O Iona's balconies

    Join us as we explore a standard and a deluxe balcony cabin on P&O's latest ship Iona. We take a close look at these two cabins; not only the main difference...

  4. P&O Iona Cruise Ship Cabin Tour

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  5. Pick A Cabin Iona Deluxe Balcony

    Iona Deluxe Balcony Cabins. The following is a listing of all the cabins we have pictures or videos for on this ship and also on the sister ships. The cabins on sister ships are usually similar but that is not always the case. Click on any cabin number link to view pictures and/or videos. Youtube column will say "YouTube" if there is a video ...

  6. P&O Iona Cabins To Avoid: (With Photos & Videos)

    Balcony cabins on Iona. Iona has four sizes of balcony cabins: Single balcony - 107 sq. ft. (1 person) Smaller balcony - 150 sq. ft. (1 or 2 people) Standard balcony - 170 sq. ft. (2 to 4 people) Deluxe balcony - 226 sq. ft. (2 to 4 people) Please note that these are approximate sizes.

  7. P&O Iona Cabins

    The breakdown of the cabins within each type is as follows: 811 Inside cabins, 174 Sea View Cabins, 1496 Balcony cabins. 95 Conservatory Mini-suites, and 24 Suites. For solo travellers, Iona has 22 Single cabins and there are also 2 Family cabins.. If you require an accessible Cabin, there are 55 in various categories.

  8. Iona cabins and suites

    Iona cabins review. PO Iona cruise ship cabins are 4 main types (suite, balcony, sea view/oceanview/outside, interior, single), divided into 12 categories and 32 grades. The liner has a total of 2614 passenger staterooms and max capacity 6264 (5204 lower berths). Staterooms include 121 Suites, 1496 Balcony, 174 Oceanviews/Seaviews, 819 Interior ...

  9. P&O Iona: Your Guide To Choosing The Best Cabin!

    P&O Iona offers various cabin options including inside cabins, sea view cabins, balcony cabins, conservatory mini-suites, and suites. Cabin grades on Iona are based on type and location, and sizes range from 101 to 530 sq. ft. When choosing a cabin on Iona, personal preferences should be taken into consideration, and families should consider ...

  10. Iona Cabins & Staterooms on Cruise Critic

    There are three basic cabin types on Iona (this is applicable to all cruise ships): Inside, Outside, and Balcony. Everything else is a variation on this, including the suites, of which there are ...

  11. P&O Iona Balcony Cabin (Deck 5) review

    Location of Iona's balcony cabins. Before I get into what a balcony cabin on deck five is like, here is a quick word about balcony cabins in general on Iona. Iona has 2,164 cabins in total. 1,366 of them are balcony cabins with 120 of those deluxe balcony cabins. There are also 95 conservatory mini-suites and 24 suites which have balconies too.

  12. Iona Cabins & Staterooms on Cruise Critic

    There are three basic cabin types on Iona (this is applicable to all cruise ships): Inside, Outside, and Balcony. Everything else is a variation on this, including the suites, of which there are ...

  13. P&O Cruises IONA Deluxe Balcony Tour Cabin 14737

    Thanks for stopping by to watch. Let me take you on a tour of this wonderful aft Deluxe Cabin on P&O Cruises Newest Cruise Ship - Iona#PandOCruises #Iona #C...

  14. We Stayed in 3 Different Balcony Cabins (P&O's Arvia and Iona

    Arvia has more Balcony cabins than sister ship Iona, some of which are Deluxe Balcony cabins which have nearly as much space as a suite. She has fewer conservatory mini-suite cabins than Iona. Standard Balcony Cabins On Arvia and Iona. Balcony cabins range between 142 and 279 square feet / 13 and 25 square metres. Balcony cabins can hold up to ...

  15. Iona Cruise Ship Highlights

    Explore Iona cruise deals and book your trip with P&O Cruises. ... She's home to 2,614 cabins including 811 Inside, 174 Sea view, 1,366 Balcony, 120 Deluxe Balcony, 95 Conservatory Mini-suite, 24 Suite, 22 Single and 2 Family cabins. ... Dame Irene named Iona when the ship entered service in May 2021.

  16. Iona Cabin 15101

    Cabin 15101. Iona Deluxe Balcony cabin number 15101 ACTUAL videos and/or pictures, floor plans, diagrams and detailed features including a deck image of the actual location on the Iona ship for cabin 15101. Cruisedeckplans.com has 56,110 different (staterooms) cabins that have actual cabin pictures and/or cabin videos taken by real cruisers.

  17. P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin Review

    We spent a week on the brand new cruise ship Iona, this was one of the first UK Seacations and our first cruise back with P&O since our cruise on Oceana pre COVID Pandemic. We had booked a guarantee balcony cabin and had our cabin changed when we arrived at the port. Embarkation did not run smoothly ...

  18. Cabins on Iona

    All the info you need on Iona cabins with P&O Cruises. Easily find all the details for your cruise holiday: images, stats and their relevant deck plans. ... Cruise Ships; Iona Cabins; 370 Reviews. Iona Cabins. Inside Cabins. Single inside. ... Balcony deluxe. Minimum cabin size: 226 sq.ft. Deck 8, Deck 9, ...

  19. Iona Balcony Stateroom Cabins

    Click on a category below to go to that page. Stateroom cabin categories are simply the way that PO UK groups the different types of staterooms (cabins). You can see details and floor plans for all of the categories on Iona on this page. All the details for Iona Balcony stateroom cabin category including actual pictures and/or videos, diagrams ...

  20. 6 reasons you'll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

    For example, at the time of this story's publishing, fares for balcony cabins on some fall 2024 cruises out of Galveston, Texas, were just 7% more than fares for ocean-view cabins.

  21. Iona Standard Balcony Cabin Tour (GD Grade)

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  22. Iona Cabin 15528

    Cabin 15528. Iona Balcony cabin number 15528 ACTUAL videos and/or pictures, floor plans, diagrams and detailed features including a deck image of the actual location on the Iona ship for cabin 15528. Cruisedeckplans.com has 58,483 different (staterooms) cabins that have actual cabin pictures and/or cabin videos taken by real cruisers.

  23. P&O Iona Cruise Ship Standard Balcony Cabin Tour and Review

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