p&o cruise reviews iona

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Iona Deck Plans & Reviews

Activities & entertainment

• Crows Nest _ Observation Lounge
• Cooking Demonstrations
• Dance Classes
• Splash Zone
• Whirlpools (18)
• Hydrotherapy Pool *
• Oasis Spa *
• Thermal Suite *
• Late_Night Activities
• Fitness Classes
• Jogging Track
• Organized Activities and Games
• Sports Court
• The Retreat *
• Art Gallery *
• The Avenue Shopping *
• The Photo Hub *
• Ivory Suite
• The Reef _ Kids Club
• Scene _ Teens Club
• Shore Experiences *
• Loyalty and Cruise Sales *
• Self_Service Laundry *
• Medical Center
• Headliners Theatre
• Nightly Live Music
• Ocean Studios
• The Club House
• The Limelight Club
• The 710 Club
• Enrichment Lectures
• Aqua Restaurant - Main
• Coral Restaurant - Main
• Opal Restaurant - Main
• Pearl Restaurant - Main
• Vistas Cafe Bar - Coffee Bar *
• Emerald Bar - Atrium Bar *
• Brodies - Pub *
• Sindhu - British-Indian *
• Sindhu Bar - British-Indian Bar *
• Horizon Restaurant - Buffet
• The Beach House - Steakhouse *
• Andersons Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Epicurean - Gourmet *
• The Olive Grove - Mediterranean *
• Crystal Bar - Pool Bar *
• Beachcomber Bar - Pool Bar *
• Infinity Bar - Pool Bar *
• Laguna Bar and Sundaes - Pool Bar *
• Sky Bar - Pool Bar *
• Sunset Bar - Pool Bar *
• The Keel and Cow - Gastropub *
• Panorama Bar - Pool Bar *
• The Glass House - Wine Bar *
• The Quays - Worldwide Snacks *
• Ripples - Ice Cream *
• Grab and Go - Snacks
• Taste 360 - Street Food
• Room Service *

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P&O Iona Cruise Ship Review 2023

The P&O Iona is the second newest ship in the 7 strong P&O fleet and was built by the German ship builder Meyer Werft at a cost of £730 million. The rest of the fleet are as follows, Arvia (the newest), Britannia, Azura, Ventura, Arcadia (adults only) and Aurora (adults only).

We have recently returned from a 7 night cruise on P&O Iona and in this post we detail our experience on this ship and show you what this ship has to offer.

In August 2021 we took our first cruise on the P&O Iona with covid restrictions in place there were only 1000 passengers on board, we had a great time and if you haven’t seen our vlog series yet you can view it here.

With all restrictions now lifted and the ship sailing at near capacity including nearly 1000 children how would this cruise compare to the one we had taken 18 months ago. There had been loads of negative comments all over social media but as with all our cruises we went with a completely open mind.

P&O Iona Facts and Figures

Capacity – 5,200 guests or 6000 guests if all shared occupancy is taken, 1800 crew.

Gross Tonnage – 184.000

We booked a seven night cruise from Southampton , cruising to Hamburg, Rotterdam and Zeebrugge and paid £1818 for the two of us in a standard balcony cabin which included £165 on board credit.

What We Think Worked Well on P&O Iona

P&o iona entertainment.

The Entertainment venues on P&O Iona are The 710 Club, Headliners Theatre, The Club House, The Limelight Club, SkyDome, Oceans Cinema and Brodie’s Pub, there is also occasionally a singer in the Atrium.

Things that need to be pre booked either before your cruise or on the app once on board are the theatre, the 710 club, the Limelight Club and all speciality dining including the main dining rooms.

Things you don’t need to book for include the Pub, the Casino, the SkyDome, the Clubhouse and  all food at the Quays and the Buffet.

Headliners Theatre – booking on the app required. On our previous cruise we felt the show team in the Headliners Theatre were really quite poor but how things have changed. From one of the weakest show teams to one of the strongest, there were no weak links at all with both singers and dancers performing to a very high standard. We really were blown away by how good they were, and thoroughly enjoyed Centre Stage in particular.

The other act we saw in the theatre was Ventriloquist and comedian Gareth Oliver. Gareth auditioned on the same episode of Britain’s Got Talent as Susan Boyle and made it to the semi final, he is absolutely hilarious and if you get chance to see him you should take it!

The 710 Club – booking on the app required. This place is a must visit, the Gary Barlow inspired night club is small but perfectly formed, with seating for around 80 people it is atmospheric and chic and it really makes you feel that you are part of something very special.

The 710 club alternates between a four piece band and a busker, we saw the four piece but due to illness became a three, with different themes ranging from super groups to No1’s we had a fabulous time and had front row seats too!

The SkyDome is a family friendly indoor pool by day and at night the pool is covered creating a massive performance area. On this cruise the shows we saw was Triboo a twist on West Side Story where two ancient tribes battle for supremacy with fighting skills and thrilling high wire stunts it is an absolute visual treat from start to finish and we would highly recommend it.

The Club House – no booking required but sometimes we had to queue for a seat. This is the home of Bingo which is very popular and sport is also shown on multiple televisions and also on a big screen, but it is the night time shows that properly showcases this excellent lounge.

Resident house band Pulse are on most nights playing hits for all ages and were excellent every time we saw them. You also get the chance of a second helping of some of the guest artists and we jumped at the chance to see Gareth Oliver again with a brand new show, once again our faces were aching from laughing so much.

Ocean Studio Cinema – no booking required. This 4 screen cinema is included in your cruise fare and show films ranging from the latest blockbusters to old classics of the silver screen there is even ice cream and popcorn available too at an extra cost.

Brodies Pub – no booking required. This is the place for live sport, quizzes and the home of the resident busker but if there is something that you fancy get there early as it gets very busy.

P&O Iona Food

Lets start with the Main Dining Rooms and are included in your cruise fare. You can pre book or just turn up and there are four to choose from Pearl, Coral, Opel and Aqua. We had read lots of negative things on social media regarding the main dining rooms but the rumours couldn’t have been further from our experience. We visited the main dining rooms on four occasions during our cruise and didn’t pre book for any of them. On all occasions we were seated very promptly, all our food arrived in good time, was of a good quality and was piping hot.

The Quays – included in your cruise fare, no booking required. The Quays consists of three fast food style outlets, the Fusion Asian Kitchen, Hook Line and Vinegar and Boardwalk Diner

Fusion Asian Kitchen is as the name suggest the place for all things Asian with dishes changing on a daily basis and include katsu curry, thai green curry, spicy pork curry, yes you’ve guessed it its the place for amazing curries including vegetarian. We ate here a lot and could not fault the food.

Hook Line and Vinegar is the fish and chip shop with sides available including curry sauce, mushy peas and even pickled onions. One of Paul’s favourite meals is fish and chips and Hook Line and Vinegar did not disappoint.

Boardwalk Diner specialise in burgers, fried chicken and fries. They are also open for breakfast serving pancakes , omelettes or a traditional full English. Around the corner there is also a self-service section offering salads, breads and desserts and a coffee and tea station.

Horizon Buffet – included in your cruise fare, no booking required. P&O really knows how to cater for the British when it comes to breakfast. Great British bangers (sausages), proper bacon, fried bread, black pudding, you name it and they’ve got you covered. However, if healthy or continental is more your thing that’s not a problem either with stacks of cereals, fruit, yogurts, meats, cheeses, pastries and cakes. It was surprisingly quiet on all our breakfast visits but was mega busy at the late night snacks!

Taste 360 – included in your cruise fare, no booking required. Found inside the sky dome, serving pizza, burgers, hot dogs and fries and some unusual daily specials (we had reindeer balls!). It’s a great place for a quick snack.

The Epicurean – comes with an extra charge £30.00, booking required. This is P&O’s premium steakhouse and it definitely didn’t disappoint. This was an event from start to finish and on seating they tell you that your meal will take around two and a half hours so make sure your diary for the evening is fairly free. We cannot praise this place enough from service to presentation to standard of food, to say it was spectacular would be an understatement.

The Keel and Cow – comes with an extra charge, booking required. This was our favourite restaurant on the ship, after the glowing review we gave the Epicurean you are probably thinking how come this is our favourite but here’s why. At the Epicurean you pay a set cover charge regardless of what you eat but with the Keel and Cow you can eat as much or as little as you like and are charged per dish. From delicious starters and mains to scrumptious desserts each item is individually priced.Its a very meat based menu with pies, burgers and massive steaks available but lots of lighter items too!

Due to time constraints we were not able to eat at Sindu or the Glasshouse but did eat there on our previous P&O Iona cruise and found them both to be very good. You can find a review of that cruise by clicking here .

P&O Iona Oasis Spa

The Thermal Suite on the Iona is one of the best we have ever been to and they never over book, so you are not crammed in like sardines.

As with all cruise lines, prices have increased sharply with two hours in the thermal suite now costing £39 which is an increase of 30% from our previous cruise on Iona.

All treatments in the spa have increased too, and you can find out all treatment prices by clicking here .

P&O Iona is Family Friendly

We cruised at half term and there were nearly a thousand children onboard and apart from around the Skydome pool and in the The Club House, we hardly saw any kids, so we are guessing that the kids clubs must be pretty good.

There was also a Sooty and Sweep Show in the theatre which was the talk of the ship and we even spoke to a couple who managed to sneak in despite not having there children with them and they said it was hilarious.

P&O Iona Outside Space

If you’ve seen our previous P&O Iona vlogs you will know that we love a full wrap around promenade deck and the Iona has a beauty, with the added bonus of hot tubs dotted around the deck too it really is a great place to be.

The Aft of the Iona really is quite special with two infinity pools, two whirlpools and a children’s splash zone and when the weather is permitting they also host the hilarious silent disco here too!

What We Think Could Improve on P&O Iona

The app and wifi on p&o iona.

There are lots of things on the ship that you have to book via the My Holiday app which is great when it’s working to its full potential but sadly (as with most cruise lines) that was very rarely the case.

The My Holiday App was very hit and miss and as the Iona is very reliant on pre booking for entertainment and restaurants it does make things very difficult especially for the older generation, what we ended up doing is actually going to the place we were trying to book and ask at the front of house, nine times out of ten we usually got in!

The Wifi is very intermittent and expensive, we didn’t bother to purchase it on this cruise as it was so bad on our previous Iona cruise, to be fair to P&O they did give us a full refund as they were well aware of how poor the Wifi was. Lots of friends we cruised with did purchase the Wifi on this cruise and did confirm that it is still very hit and miss.

P&O Iona Entertainment That We Did Not Enjoy

We only really had really three complaints. The first was the quiz in Brodies pub, on our previous cruise the team quizzes in Broadies were the stuff of legend and so popular that you would have to get there an hour early to get a seat. Sadly that has been replaced by individual quizzes (no teams allowed) or the split the pub down the middle type quiz which was basically a shout fest, we know it sounds petty but anyone who loves quizzing will feel our pain.

The second was the acoustics in the Skydome which tend to range from average to quite bad so if its a music related show we tend to avoid them which is a real shame as they have some great acts in there! Finally again in the Skydome is the show Rise, this has got to be one of the weirdest shows we have ever seen, it really makes no sense what so ever, if someone could explain to us what it is about we would be grateful!

P&O Iona Food That Was Disappointing

We were really underwhelmed by the Beach House and the Olive Grove , the Beach house comes with an additional charge of £9.50 and the Olive grove has chargeable items, booking is required for both.

We felt the settings were more reminiscent of a school canteen, the food was ok but it certainly didn’t feel like it was worthy of a cover charge and being charged extra for for simple items like fries and truffle oil really did seem quite penny pinching.

The Lime light Club comes at an extra cost, booking required, is a fantastic venue but the food that accompanies the show is ok at best and the fact that P&O hasn’t changed the menu in nearly two years is even more disappointing, mushroom stalks as a starter is quite laughable!

Room Service P&O now charges for everything on there room service menu, the only thing that is free is a quite limited breakfast menu but you still have to pay for delivery, we have a complete list of room service food and prices here .

P&O Iona Drinks and Drinks Packages

The drinks package is always a bone of contention. When we cruised in 2021 the drinks package was pretty good value but now in 2023 P&O have since raised the prices of virtually all their drinks, taking a lot out side the £6.95 limit that applies to the package. However, P&O have literally just announced their new drinks packages which you can find in our  comprehensive P&O drinks prices post here . It will be interesting to see how this works on their sailings starting soon.

On our cruise there were no Bloody Mary’s which are Carole’s favourite! Most cruise lines use a pre mix for a bloody Mary but P&O no longer carry this so if you ask for a Bloody Mary they will tell you that they are not available. If however you ask for a vodka, tomato juice with salt, pepper and Worcester sauce they will say yes! How mad is that!

P&O Iona Service

Finally the biggest thing we feel that could be so much better is the service.

First off the standard of the service was as good as any we have received on the majority of our cruises but the problem we had was that almost all of the waiters and bar staff looked like they didn’t want to be there.

No smiles, no introductions, no hows your day been, we love interacting with cruise crew and having some fun banter but sadly this was really lacking. The only place we felt that service really excelled was at Epicurean.

Overall Verdict of our P&O Iona Cruise

We definitely enjoyed this cruise that had over 5000 passengers as much as we did on our previous one that only had a thousand passengers. The could do better section is certainly not a deal breaker but we always give a fair and balanced review on all our cruises and this post definitely reflects this.

The Iona is a beautiful ship and this definitely wont be the last time we sail on her!

Video Review of P&O Iona Cruise Ship

To compliment this written review we also have a video review on our You Tube Channel that you can watch below.

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Iona by p&o cruises: a complete guide & review, plus things to do onboard.

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It’s not often you get a chance to be on a Maiden Voyage . Especially not one as huge as the launch of the new P&O flagship Iona . It was made even more special because I’ve been involved with the launch of this ship for nearly 3 years. From my first trip to Norway , to promote the excursions Iona will be doing there, to watching Gary Barlow live at a London launch.

But this article isn’t about me, that was just me highlighting my connection with Iona. This article is about you, and everything you can do onboard Iona . In this article I will cover everything this ship has to offer. And I mean everything .

Our Maiden Voyage was a cruise around the UK, meaning it didn’t stop anywhere due to Covid restrictions. That had one major benefit, it gave me a whole week on board to see and do as much onboard as possible. I still didn’t cover everything. I think it’s been designed that way, so you come back for more. That’s a smart strategy.

I don’t plan to specifically focus on the Covid rules in this article, however to stay up to date with safety protocols, vaccination requirements and FAQs, please see the P&O Cruises Cruise with Confidence .

Facts about Iona

Before I get into a few facts and figures. The real show-stopping fact for Iona is it’s powered by Liquified Natural Gas . This makes Iona one of the most environmentally friendly cruise ships in the world. She has zero sulphur and nitrogen emissions and produces 20 per cent less carbon than ships running on marine diesel.

That’s impressive. It’s so important to see a huge player in the cruise industry setting the standard. So, onto the facts:

• Iona is the largest ever cruise ship to fly the UK flag
• She can hold 5,200 guests and 1800 crew
• There are more than 30 places to eat and drink onboard
• There are 4 swimming pools (2 infinity pools) and 18 hot tubs
• Iona has the world’s first gin distillery at sea (more on that later)

Dining on Iona

As you’ll see from my video above. P&O Cruises has really set the bar high with dining onboard Iona. This isn’t just some of the best food I’ve eaten at sea, it’s some of the best I’ve ever experienced. Quite frankly, I don’t know where to start when it comes to the cuisine.

Well firstly, there is freedom dining throughout the ship included in the price. There are four main dining areas and a few other casual places included in this. This food is of fantastic quality. Some restaurants have a traditional buffet selection; albeit no longer self-served due to CoronaVirus protocols. And having no self-service is no bad thing in my opinion.

Personally, I love a buffet when I want an informal setting and I’m short on time. However, my favourite of the ‘included’ or ‘free’ selection was The Quays . Three restaurants in a small piazza offering Asian cuisine at Fusion, fish and chips at The Hook or American dining at Boardwalk Diner.

Moving onto the speciality restaurants, which you must try. These incur an extra charge, but for good reason. Usually, the charge isn’t that much and believe me when I say it’s worth it. I suggest you budget for that pre-trip. Here’s a couple of my highlights (keep in mind I did not have time to try every restaurant).

• The Glass House : a light tapas style menu in the Grand Atrium with wines selected by Olly Smith (who happened to say hello when I was there for lunch!)
• The Olive Grove : Mediterranean style food with a small surcharge. Probably my top tip, it wasn’t busy and the value for money is amazing. I recommend the Tagine.
• The Keel and Cow : if you like your steaks and burgers then look no further. The Prime-minister burger is known as the “best burger at sea”, and I love the fact that the blue cheese comes from the Isle of Wight.
• Epicurean : fine dining with British / Norwegian inspired dishes at £28 a head. This is one of many destination-inspired restaurants onboard, a lovely touch.
• The Limelight Club : a three-course meal combined with entertainment. Brilliant. An elegant venue with a cabaret show, we saw the singing plus comedy drag-queen La Voix .
• Sindhu : Authentic Indian food with a British twist.

When it comes to the bars, I’ve included these under things to do below.

Things to do on Iona

I should probably just have a separate article focusing on this alone! And if you’ve not watched the video above, please check that out. My main line in the video is “ you won’t get bored onboard” . That couldn’t ring truer, especially when cruising returns to normal and you’ll be getting off most days.

You’ll most likely find you haven’t even scratched the surface when it comes to exploring Iona.

I’ll break it down into day and night, starting with daytime. Firstly, relaxing. Try 4 swimming pools (two of which are infinity pools) with sunlounges, indoor and out plus 18 hot tubs, enough choice? There’s usually live acoustics around and always a waiter on hand for drinks.

Daytime entertainment

For a tranquil setting, there’s the adults-only Retreat . It offers some of the best views onboard. For even more relaxation book yourself into the Oasis Spa , complete with jacuzzis, sauna, salt room, steam room and hydrotherapy pool. I had the hot stone massage which was incredible. Please book early as this was mostly fully-booked on my trip.

I was also impressed with the size of the gym onboard, which has daily fitness classes and yoga.

For Children

For the children you have “ The Reef ”, which is organised into age-specific clubs with outdoor play areas, and entertainment such as puppet shows and treasure hunts.

Evening entertainment

In the evening your first option is aerial displays and laser shows in the SkyDome . It blew me away how an indoor swimming pool by day was transformed into at acrobatics entertainment area by night.

Your second option on Iona is the two-story auditorium the Headliners Theatre . They host live music, stand-up comedy, and theatre performances such as the new “ Festival ” show which was a fantastic spectacle.

Bars and Drinking

Personally, when cruising I love to spend my evenings in a smaller bar with some live music.

There was no better live music venue than the 710 club (if you can get in). The cosy and very intimate venue has partnered with no other than Gary Barlow as the musical director. But get there early or book in advance, as (rather frustratingly) these were the hottest seats onboard.

There’s also the Crow’s Nest cocktail bar, which has lovely views but wasn’t my favourite atmosphere. Instead, I preferred the Emerald Bar in the Atrium, where I had an exquisite cocktail called ‘ The Smoke that Rocked’ ; a smokey cherry bourbon Old Fashioned. I also found the live music at the Club House , and the informal setting at Brodie’s more my style.

Brodie’s is also conveniently next door to the casino too. However, I was a little disappointed with the Casino, there’s a limited selection of games and just a small number of tables. When the ship is full, I doubt you’ll get much chance to play.

Finally, movie lovers will enjoy Ocean Studios , four cinema screens running throughout the day with the latest surround sound and a mix of classic flicks and recent blockbusters.

Rooms and Suites on Iona

I have always said that once you have a balcony on a cruise, you can never go back. Clearly the inside cabins are friendlier on the wallet. But once you step out of bed and onto your private balcony, with a coffee and the crisp sea air, you won’t go back.

I had a Balcony Suite , which is far more spacious than any previous cruise with P&O Cruises. With a small working and sitting area, a big screen TV and plenty of wardrobe space it’s hard to know what more you need. Oh wait, brand-new for Iona is P&O Cruises very first Conservatory Mini-Suite . These suites have a stunning conservatory style roof over a casual seating area, bringing in loads of natural light and perfect for entertaining or relaxing.

You can also choose from sea-view cabins, inside cabins and solo cabins. I found the inside cabins surprisingly bright and spacious considering there is no natural light, and they also have a small seating area.

The World’s first Gin Distillery at Sea

That’s right, Salcombe Distilling Co. have curated the sea inspired Marabelle Gin which will be distilled onboard, right there for the guests to see. I met Angus from Salcombe Gins to learn about Marabelle. He took inspiration from the Isle of Iona itself, foraging botanicals around the island.

The sea inspiration doesn’t stop there. The label has similarities to the sunset logo from P&O Cruises and star constellations on the inside. But importantly, it’s a stunning gin. I know as I’ve already had a bottle at home, and a few more G&Ts on board. It’s a fresh gin with a distinctive flavour, which coupled with citrus and apple gives you the perfect G&T after a long day exploring the Norwegian Fjords or Canary Islands.

The Gin Distillery is found at Anderson’s Bar and Library , a classy venue to sip a G&T and watch the distilling process in action. All Marabelle bottles with a gold top have been distilled at sea.

Other Unique Features on Iona

All around the ship you can see that every effort has been made to design a ship that feels bright and spacious. It’s a sense of space that you don’t expect on a ship, where space is a premium.

This starts in the stunning 3-story Grand Atrium , the first place you see when you embark. It has floor to ceiling windows (yes spanning all 3 floors), making it the perfect spot for watching the world pass by. It also houses several bars and restaurants, not least the Glasshouse mentioned above.

Next, we have the SkyDome . A huge dome roof gives you the comfort of an indoor pool and somewhere to relax whatever the weather. But the impressive part is how it’s transformed into an entertainment zone in the evenings. With a retractable stage over the pool, we saw aerialists and laser shows late into the night. I can see this having the party atmosphere when the ship is full, especially with DJ sets produced by Blur’s Alex James .

Iona Destinations

Iona will sail to the Norwegian Fjords in the summer, starting in 2022. To me you can’t find a more perfect partnership. As I’ve mentioned above, she is designed to let the outside in, and what more perfect place to marvel from the comfort of the Atrium than the majestic Norwegian Fjords? I even wrote about all the fantastic Norwegian Fjords Excursions you can do, in advance of Iona’s launch.

During the winter Iona will sail to the Canary Islands , another fantastic destination to compliment the ship. We spent our week on the coast of Scotland in summer, a temperate climate and sunny most days. But being around 20-22 degrees meant it could get a little chilly. Well Iona has that covered. Hot tubs dotted all round and the cover pool of the SkyDome mean you can still enjoy some bathing, whether inside or out.

Final thoughts on Iona

On a personal note, I have been excited for the Maiden Voyage of Iona by P&O Cruises for some time. It was a privilege to be onboard and presenting a tour of the ship. Iona has been designed to be different, and to appeal to a younger generation of cruisers. The original launch was due to showcase that with a weeklong festival, one of many plans scuppered by Covid.

Nonetheless Iona will get there, back where she belongs exploring the world. She’s a bold eco-friendly cruise ship with a vibrant atmosphere, targeted at a younger audience. And when she is sailing through the awe-inspiring Norwegian Fjords, I can’t think of a better place to be to witness it.

This article was supported by P&O Cruises but as always, the opinions and photos in the article are all my own, and I think it’s clear to see I loved every minute of my time onboard!

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

0 thoughts on “ Iona by P&O Cruises: A complete Guide & Review, plus Things to do Onboard ”

I really want to know when Gary Barlow is on the Iona surprise present for my daughter treating her to a cruise.

Just reading your comments it says book early for Gary Barlow how can we do that we don’t know when he is on

I went on Iona 7 May to 14 May Norway and Fjords had different cruises booked for 3 years this was first one we went on. Ship was great food good. We went to see Fjords but Iona couldn’t sail through them as high winds so had another day at sea. I have been ill for eleven days since coming off ship. Also paid extra to pick cabin on 11th deck but moved to one 14th deck. Complained but fell on deaf ears. Dissapointing.

I have booked Iona for October, have been trying to contact ROL cruises for over a month, no reply

Hi, sailing on Iona December, to celebrate my partners 70th would like to surprise him with a birthday cake, would they be able to organise one for me at a cost, or should I take one with me. Many thanks

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Cruise Monkeys

Bananas about cruising

P&O Iona Review – Full review of Iona

Welcome to our P&O Iona review, where we will review every aspect of the ship from our cabin, the bars, entertainment and of course, the food.

Anyone who follows us know we normally do a ship tour, but we thought we would try this instead. So it may not be a P&O Iona ship tour, but it should be just as useful!

P&O’s newest and most innovative ship, Iona was designed to invite the outdoors in. Gazing out from the stunning Sky Dome, three-tier glass Grand Atrium or the brand-new Conservatory Mini-suite cabins, you’re never far from a spectacular view of the ever-changing horizon on Iona’s cruise holidays.

Iona is the greenest member of the P&O fleet and the first British cruise ship to be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). As an Excel class ship, she has a host of unique features including an on-board craft gin distillery, spectacular aerial shows and an Infinity Pool with breath-taking panoramas.

P&O Iona entered service in 2021, the 184 thousand tonne Iona has a normal operating capacity of 5,200 passengers..

For this cruise, we paid £489pp for a balcony cabin.

Further reading:

Welcome to the P&O fleet, Iona

P&O Drinks Packages Explained – 2021 prices

https://www.pocruises.com/

• P&O Drinks Menu 2021
• Giveaway – Win your very own “Max” the Cruise Monkey

You May Also Like

Venice Cruise Guide

Iona – Everything you need to know. Updated for 2019

P&O Cruises Cabin Upgrade Programme

Accessibility Links

A review of P&O Cruises’ Iona, Britain’s largest ship

Cruising is back with a big bang this summer. and we do mean big: britain’s newest and most bombastic ship, iona, carries more than 5,000 people. our cruise expert gives you the run-down on p&o cruises’ iona.

L aunched this summer, Iona is the biggest ship built for the British market, carrying 5,200 passengers. With 30 bars and restaurants, a gin distillery, lavish entertainment and four pools, there’s no shortage of distractions. But what’s the ship really like?

Main photo: the Iona visits… Iona (Christopher Ison)

The Grand Atrium is the heart of the ship, walls of glass on both sides spanning three decks, with a white marble staircase sweeping dramatically into the centre. Cabins, inspired by the colours of the sea, are done out in soothing shades of sand, stone and white, with accents of gold and navy, while a multimillion-pound collection of 4,600 pieces of contemporary British art also takes inspiration from nature and the ocean.

More than half the 2,614 cabins come with a private balcony. A first for P&O Cruises on Iona are the 95 conservatory mini suites, spacious doubles with a deep balcony and a glass-enclosed sitting area that should come into its own when the ship is cruising the Norwegian fjords, her summer home. Solo travellers should book early for the 22 single-occupancy cabins, which are likely to be snapped up fast.

Food and drink

Four main dining rooms and various casual outlets are included in the price. Of the main dining rooms, Coral and Pearl are nicest, with dreamy views of the ship’s wake. Of the specialty restaurants, which carry an extra charge, we liked the new Keel and Cow, a gastropub with a steak-heavy menu. Mains here cost from £5.50 and the giant, 8oz Prime Minister burger, which P&O claims is the best at sea, £8.50.

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Epicurean is worth every penny of the £28 supplement, with delicate presentation and intense flavours in the British and Norwegian-inspired offerings, while the Glass House, with wines by the glass selected by Olly Smith, does decent tapas, with a new menu by José Pizarro coming when the ship sails to Spain in winter. The Limelight Club costs £25 for a classy, three-course set menu with top-notch cabaret entertainment — the drag artist La Voix was in residence on our cruise. Sindhu, the upmarket Indian restaurant, was disappointing compared with previous cruises, while the new, Mediterranean-themed Olive Grove was decidedly average.

Bar service needs to improve. Several of the bars, including P&O Cruises’ trademark Crow’s Nest, have a set cocktail menu, from which you can’t deviate. So we couldn’t, for example, order a pre-dinner martini there, which seems absurd.

Entertainment

In the evenings the ship comes alive with music. DJ sets and dramatic aerial shows in the two-deck SkyDome — a vast dome over a pool with a retractable stage — attract big audiences, as does Festival, a feel-good, high-energy show in the theatre. While dancing isn’t allowed yet because of Covid restrictions, we loved the silent disco held one night by the infinity pool, under a new moon. The star attraction, though, is the dark, intimate 710 Club, overseen by Gary Barlow, with cocktails, talented young musicians and often 30-minute queues to get in.

The kids’ clubs — split into five age groups from six months to late teens — are superbly equipped and there’s a night nursery for parents who want to leave their children supervised and have a night out , as it were. Distractions for adults include deck games, the Oasis Spa, a large and somewhat underused gym, and four pools, including two infinity pools on the cascading aft decks and 18 whirlpools, six of them set into the side of the ship, with glass walls. There are quizzes in Brodie’s, the ship’s pub, and talks in the theatre during the day, and a cute, four-screen cinema with a daily changing programme. Iona has its own gin distillery, in association with Salcombe Distilling Co, with tastings and blending masterclasses to be introduced in the coming months; the Marabelle gin made on board, exclusively for P&O Cruises, is exceptional.

Eco-credentials

While Iona is enormous, it’s the first ship in the P&O Cruises fleet to run on liquefied natural gas, which means it has zero sulphur and nitrogen emissions and produces 20 per cent less carbon than ships running on marine diesel.

Cruising area

Iona will sail from its home port of Southampton to the Norwegian fjords all summer, starting in 2022, with voyages to the Canary Islands in winter.

Cruise news

Want to stay up to date with the latest developments in the cruise industry? Cruise Editor Sue Bryant writes a regular column for Times Travel rounding up all the essential news, from new ships to the best itineraries. Read Sue’s latest piece here.

Take me there

Inspired to book a cruise but yet to book your trip? Here are the best P&O options from Imagine Cruising* . And if you’re still unsure of where you want to go or what type of holiday to book, get in touch here and one of the Designer Travel experts will be in contact to help you arrange your perfect tailor-made break.

Here’s a selection of some of the best Cruis e tours* from our Times Travel partners.

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P&O Iona Cruise Photo Review – Ship, Food, Entertainment, and More

When P&O Cruises first announced that they would be launching a cruise ship called Iona, she was promised to be the ‘start of a new era in travel’. 

She cost £700 million pounds to build and expectations were definitely high.

P&O Cruises have been sailing since the 1970s, Iona was designed to be dramatically different from anything P&O had done before.

Building Iona was a bold and brave choice for P&O but what I wanted to know was, did the risk pay off?

I’ve just disembarked a week-long cruise on Iona and although I thought I knew P&O cruises pretty well before the cruise, this cruise showed me things I’d never have expected from P&O. 

Iona Was Meant to Launch in 2020

Iona had just been built and was completing her sea trial tests in March of 2020. Not the best timing in hindsight but that was just bad luck. 

She was delivered to P&O in October of 2020 and at this point, we still hoped that the pandemic would be over soon so that cruising would resume but it wasn’t until August of 2021 that Iona finally completed her maiden voyage. 

Anticipation for the ship had been building up over this time and there was definitely some level of anxiety about the changes that P&O were making compared to their traditional cruising history.

On one hand, we had families and younger people very excited to try Iona’s more flexible approach to cruising and on the other, we had traditional P&O cruisers who had been loyal to the brand for years, wondering if they would enjoy a cruise on a Megaship like Iona.  

Why Did I Book a Cruise on Iona?

I was originally meant to cruise on Iona in January of 2021 and I was gutted when that didn’t happen. I knew that I had to get on board the ship to try her for myself, so I booked a very cheap week-long cruise to Northern Europe.

I booked the cruise with my brother and we paid £439 ($600) each for the 7-night cruise including gratuities. 

For that price, I didn’t go into this cruise with huge expectations.

A number of my friends and fellow YouTubers had been on Iona before me and I had seen mixed reviews about the ship and cruises online but I knew I had to try it for myself.

Most cruise ships do have a few issues when they first launch.

Embarkation Was Easy, Despite The Paperwork

The embarkation process was very easy, we went through a drive-through Covid testing centre at Southampton port, waited a while for our car parking and for our Covid results, and then when we had our negative results, we went into the cruise terminal. 

Like most cruises at the moment, we did need quite a bit of paperwork to embark, I had been in Spain the week before and when I told the lady at check-in this she looked concerned and said that she would have to speak to a manager.

I’d read P&O’s terms and conditions inside out to make sure that it was okay for me to board but I was still nervous while I stood there, until I stepped onto the ship I didn’t let myself get too excited.

The manager came over to us and we explained where we had been and that we had had a PCR test since getting back to the UK.

It was okay and we did get our ‘OK to board’ stamp but those few seconds were tense. 

When We First Embarked Things Were a Little Different

Normally when you embark on a cruise ship you just wander off and do whatever you’d like to do, for most people they’ll either head to their cabin or to get a drink or food depending on the time of day. 

Our boarding time wasn’t until after 3 pm and when we embarked Iona things were a little different, we weren’t given our cruise cards before we embarking the ship and we were sent straight to our muster station with a piece of paper to have our QR code scanned.

Our Muster Drill was ‘Virtual’

It’s a legal requirement that everybody embarking on a cruise ship has a safety drill and pre-Covid, this usually meant watching safety videos at what is called your muster station.

Believe it or not, we did all used to stand together in big groups, sometimes out on the promenade deck. 

Due to social distancing, this is no longer the case and you usually visit your muster station, then watch the videos in your cabin. This is what happened on our P&O cruise.

To learn more about how muster drills work now, check out this post: Muster Drills Have Changed For The Better (REVIEW of New After Covid Process)

After scanning our QR code we began the long walk to our cabin.

How Big is P&O’s Iona?

Iona is a big ship and I did know that before I booked the cruise, I don’t think until you’re really on board though, it’s possible to get an idea of scale. 

The last couple of cruises I’ve been on have been on ships half the size of Iona and until I was walking down the corridor to get to my cabin, I didn’t truly appreciate how huge Iona is.

For those who know about tonnage, she’s roughly 180,000 gross tons and that means she can hold over 5200 passengers at a time with 1700 crew members. 

She’s around 4x the size of the Titanic. To learn how other modern cruise ships compare to Titanic, check out this post: Titanic vs a Modern Cruise Ship Fleet – Comparison with Photos!

Iona is designed with her size in mind meaning that there are LOTS of maps around and signs.

They also have a cool feature where the colour of the artwork on the stairs tells you where you are. These were blue at the front of the ship, grey in the middle, and red at the back.

That’s the kind of detail I like on a ship, and it makes a big difference to me, I have no sense of direction. 

We Booked The Cheapest Cabin Available

We booked the cheapest cabin available which is a guaranteed inside cabin, this meant that we didn’t pick our cabin location and it was assigned to us.

Our cabin was cabin 11115 and it was right at the back of the ship. As in, there were no inside cabins further back than us. 

I loved having the cabin number 11115 as it was really easy to remember our room number, we did have to tell it to quite a lot of people on the cruise, when checking in for shows or meals, but more about how that works later.

Being at the back was also great for me because that was where the buffet was.

I’m a firm believer in the idea that you don’t need to spend a lot of money on your cabin to enjoy a cruise. I hate the idea that somebody might be put off of trying a cruise because they feel as though they ‘need’ the money for a balcony. Inside cabins are totally fine. 

Our Cruise Cards Were Left Outside Our Cabin

Our cruise cards were in an envelope outside of our cabin door and there are a few cruise lines that do embarkation like this.

I often hear the argument ‘what if somebody takes the card and gets into your room’. Well if they did before I got there then they’ll just be in an empty room, so not sure why they’d want to do that. If they’re on the cruise, they have their own room. 

Our inside cabin was great and we were very comfortable here for the week.

P&O Clean The Cabins Once Per Day

We watched the safety drill videos on our TV and our room steward introduced herself to us. She explained that our room would only be cleaned once a day instead of the two times a day that P&O used to offer. 

To be honest that suited me perfectly.

I try to keep my cabin as tidy as possible and apart from needing extra towels occasionally or needing more toilet rolls I really don’t need my room serviced twice per day.

I usually feel bad that the cabin steward has made my bed in the morning, I’ve climbed in there again in the afternoon and then they make it again in the evening, so at least I didn’t have to worry about that. 

Our First Exploration of The Ship Was Exciting

After completing our muster drill we went to explore the ship.

Personally, this is probably my favourite part of a cruise, the part where you run around the ship excitedly just trying to take everything in. It can feel a little overwhelming, especially on a big ship like Iona but that’s part of the fun for me. 

First, we went straight to Iona’s SkyDome.

The SkyDome is the thing that sets Iona apart from other cruise ships and although there is a swimming pool in the dome, the space was used for so much more than swimming.

Iona is Great For Swimming!

Iona has 4 swimming pools and 16 whirlpools with what felt like thousands of seats outside. 

Iona is one of the very few cruise ships that is designed with cold weather in mind. There is still plenty of seating outside, but even if that isn’t being used, there are inside alternatives for everybody.

Most weren’t used during our cruise because it was pretty chilly but the sun did come out at one point and everybody flocked to the sunny side of the ship.

If you’re from somewhere cold you’ll know what it’s like to need to soak up the sunshine as soon as it appears. 

Our cruise was sailing at a little over 65% capacity and only time will tell how she will feel at 100% capacity. I am going to get the chance to find out though, more about that later. 

Iona also has a 4 screen cinema!

What Was The SkyDome Used For? – Taste 360 Review

The SkyDome is used as a pool in the day and you’ll find bars here too with a place to grab food called Taste 360.

Taste 360 serves your typical poolside grill type of food, pizza, burgers, chips, that kind of thing.

They also have veggie burgers which was great for me and everything was always freshly cooked so it was really hot and tasty.

I hoped that the food on the rest of the ship would live up to the quality of the poolside grill!

Those chips were perfect. 

Whenever we sat here, we would have a waiter with us within minutes to get us a drink and we always found the service to be great. Helped I’m sure by the reduced capacity. 

After a while, our minds started to turn to dinner, as they often do!

We Had to Book Most Things on P&O’s App

Speaking to other people on the cruise, one thing that seemed to divide opinions was how almost all of the restaurants had to be booked in advance on the app.

This wasn’t a problem for us at all, but I know how some people don’t like to use their phones when cruising.

I like to eat early, around 6pm and this definitely helped me to be able to book the restaurants I wanted on the days that I wanted. If you were cruising as a larger group, or wanted to eat later in the evening, it may be tricker to get bookings.

With over 3000 people on our cruise though, I understood the need for the booking of the restaurants.

It’s just something to keep in mind. The booking of restaurants isn’t so much of a ‘P&O thing’ as it is a ‘large ship thing’.

Lots of ‘mega ships’ of this size require bookings to be made ahead of time. 

There are LOTS of Included Dining Options

We tried our best to try as many restaurants on board as we could.

Iona has 3 ‘main’ restaurants where bookings ahead of time weren’t required. Instead of going to the restaurant and standing in the queue to get a table you could instead join the ‘virtual queue’ on your phone.

You’d tell it how many people you wanted a table for and if you needed a wheelchair space, you’d then have to keep your phone on that page and it would tell you when your table was ready. 

We never had to wait more than 5 minutes for our table to be ready and then at that point they would hold the table for 15 minutes.

We would be getting ready for dinner in the cabin, join the virtual queue and then just head to the restaurant when it was ready which was great. 

I’ve got to be honest I did find the dining options and having to book/virtual queue for things a little overwhelming when I first got on board.

I’ve cruised a lot so I had some idea of how cruise ship dining worked but if you were new to cruise, or somebody who was used to cruising with a fixed table and dining time each night, it could get confusing and you could end up missing things.

P&O did have lots of information in the cabins about how everything worked onboard but I’m definitely one of those people who just tries things and works things out as I go.

An overwhelming amount of choice is somethings just something that comes with cruising on such a big ship.

P&O’s App Worked Well But Had a Few Features Missing

P&O cruises app wasn’t really an app that you have to download to your phone it’s more just a webpage that you have to load.

To use the app you have to be connected to the WiFi but don’t have to pay to use the WiFi in order to use the app. You’ve just got to be connected so that the ship can send you the information.

Overall it worked pretty well but did miss a few key things like the opening times of restaurants and the daily schedule.

Theatre Shows Also Had to be Booked

It wasn’t just the dining options that had to be booked ahead of time, all theatre shows did too.

Capacity in the theatres was reduced slightly for social distancing and we had to wear masks while watching the show. No drinks were allowed in the theatre at any point.

My last cruise was with Marella where they hand you a drink as you walk into the theatre so that did take a little getting used to, but not the end of the world. 

I booked the main couple of theatre shows before we embarked the cruise, if you are travelling as part of a big group it might be worth doing this.

Each show was on 3x a night and most shows would be repeated two days in a row. I’m not exactly sure on the capacity of the theatre but it was quite big, that said with 5200 potential guests they need to make sure that everybody has a chance to see every show. 

Sometimes we would just book the shows 10 or so minutes before we went to the theatre which usually worked.

On one evening we wanted to see the 8.30 show but it was sold out so I booked the later show.

It got to around 8 pm, we were in a lounge and we were in the theatre mood so I decided to try and cancel my later booking and book the earlier show hoping that somebody had cancelled since I first tried.

When I asked my brother if I should try he said ‘well you can…’ clearly not thinking it would work. But it did! 

You can cancel and book the theatre shows at any time if you decide you don’t want to go or your plans change.

I assume that at some point before the show they release the spaces of those that haven’t shown up and let in people without a booking. 

The Theatre Shows Were Great

When we were on board Iona there were two main theatre shows, Festivals and Centre Stage.

The team of dancers and singers were amazing and both shows were great. P&O made good use of the theatre space and I enjoyed the shows a lot. I’m a very visual person

I like to see bright colours and costume changes and Iona’s shows had a lot of that, plus songs I liked and knew! 

We also watched a comedian in the theatre and went to a couple of presentations about satellites and space, both very interesting! 

I usually like to go to the theatre each evening but because Iona is large and the shows are repeated two days in a row this isn’t really how a typical day onboard ended up working for us.

What was great was that there were also shows held in the SkyDome. These would be acrobatic shows and the dome made the most amazing setting.

The SkyDome Was a Popular Evening Venue With Incredible Shows

The dome had lights on it, lasers, smoke, you name it.

Most nights we would either go to the theatre, or we would go and see the dome show. They would also have live music in the dome, like the brilliant band She or the equally brilliant house band called Pulse.

We listened to a rock music show amongst a few other things.

For the main acrobatic dome shows it was pretty tricky to get a seat if you arrived with less than about 20 minutes to spare.

We usually just stood which was totally fine, the shows weren’t long, but if you do need a seat, get there early. 

There was lots and lots and lots of live music around the ship with each show being repeated multiple times.

Covid rules meant that nobody could dance on the dancefloor but they could dance by their seats on the carpet, and they did!

Mask Wearing Was Compulsory if Singing Karaoke!

We went to karaoke one night and the person singing had to wear a mask which I thought was a little odd.

Masks have to be worn when walking around but not when seated in a restaurant or bar so nobody in the audience was wearing a mask and we were all singing along too.

The singers did a great job singing through their masks though and I guess it’s just to prevent spray singing? You’d have thought they could just put them behind a screen though or disinfect the microphone.

Oh well, it was good fun anyway. 

Our Itinerary Changed – As They Often Do

When I booked our cruise we were meant to be visiting Hamburg, Rotterdam and Bruges.

It was a week before the cruise that I got the email saying that Hamburg has been replaced with Le Havre. For those of you who don’t know, Le Havre is the port that’s usually referred to as the ‘gateway to Paris’ even though it’s usually a 3-hour drive away. 

It was actually my agent, also called Emma who told me about the change before P&O did and although I was looking forward to going to Hamburg as I’ve never been, that wasn’t the end of the world for me.

I was mostly looking forward to cruising on Iona. 

If you’d like to book a cruise through me, and my fabulous agent Emna, you can do so by filling out our booking form here: Book a Cruise .

We Didn’t Take Cruise Line Excursions

In Bruges and Rotterdam, we created our own walking tours, stopping off at the places that looked interesting like the cube houses in Rotterdam and the quaint little streets of Bruges.

It’s really easy to wander around Bruges and Rotterdam and our main priority was just trying to walk when it wasn’t raining. We did 20k+ steps per day and really enjoyed it.

I even found the world’s biggest Pepsi Max which is my favourite drink. 

I didn’t know what we would do in the port is Le Havre though, I definitely wasn’t going to spend 3 hours each way on a bus to Paris. I’ve been to Paris so I knew I’d stay close by. 

We Spent a Lot of Time in The Main Atrium

After walking 20k+ steps in port whenever I came back into the ship I would be desperate for a drink.

The main atrium area of Iona is this huge area that is split over multiple levels with two staircases in the middle.

The glass windows are on both sides and we spent quite a lot of time here with a drink just sitting and watching the world go by. 

P&O’s Drinks Packages Aren’t Great Value (For Most People)

I have to say, I think P&O have some of the worst value drinks packages on the market and for most people, it makes more sense to pay as you go.

That said the prices on board were really pretty good, a Pepsi cost less than it does in my local pub. Not only that but it was proper Pepsi and as the waiters always asked if we wanted ice, we always said no.

Here in the UK, it isn’t the default to always get lots of ice in a drink in the way that it seems to be in the US and other countries.

It was pretty cold on this cruise away and the way I see it, if I’m paying for a glass I’d much prefer it to be full of Pepsi than half full of ice which just hits me on the nose and gets annoying.

Don’t get me wrong, if I’m cruising on the Caribbean the ice is much appreciated but on a northern Europe cruise in October, no thanks! Let me know if you’re on team ice, or team no ice in the comments.

They did have both Pepsi and coke to keep everybody happy. 

Also in the atrium, there is a Costa Coffee and a restaurant called the Keel and Cow which does cost extra. 

The Main Dining Rooms and Buffet Weren’t The Only Included Dining Venues

As far as included food goes though, even on our 7-night cruise, we could have eaten in a different place every night without paying anything extra.

There are LOTS of included food restaurants.

P&O Iona’s Buffet Was Open a LOT and Served Great Food

The first and the biggest is the buffet, the buffet was open from way before I got up until 1 am in the morning and would only be closed for a few hours in between.

Lots of cruise ship buffets have long opening hours but P&O’s are extra good. The late-night snacks and late-night chocolate cake were AMAZING. 

In the buffet I found the BEST Yorkshire puddings and lots and lots of roast potatoes. I couldn’t fault anything with any food item in the buffet, it was brilliant.

They even have veggie sausages for breakfast and vegan desserts! Woohoo. 10/10 from me. 

There’s also tea and coffee available in the buffet all the time that it’s open at no extra charge.

P&O Provide Kettles in The Cabins!

Every cabin does come with a kettle and as I usually drink peppermint tea I took a few peppermint tea bags back to my room so that I could have tea in the mornings. 

As well as having a kettle in your cabin we would also find little biscuits delivered each day.

The Quays was a Great Additional Dining Venue

An extra addition that most other cruise ships don’t have is a food court called the Quays.

This is kind of like an extra buffet but everything is made to order. We came here for pancakes for breakfast and burgers in the evenings.

This area did remind me of the food court ‘galley’ that Virgin Voyages have on their cruise ships that they are so keen to not call a buffet. 

The Quays is located in the middle of the ship by the atrium and they even have a ketchup station here. I put ketchup on almost everything so this was great. 

Afternoon Tea is Served in One of The 4 Main Restaurants

P&O have 4 ‘main dining’ rooms as I mentioned earlier and as far as I can tell they all served the same menu which changed each night.

There are two main dining rooms at the back of the ship which I loved and also two on the sides. We only went into the restaurants on the sides for afternoon tea in true British style. 

Afternoon tea was a little strange because you didn’t order any food like you usually would, you still got food of course but it would just arrive.

This meant that anything we didn’t eat would be thrown away which seemed like a waste but really it would just be mushed up and released as fish food so any cakes I didn’t eat were just dessert for a lucky fish. 

P&O Are Great For Vegetarians and Vegans

The food in the main dining rooms was always good and there were lots of vegetarian options.

P&O are one of the best cruise lines I’ve found when it comes to vegan dining with a vegan starter, main and dessert on every menu. 

The Dress Code on P&O Cruises is Quite Strict

P&O have fairly strict dress codes compared to some other cruise lines but the dress codes mostly apply to the main dining room.

On ‘formal’ night called celebration night, most men wore a suit or at least a shirt and tie, you could probably get away with just a shirt though, maybe.

On non-formal nights the dress code is casual but you’re not meant to wear trainers, hoodies or light jeans in the dining room. 

In reality, as long as you don’t look scruffy and don’t have big logos all over your clothes I don’t think anybody would mind.

If you do want to dress up though and have a prom dress or bridesmaids dress you’d like to wear you won’t feel out of place on a P&O cruise, some people went all out and looked lovely having photos taken in the main atrium. 

There Were no Photographers Onboard

Interestingly there weren’t any cruise line photographers onboard for ‘Covid reasons’.

Not too sure why Covid means P&O can’t have photographers as most other cruise lines have managed it since but it doesn’t bother me, I quite liked the prime photo spots not being taken up by photographers.

We ate in The Beach House and Olive Grove Restaurants

There’s also the Beach House and Olive Grove restaurants which are both included in our cruise fare on Iona.

Both have to be booked in advance and made sure we went to both.

The beach house served south American food and it usually costs extra on other ships but was free on Iona for our cruise, I suspect it will cost extra on Iona soon though, but it was never very expensive.

The Olive Grove restaurant is Mediterranean. I had a pizza in the Olive Grove which wasn’t Princess cruises Alfredo’s standard, but all in all the food was really good. 

I Had a Decision to Make

As the cruise went on I was thinking more about the price I’d paid and the experience I was having.

I knew that I had other family members that I’d left at home that would enjoy the cruise so I did start a bit of cruise planning, while on the cruise.

Something I’ve never done before. 

In Le Havre we Saw a Boat Show (By Accident)

When we visited Le Havre we were treated to what I can only describe as a boat show, but by accident.

We planned to walk into Le Havre just really to get some fresh air and stretch our legs but when we got to the main bridge the road was closed. The bridge was open to let in boats and we sat there for about 45 minutes, with other passengers, waiting for the boats to go by so that we could go over the bridge.

It turns out that a big boat race was due to leave Le Havre the next day so there were TV crews there and all kinds of people.

It was pretty cool to see but not what I had planned when I got off the ship.

We did have sunshine in Le Havre though which was amazing. We spent the rest of the day having drinks by the pool or wandering around the promenade deck.

Iona has a LOT of promenade deck space with infinity whirlpools and other things. 

P&O’s Iona Has Some STRANGE Cabins on The Promenade Deck

It’s here on the promenade deck that you’ll find a group of balcony cabins with a very strange design.

The balcony cabins sit just above the promenade deck so when sitting out on your balcony you’d almost be sitting with the people on the promenade deck.

You’re also a long long way from the edge of the ship and when walking by you can see into these cabins quite easily, not sure who designed these cabins but I would try to avoid them if cruising on Iona. Very strange!

The Ship Felt Clean and Modern

The non-restaurant areas on the ship were also lovely.

My brother described the aesthetic as being that of a ‘nice hotel’ and I think I agree. There was lots of marble, sparkles, and clean lines which I liked.

There were lots of nice little touches like cushions and fabrics which made the ship feel quite expensive. 

We Visited The Pub Most Days

Even the pub was nice and we did trivia in here most days. It definitely had some sort of nice Wetherspoons vibes, but without the stickiness, you usually get in Wetherspoons. 

It was great for me that the trivia was so British, I often get confused on American cruise lines as the questions are very US-based but on Iona, there was even a question about Coronation Street! 

Can You Book a P&O Cruise From Outside The UK?

Guests from outside the UK can and do cruise with P&O and the easiest way seems to be to book through VacationsToGo.

My friends Sean and Stef came over to the UK a few years ago and took two P&O cruises which they loved. It was so funny for me to watch my American friends discover British things on their P&O cruise. You can watch videos of their P&O cruises on their channel here: Sean and Stef IRL

I Rebooked Iona, while Onboard

When onboard I actually booked another cruise on Iona and I really think that is the highest praise I can give to a ship.

Not only because I’ve booked it again but also because I’m going to be bringing 8 family members with me including my 2 nieces who haven’t ever cruised before.

For 2 adults and 2 children in a balcony for a week was only £1500 ($2000) and for me in my inside cabin was only £385 ($525). It’s impossible to argue with that price, it includes gratuities too! 

I only hope that Iona lives up to what I’ve promised and that the increase in capacity won’t change things too much. 

The cruises sails from my local port which makes everything a lot easier, my last cruise was a fly cruise, and as amazing as it was to get out of the UK, it wasn’t without it’s problems.

To find why I nearly got stranded in Spain and how that cruise went, check out this video next. 

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P&o cruises’ iona inside cabin review.

Discover all you need to know about inside cabins on P&O’s Iona so you can decide if they are the cabin style for you.

I spent a week on P&O Cruises’ Iona in an inside cabin. It was a last-minute trip, a combination of having some unexpected time on my hands and being tipped off about some great fares with no solo supplement.

The Itinerary was Northern Europe with ports of call of Zeebrugge , Rotterdam and Le Havre . Well until the weather scuppered that but that’s a story for another time.

Being a last-minute trip and the itinerary not really calling for a balcony, I decided to book the cheapest cabin available. This was a standard inside cabin with the grade guaranteed but not the location.

Despite cruising solo, it was actually cheaper to book this cabin at single occupancy than an actual dedicated solo cabin. As the fare didn’t allow me to select a cabin, I was at P&O’s mercy but I stuck lucky and was allocated a great cabin.

In this post, I share an overview so you know what to expect if you are considering booking an Iona inside cabin.

Location of the inside cabins on Iona

There are 811 inside cabins on Iona. Standard cabins are located on all cabin decks while larger ones are on decks 4,5,9,11 & 14. You can view the Iona deck plans to see exactly where they are located.

I was allocated cabin 9504 which was located midship on deck 9. I was a little worried when I first saw as it was tucked behind the lifts but it ended up being a brilliant location. It was very quiet, with no noise from the lifts and few people walking past.

All the facilities on deck 8 were just one flight of stairs down so it was very easy to get to The Quays for breakfast or a cuppa. With the lifts just around the corner it didn’t take more than a few minutes to reach the upper decks. I honestly couldn’t fault the location at all.

Related post | Selecting a cruise cabin can be a difficult decision which can make or break you holiday. View my guide to cabins to avoid on Iona for all the information you need to make the right cabin choice for you.

Cabin Review

Cabin layout

Most cruise ships cabins are a usually a rectangle shape, however, the cabin I was allocated was square-shaped. This gave it a slightly more spacious feel despite the huge bed taking most of the space.

Walking into the room there was a wardrobe immediately to the left & four coat hooks on the wall to the right. The wardrobe is a good size with plenty of hangers and a full length mirror on one of the doors. A shelf at the top is where the life jackets are stored. In the cabin I was in, they took up just over half the shelf so there was a little space there for use too.

I’ve read some comments that the wardrobes are not tall enough to hold long dresses. So, if packing for a summer cruise or taking long dresses for the evening it’s worth bearing that in mind.

Tip: Use the hooks on the opposite wall for long items of clothing such as evening dresses or bring you own hooks that you can place higher up.

On one side of the bed is a small bedside table and on the other is a cupboard. There is a little insert in the side of the cupboard with a plug socket and small ledge. So although there is no bedside table, there is space for items such as a glass of water or your phone. I found this worked really well.

There are built in lamps on either side of the bed which also have a USB port underneath. Though they are easily missed, I only found out about them when I returned home. So don’t make the same mistake as I did.

The cupboard has six deep shelves and I could comfortably store my packing cubes on them, with room to spare. There was a safe on the middle shelf which my 12″ MacBook just about fitted into. Items such as passports, money or iPads and iPhones fit in quite easily.

At the end of the bed was a sofa and a unit with a fridge, tea and coffee making facilities (with plenty of teabags!) and some more storage shelves. You could store drinks or snacks that you may have brought onboard here.

On the wall to the right was a huge TV which folded out so you could angle it depending on if you were watching TV in bed or on the sofa.

The only thing missing was a desk/dressing table. This didn’t really bother me too much, I use the bathroom when putting my makeup on so the table usually just becomes a dumping ground. However, if you do like to use a dressing table (or desk) then it’s best to avoid these cabins .

The bathroom was a good size. Light and bright with warm wood panelling, it felt comfortable despite being small. With three shelves next to the mirror and some more space under the sink there was a lot of storage space for toiletries and make-up.

The shower was compact but had good water pressure and heated up quickly. Shower gel and shampoo by The White Company was in a dispenser on the shower wall. There also two trays where you could store your own toiletries.

Related posts | Looking for more P&O Iona reviews? Read my review of a balcony cabin on deck 5 or my Norwegian Fjords cruise review .

What amenities are included in Iona’s cabins?

• Air conditioning
• Complimentary toiletries
• Safe (can hold a laptop up to 17″)
• Tea & Coffee making facilities (including biscuits!)

Things to know when cruising with P&O on Iona

Do cabins on iona have fridges.

Yes, Iona’s cabins do have fridges. You can store any alcohol or soft drinks you may bring onboard with you. I also used it for storing milk brought back from the buffet so I could use it for a morning cuppa.

Do P&O cabins have kettles?

Of course, it’s a British cruise line! There are also large cups for each person in the cabin, tea bags, coffee sachets and milk and sugar. Milk is in the little cartons so if you prefer fresh milk, you can bring some back to your cabin from the Horizon Restaurant.

Do I need to take towels on a P&O Cruise?

No you do not as towels are provided. There should be enough towels for each person in your cabin. If you are by the pool, you can grab a towel by the towel station.

Tip: The pool towels also make quite good blankets if you are cold sitting out on deck

Do P&O cabins have irons?

No they don’t but there are irons and ironing boards in the laundry rooms which you can use free of charge.

What toiletries are provided on P&O Cruises?

All cabin bathrooms have liquid soap, body wash and shampoo by The White Company.

Is water free on P&O cruises?

On arrival there will be a free can of water for each person in your cabin. You can get free water from the buffet and there are water stations around the ship where you can refill your water bottle.

Related Post | Looking for some Iona cruise ship reviews? Find what it is like to cruise the Norwegian Fjords on Iona .

The Last Word

Overall I found the cabin very comfortable and would have no worries about staying in it again. I’d say it was possibly one of the best inside cabins on Iona and if I ever sail on her in the future & want an inside cabin I’d book this one. I absolutely loved it.

The location was perfect, with easy access to all the facilities. Nothing felt too far away. While the lifts were just a few seconds away, it was still really quiet. I hardly heard a noise the whole week.

Being on my own, it’s probably too easy to say there was more than enough storage. However, even if you share with someone unless you are both over packers I think there is probably plenty of room for your clothes and accessories.

Perhaps another cupboard on the other side of the bed with more shelves or a taller space to hang longer items of clothing would be good but that’s definitely not a deal-breaker.

Inside cabins can sometimes get a bit of a bad reputation but these inside cabins are really comfortable. I didn’t actually want to leave at the end of the week and would have no hesitation staying in one again.

So, if you are looking to save some money or just prefer to spend your time exploring the ship rather than being in your cabin a lot, then Iona’s inside cabins are well worth considering.

You may also like…

• Iona dining guide
• Iona bar guide
• Iona balcony cabin review (deck five)
• Iona cabins to avoid
• Cruising the Norwegian Fjords on Iona

24 thoughts on “ P&O Cruises’ Iona Inside Cabin Review ”

Thanks for your detailed info , first time with P&O Iona , deck 1126 looking forward to our cruise in April

Thanks Chris, hope it helps. Enjoy your cruise.

Hi I am about to book an inside cabin on deck 4 of iona for 2 week canaries cruise. Im a little worried as first time cruiser and not sure whether deck 4 is a good level as very low. Any adivce would be appreciated.

Hi Anita I think deck 4 would be ok, especially for an inside. You will only be two floors below deck 6 which is where a lot of the inside facilities are. Also, you’ll be able to get a lift easily I suspect so that would make it easy to get up to the top decks. If you are on Facebook there are a few cabin review groups. If you have a cabin number in mind you can do a search and might be able to see some pictures and reviews. I stayed on deck 5 and really liked, it was a great location so think deck 4 would be similar. Enjoy your cruise.

We are going on the Iona next week for 2 weeks, was mine and my husbands birthday last week he was 80 so a special birthday, also will be our Anniversary on the 27 th so a great couple of weeks for us, I would have loved a balcony cabin for him but couldn’t possibly afford it, I am sure we will still enjoy our inside cabin, I can’t wait until Saturday x

Hi Marie, Happy Birthday & Happy Anniversary to you and your husband. What a great way to celebrate. Hope you enjoy your cruise. I’m sure the inside cabin will be fine. I loved mine earlier this year and wouldn’t hesitate to book an inside one again. Emma

I would never have an Inside cabin ever again. To cram, yes cram, 2 adults and two teenage girls in to an inside cabin is ridiculous. Twin beds with bunk beds and the need to avoid the cat that you couldn’t swing around. I managed to upgrade to a midships balcony cabin which was better but had to pay another £600.00. Money well spent. When you talk about an inside cabin it appears as though you are talking about it being a solo reservation. I can assure you that it is no fun with four people in. Don’t do it!

Hi Cliff, thanks for your comment. Yes, I was travelling solo. I think four people would definitely be too much of a squeeze. Even if you all get on well! Two would be perfect though, three at a push. Hope you had a great cruise, despite the cabin issue. Emma

How would new passengers know about complimentary cans of water, we stayed on deck10 in the front corner,tucked away,the only issue we had was controlling the temperature,yes has air con,but fresh air.

Hi Colin, yes, I think they could perhaps make it a bit clearer that the cans are complimentary and that are the only ones you are getting. Hope you enjoyed your cruise. Emma

Hi, my daughter and I recently stayed in Cabin 5504 which was great. We have booked up again for next year and were immediately allocated Deck 15 and then chose cabin 15231. However, I am starting to regret it as it is high up and at the front. Can you recommend a deck where the midship is quite and not affected by noise or smoking areas?

Hi Sue, it looks surrounded by other cabins so might not be too bad. There are a couple of Facebook groups dedicated to Iona cabins (with reviews and photos). Have a search for those and you’ll probably find a review of the cabin you picked or at least someone who has stayed in that area. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

I stayed in 15214, Norwegian Fjords 1st week in Aug, great room with no noise or movement of ship felt, room above and below

Hi Harry, thanks for your comment. Great to hear you liked your cabin too. Emma

You mention a plug socket, is it just one and is it the UK 3 pin type?

Hi, Thanks for your comment. From memory, there was one by the side of the bed in the cut out. A few more dotted about the room. Yes, was the UK 3 pin type. Thanks Emma

What’s name of the white company shower gel on the p&o ship cruise Iona 2022

Hi Jane, it’s Jasmine, Rose & Neroli. Smells lovely doesn’t it? Emma

Hi, we have booked an inside cabin on Arvia the sister ship to Iona , I went on an inside cabin on ocean Village and didn’t like it , it was very dark inside , can you please tell me if the lighting inside the cabin is really good thankyou x

Hi Linda, thanks for your comment. I thought the lighting was good. As well as the main lights you have two lights either side of the bed so when they are all on it was quite bright. Not the same as having some daylight but I didn’t feel it was dark. Enjoy your cruise.

Where do you put your suitcases. There are two of us and going for 16days so cases will be quite large

Hi Dave, there is space under the bed. I’ve just got off Iona a few days ago and took a deeper case this time and that fitted under the bed with no problem.

Thank you for your information. When I get the courage to travel alone for the first time in over fifty years, I will be thinking of your excellent cruise.

Hi Barbara Thanks for your kind comment. I hope you get to travel soon, once you get out there it will be fine. It’s usually the first step that is the hardest. A cruise is a great way to start as well.

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P&O Cruises Iona – Which Suite is best?

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This article may contain affiliate links. Read my DISCLAIMER page for more disclosure information.

What types of suites are available on P&O Cruises new ship Iona? I’ve broken down each suite for you in this guide, so keep reading to find out which one is best for you. If you’re interested in sailing in a suite aboard P&O cruises – I’ve also created a similar guide for  the best suites on Britannia   and  the best suites on Arvia

Why chose a suite on P&O cruises Iona?

A suite is a great option for families because of the space it offers. The spacious lounge and balcony are perfect for sharing and socialising or for having a cosy night in catching up on some favourite shows or films on the large screen TVs. A suite can also be a perfect romantic getaway for couples too with privacy and added luxurious touches.

What are the different types of suites on P&O Cruises Iona?

According to the P&O deck plan, there are three types of suites on board Iona:

• Family suites
• Conservatory mini suites

However it is worth noting that while conservatory mini suites are referred to in the brochure as ‘suites’, conservatory mini suites don’t seem to come with suite perks, so rest of this post will cover Suites and Family Sea View Suites as these 26, B-grade suites aboard Iona include the standard suite perks.

What are the different B Grade Suites on P&O Cruises Iona?

There are 4 grades of suite aboard Iona: B4, B5, B6 and BA.  However,  I’ve categorised them in to three main groups for the purpose of this post:

• Forward Suites – 12 Suites located at the front of the ship between deck 9 through 15 with steel fronted balconies
• Aft Suites – 12 suites located at the aft of the ship between decks 9 through 15 with glass fronted balconies
• Family Sea View Suites – two family sea view suites located right at the front of the ship with no Balcony

There are no mid-ship B Grade suites aboard Iona. If you would like a mid-ship cabin with suite-level space, then it might be best to opt for a Conservatory Mini Suite instead. It’s a case of personal preference – if you like all the trappings of suite life aboard P&O then you have a combined total of 24 forward or aft options to choose from.

However, if a mid-ship location wins out over suite-level perks, then one of the 95 conservatory mini suites (C-Grade cabins) on decks 8 and 9 might be more for you. Alternatively, the mid ship Deluxe Balcony (E-Grade) cabins could also be another idea for an upgraded mid-ship balcony option. While these two cabin grades offer additional interior and balcony space, you will need to bear in mind that you won’t get all the suite perks of a B grade suite.

But you came here for the suites, didn’t you? – so I’ll continue.

Related post: P&O Cruises Iona – Deck by Deck Restaurant and bar tour

What are the forward suites like on P&O Cruises Iona?

There are 12 forward facing suites aboard Iona. These can be found right at the front of the ship on decks 9-15.

Suites: 15110, 15109, 14112, 14109, 12112, 12111, 11110, 11109, 10110, 10109, 9110 and 9111

In terms of plus-points for these suites, as you’re right at the front of the ship, the Epicurean restaurant is very close by (where breakfast is served, exclusively for suite guests). Another benefit is that to get to these suites, you’re likely to use the mid forward lifts – which tend to be less busy than the mid ship lifts.

These suites are also highly accessible for the Retreat, The Spa and the Crows nest. So if these are your typical preferences to hang out in whilst on ship, these suites will be perfectly located for you.

All suites on Iona have some impressive balcony space which will be fantastic on warmer climate cruises. The forward-facing suites will also provide some awesome panoramic views looking out over the bow when sailing through the Norwegian fjords. I also imagine these will be prime seats to view sail-aways from port with a Captain’s eye view (especially on the deck 15 suite balconies).

A few things to consider when booking forward suites on Iona

Some of the suites (15110 and 15109, and to a lesser extent 14112 and 14109) have a slight overhang from the bridge, so depending on where the ship is pointing in relation to the sun you might find that these suites may be still shaded in the middle of the day. A bit of shade (specifically on the part of the balcony which doesn’t face forward) might be an added bonus for you – it’s all about personal preference, but it’s still good to know before you book.

From the images released so far, suites 9110 and 9111 seem to have slightly different windows and doors than the other forward suites. At this point I am unsure whether there is a significant difference to the internal layout of the suite.

If you’re booking on of these forward suites and travelling with younger kids, it’s worth bearing I mind that there will be quite a walk to the back of the ship for the Reef kids club (on Deck 17). So if you don’t fancy a long walk, then perhaps pick an aft suite instead.

Another thing to note on the forward suite balconies is that when the ship is sailing, these might be somewhat unusable (think: wind chill and free blow dry). So you may wish to factor this into your decision making. If you prefer to spend sea days on your balcony then a more sheltered aft suite might be better.

One thing to consider when choosing forward suites in general is that as you’re right at the front of the ship, you might experience some more movement than mid-ship cabins. In rougher seas this might become more pronounced the higher up you are (suites on deck 15 will be the highest). However Iona is a big ship and has impressive stabilisation technology (I’m sure there’s a more technical term for this) so the movement might not be as pronounced as it is on forward or aft cabins on smaller ships.

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Suites with interconnecting cabins on board P&O Cruises Iona

Here I’ve listed each of the Forward Suites alongside the OA Grade cabin they connect to and how many passengers each OA Grade cabin sleeps:

Click here to view Iona’s deck plan

Suites 14112, 14109, 11110, 11109, 9110 and 9111 are all suites with interconnecting doors which link to a separate inside cabin (larger inside, OA grade cabin). The forward suites are the only suites with interconnecting cabins, neither the aft suites nor the family suites have this option.

While a cabin with an interconnecting door may not be a preference for some, it might be a perfect option for others who wish to travel with an extended family group of up to 8 people. 

What are the aft suites like on P&O Cruises Iona?​

These 12 suites are right at the back of the ship and have wrap-around, glass fronted balconies. They are located on decks 9 through 15 with two suites on each deck. 

Suites: 15732, 15733, 14736, 14735, 12738, 12735, 11740, 11739, 10736, 10739 ,9744 and 9739

Suite 10736 is the only adapted suite on Iona.

In terms of plus points of these suites, the aft balconies wrap around the back of the ship and provide fantastic views and like the forward suites have impressive balcony space. The aft suites also benefit from the soft, calming white noise and views of the ship’s wake. These balconies are also likely to be more sheltered that the forward suite balconies.

Another benefit is that to get to these suites, you’re likely to use the mid aft lifts – which tend to be less busy than the mid ship lifts.

Location-wise, the aft suites are convenient for the Reef (kids clubs) on Deck 17 and the main dining room (decks 6 & 7). These suites are also convenient for the sunset bar and club house, buffet and the infinity pool.

A few things to consider when booking aft suites on Iona

As you’re right at the back of the ship, the Epicurean restaurant (where breakfast is served, exclusively for suite guests) will be quite a walk.

These suites are right at the back of the ship, so similar to the forward suites, you might experience slightly more movement in rougher seas than mid ship cabins and this might be even more pronounced the higher up you go (towards deck 15).

Suites 9744 and 9739 are located directly above the Club House (Iona’s nightclub) and Sunset Bar, so you may hear some late-night noise from this venue in these suites.

Suites 15732 and 15733 tend to be more shaded that other aft suites. So if this is likely to affect your enjoyment of the balcony space then you might wish to choose a suite on one of the lower decks.

Whereas all the forward suites sleep 4 passengers, some of the aft suites do not. Therefore if you are travelling in a group of 4, your aft suite options tend to be limited to 6 suites. I have listed the max occupancy number for each aft suite below.

• Iona Aft Suites which sleep  4 Passengers:  Suites: 14736, 14735, 11740, 11739, 9744 and 9739
• Iona Aft Suites which sleep 3 Passengers:  Suites: 15732, 15733, 12738, 12735, 10736 and 10739

What are the Family Sea View suites like on P&O Cruises Iona?​

There are only two of these suites on ship and these can be found right at the front on Deck 8. As the name suggests, these are sea view suites, so there is no balcony. 

Suites: 8110 and 8109

Basically, these two suites are extremely roomy sea view cabins with suite level perks. They also offer parents travelling with younger children or adventurous toddlers the peace of mind which comes with no balcony. However, if you want a balcony with your suite, you might wish to opt for a different suite.

Another benefit of staying in these suites is that you’re right at the front of the ship, so the Epicurean restaurant (where breakfast is served, exclusively for suite guests) is very close by.

Additionally, to get to these suites, you’re likely to use the mid-forward lifts – which tend to be less busy than the mid-ship lifts.

A few things to consider when booking Family Sea View suites on Iona

While these two suites are marked up as ‘family’ suites, they are probably the two suites farthest away from The Reef kids’ club on board. To get the Reef from these two suites you will need to walk almost the entire length of the ship and take the lift from deck 8 to deck 17. So while this might not be a deal breaker, it’s work knowing in advance.

As mentioned above, these suites do not have a balcony and are sea view only . But one additional thing to consider with regards to their lack of balcony is that from the deck plans and images released so far, these suites seem to be right on the promenade deck.

You may therefore get passers-by right outside your window as it doesn’t look like these cabins are raised up like others on the promenade deck. It might be worth checking this out and seeking further information from your booking agent before committing to these suites if this is likely to pose an issue for you.

Another thing to consider is that family suites do not have a bath. It’s only in the small print on the deck plan that you discover this: 

“All cabins on Iona have shower only apart from Suites – B4, B5 and B6 grades.”

Family Suite Cabins are BA grade so don’t have a bath. This is a strange design feature for families – especially those with younger children. As a parent, I know that a bath is a much easier option than a shower when it comes to an evening routine. So you may wish to pack a small inflatable paddling pool to put in the shower even if you are staying in one of these suites. 

Similar to the other forward suites, as you’re right at the front of the ship, y ou might experience some more movement than mid-ship cabins . However these two suites are on deck 8 so they are quite low down and in fact the lowest suites on the ship in terms of their location, so you are likely to experience the least amount of movement compared to the other forward suites on ship.

One thing to consider in these suites is that you may hear the anchor being dropped early in the morning when in a tender port, but this unlikely to be a frequent occurrence on your cruise.

Additionally as you are right at the front of the ship th ere is quite a walk to the horizon restaurant (buffet style restaurant) and the main dining rooms which are located towards the back of the ship. 

What benefits do you get in a suite on Iona?

 All suites on Iona come with the following P&O suite perks:

• Priority check-in
• Access to an exclusive hospitality lounge with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh pastries while you wait to board
• Priority boarding with Ligurian tier guests
• Exclusive welcome reception, as soon as you board with hot and cold canapés and complimentary alcoholic drinks
• Box of Chocolates
• Fresh Fruit
• Daily canape’s
• Coffee machine
• Breakfast in an exclusive venue
• Inclusive room service
• Butler service
• Superior bathroom with full-size whirlpool bath.
• Luxurious premier White Company toiletries
• Spacious lounge area and separate bedroom
• Priority Tenders (where applicable)
• Priority Disembarkation

More detail about the suite benefits on P&O Cruises in this post

What are the different names of the suites on Iona?

In addition to the cabin number, each of the suites on Iona has a different name (apart from the two family suites)

• Family Suite – Cabin Number: 8109, Location: Forward
• Family Suite – Cabin Number: 8110, Location: Forward
• Adriatic Suite – Cabin Number: 9110, Location: Forward
• Aegean Suite – Cabin Number: 9111, Location: Forward
• Arabian Suite – Cabin Number: 9739, Location: Aft
• Andaman Suite – Cabin Number: 9744, Location: Aft
• Baffin Suite – Cabin Number: 10109 Forward Location: Forward
• Arafura Suite – Cabin Number: 10110, Location: Forward
• Barents Suite – Cabin Number: 10736 (Adapted), Location: Aft
• Beaufort Suite – Cabin Number: 10739, Location: Aft
• Caspian Suite – Cabin Number: 11109, Location: Forward
• Caribbean Suite- Cabin Number: 11110, Location: Forward
• Coral Suite – Cabin Number: 11739, Location: Aft
• Celebes Suite – Cabin Number: 11740, Location: Aft
• Ionian Suite – Cabin Number: 12111, Location: Forward
• Greenland Suite – Cabin Number: 12112, Location: Forward
• Kara Suite – Cabin Number: 12735, Location: Aft
• Java Suite – Cabin Number: 12738, Location: Aft
• Mediterranean Suite – Cabin Number: 14736, Location: Aft
• North Suite – Cabin Number: 14735, Location: Aft
• Ligurian Suite – Cabin Number: 14109, Location: Forward
• Laptev Suite – Cabin Number: 14112, Location: Forward
• Solomon Suite – Cabin Number: 15109, Location: Forward
• Sargasso Suite – Cabin Number: 15110 Location: Forward
• Tasman Suite – Cabin Number: 15732, Location: Aft
• Timor Suite – Cabin Number: 15733, Location: Aft

Many thanks to Andy of  P&O Iona Cabins and Suites Facebook group  for this information

So that’s your breakdown of all the suites aboard Iona. Whatever you choose, she promises to be an exciting and beautiful ship to sail on. The suite décor looks modern, elegant and fresh and airy. 

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Steph is the founder of Cruise with Amber. She been cruising since 2005 and spent over 100 nights at sea. She is a Mum, Wife, Chartered Psychologist, business owner, exceptionally bad surfer, artist and cruise blogger. 

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P&O 1 Week Iona Norwegian Fjords Cruise 2024 (HONEST Review)

Welcome to our honest review of the P&O 1 Week Iona Norwegian Fjords Cruise.

In this article, we review the various aspects of our cruise experience, offering insights and firsthand experiences to help you make an educated decision about your future voyage. From the culinary offerings and accommodations to the onboard entertainment and shore excursions, we provide an unbiased account of what you can expect during your time aboard P&O Iona in 2024.

Let us be your guide as we navigate through the remarkable landscapes, experiences, and memories that await on this incredible journey through the Norwegian Fjords.

Table of Contents

Food: Satisfactory Selection, Familiar Menus

The food onboard the P&O cruise ship provided a satisfactory dining experience, though nothing truly exceptional stood out. It is important to note that four of the restaurants aboard the ship had identical menus, despite their varied settings. Therefore, while you may be seated at different venues throughout the ship, the food options remained the same.

Among the dining options, the Keel & Kow Steakhouse restaurant stood out as our favorite onboard. This restaurant required an additional fee, but the delicious steak offerings made it well worth the extra expense. 

Additionally, the Beachhouse and Olive Grove restaurants were two hidden gems that demanded an extra charge but were undoubtedly worth every penny. The Beachhouse offered a tasty array of American and Caribbean dishes, while the Olive Grove showcased the rich flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. 

While the overall food experience was satisfactory, it would have been more enjoyable to have greater diversity in menu options and unique dining experiences across the ship. Nonetheless, the presence of standout restaurants like the Keel & Kow, Beachhouse, and Olive Grove ensured that culinary delights were never far away for those willing to explore beyond the standard fare.

Rooms: Exceeding Expectations in Comfort and Amenities

The accommodations on the P&O cruise ship were a pleasant surprise, exceeding our expectations. Opting for a standard balcony room provides ample space and comfort.

The rooms were well-equipped, featuring a minifridge, television, sofa, and a desk area. Ample wardrobe space allowed for easy organization, and the wide selection of movies on the television ensured entertainment during the downtime. The beds were comfortable, and we had a good night’s sleep throughout the journey.

Additionally, it is worth noting that the televisions in the rooms did not have access to Netflix or other streaming services. However, this wasn’t a significant drawback, considering the wide range of movies available on the television, which provided ample entertainment options. For those who desired a more personalized selection, we would recommend downloading movies onto your laptop before embarking on the cruise. This way, you can enjoy your preferred movies at your leisure.

Onboard Entertainment: Few Options with Room for Improvement

While the entertainment onboard the ship may not have been specifically tailored for young adults, this was something we expected and were prepared for. However, we really enjoyed the top deck. Here, we found a selection of sports and games that catered to everybody. Whether it was a friendly basketball match, a competitive game of table tennis, testing our skills on the giant chessboard, going for a run, or practicing our swing on the golf simulator, there was no shortage of fun activities to partake in.

Additionally, the ship’s gym proved to be a welcomed addition for those looking to maintain their fitness routines while cruising. Fully equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, the gym offered everything one needed for a comprehensive workout. What made the experience even more enjoyable was the breathtaking sea views that could be enjoyed while using the cardio machines.

For those seeking relaxation and pampering, the onboard spa provided a sanctuary of tranquility. While the prices were a little on the higher side, the spa treatments were still a pleasant indulgence. However, it’s worth mentioning that the staff could be quite pushy when it came to upselling additional products during our treatments. Despite this, the thermal spa onboard the ship was a standout feature that we highly recommend. This oasis of relaxation included a sauna, steam room, salt room, and jacuzzi, providing a rejuvenating and soothing experience after a day of exploration.

Shore Excursions: A Key Highlight, Planning is Key

The shore excursions stood out as some of the best experiences during our trip. However, we quickly learned that planning these excursions in advance is crucial to making the most of your time ashore. By avoiding booking directly with P&O and instead opting to book with tour operators when disembarking from the ship, you are able to save money and have more flexibility in selecting your preferred tours.

It’s important to note that the availability of these direct bookings is subject to the tour operators’ schedules, but rest assured, there are always options available for those who are not too particular about which tours to take. While some ports may offer limited activities beyond leisurely strolling around the towns, booking shore excursions provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the local culture, history, and natural wonders.

One of our most memorable excursions took place in the port of Olden. Here, we embarked on an awe-inspiring adventure by taking a skylift ride on one of the steepest lifts in the world. The ascent offered breathtaking views of the surrounding Norwegian Fjords, showcasing the sheer grandeur and magnificence of the landscape. It was a truly enjoyable experience that left a lasting impression and added a touch of adrenaline to our journey.

Staff & Service: Friendly and Helpful

One of our favourite aspects of our P&O 1 Week Iona Norwegian Cruise was the exceptional staff members onboard. From the moment we stepped foot on the ship, it was clear that the crew was dedicated to ensuring a pleasant experience for every guest. They consistently went above and beyond, working tirelessly to meet the needs and exceed the expectations of passengers.

The staff’s friendly and approachable nature created a warm and welcoming atmosphere throughout the ship. From the dining venues to the cabins and common areas, their genuine smiles and willingness to assist made us feel valued and appreciated as guests. No matter the request or inquiry, they were always quick to respond and provide helpful assistance.

While tipping is not mandatory on P&O cruises, we would strongly encourage leaving a gratuity for the hardworking staff. Their dedication and commitment to providing exceptional service deserve recognition and appreciation. Tipping is a personal decision, but it can be a meaningful gesture to express gratitude for the outstanding efforts put forth by the staff members who work tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience for everyone.

Price: Good Value for a Unforgettable Journey

Considering the overall experience, the P&O cruise offers exceptional value for money. While additional expenses such as water, snacks, dining at specialty restaurants, and extras like photographs are to be expected, the initial price of the cruise itself, coupled with the quality of the accommodations, dining options, shore excursions, and fantastic service, make the investment worthwhile.

Guests should budget accordingly and prepare for the added expenses, but rest assured that the overall value received far exceeds the additional costs. The memories and experiences gained from a P&O cruise are truly priceless.

The P&O 7-day Iona Norwegian Fjords Cruise offers a satisfying and memorable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of the Norwegian Fjords. With comfortable accommodations, standout dining options like the Keel & Kow steakhouse, and a range of onboard activities including sports on the top deck and a well-equipped gym, there is plenty to enjoy.

Planning shore excursions in advance and booking directly with tour operators proves to be a money-saving strategy, while the helpful and friendly staff adds to the overall experience.

Although some minor drawbacks exist, the cruise provides excellent value for money, allowing guests to indulge in relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments amidst the stunning scenery of the Norwegian Fjords.

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Reviews 3.5.

3,004 total

Most relevant

Finally received a reply from P&O…

Finally received a reply from P&O regarding our Xmas 2023 cruise aboard Arvia. Took them 3 months to respond!!! Our issue was with Maleth Aero and P&O are accepting no responsibility for our dreadful experience with Maleth Aero. That’s us done with P&O now. Used them for 20 years and they have become a terrible cruise company, not to be trusted.

Date of experience : December 15, 2023

Wouldn't give any stars but can't

Wouldn't give any stars but can't. On Caribbean cruise at beginning of year flying with maleth aero. Like everyone else who had to suffer this charter company we are still awaiting compensation. There not answering anything now and would appear not to be flying, last attempt out of Gatwick was cancelled, and passengers left sitting in airport. PO are not honouring there package holiday bookings criteria, not answering emails. ABTA &CAA have both had report but have also not responded. I have totally lost faith and respect with P O.

Date of experience : January 27, 2024

We love cruising with P&O

We have used P&O cruises for the past 14 years and they have always been excellent. The ships, food and entertainment are of the highest standard. This cruise had excellent shows, as always in the Headliners Theatre with the resident group. Our latest cruise to Northern Europe was no exception and really enjoyable with lovely ports visited. The staff on board are always very helpful and pleasant and make you feel special

Date of experience : March 30, 2024

we've been on 2 cruises with P&O and now we're on our third

we've been on 2 cruises with P&O cruises and this July to August 2024 we're going again because we had a bargain its cheaper to go on a cruise than have a holiday in the UK because everything is done for you and you don't have to worry about baggage like on a plane easy parking by this i mean on some cruise packages you get free parking SO I RECOMEND IT ANYONE

Date of experience : April 13, 2024

Just returned from 7 night trip on…

Just returned from 7 night trip on Aurora. Excellent food and staff generally. Weather could have been better but not even P&O can control that! Would recommend as a great break.

Date of experience : April 01, 2024

Great Value for money

Our three week cruise from the canaries through to the Greek isles was very enjoyable and had great things to do, both at ports and on sea days. P&O are obviously aiming for the value for money cruise market and do this very well, but many of the frills have been dropped to get the price balance right. Drinks on board are considerably cheaper than their competitors, apart from the wine selection when dining. But overall, great value for money.

Date of experience : March 15, 2024

Fantastic service by all on-board

Fantastic service by all on-board. Expansive gym (2 machines were out of order but no big deal!), vast food options to cater for most. There is plenty of on-board entertainment to be enjoyed and much more... Planning to book again!

Date of experience : March 23, 2024

First time on P&O with Aurora April…

First time on P&O with Aurora April 2024 loved the ship, cabin was wonderful, service excellent. However Food was awful no vegetables only beans in main dinning. Tours ok but got on wrong bus and no one checked really upsetting. Entertainment was all singing and dancing, but what if you want something else? no talks, plays nothing. Could not believe they have a casino and bingo on board still I guess you pay for what you get. Price was good but having to waive your napkin in the air to appreciate the chefs was all a bit too much more like a circus. Especially as food was awful most nights. I do not think I will ever journey with P&O again I am told their standards have slipped a lot sad such a pretty ship and just the right size. I suppose as the price was good this is what you get.

Date of experience : April 07, 2024

Really easy to book with Tesco vouchers08/04/2024

Call was answered within a few minutes. Operator was friendly and professional. Wanted to book a cruise using some Tesco vouchers and a little wary having seen previous negative views. Absolutely no problem and completely met my needs. Just looking for calm seas for the cruise

Date of experience : April 08, 2024

Pleasant cruise.

Just got back from a week on ventura visiting spain portugal and france. Satisfied overall with everything. Spent a lot of my time reading until the early hours on 15 after some entertainment in the exchange, which, in my opinion, is the best bar and has the best staff on the ship. As usual, I don't book excursions, so can't comment on those. The beach house restaurant is well worth the extra money, amazing food! Downside is the extortionate internet prices.

Conned on parking with no actual space

We paid extra to add on parking at the cruise terminal. We read all the guides on the website and all the emails that we were spammed each week. Wondered why we hadnt received the parking details and then were told its in the T&C that you need to book 35 days before sailing and that spaces weren't guaranteed - so we spent £300 for an option to potentially get a space!! We have logged a complaint and I will update the review once that has been processed but its really put a dampener on the whole holiday. So my tip - don't do parking through them. Lots of cheaper options were you are actually guaranteed a space.

Poor Safety Briefing

After P & O changed our flights without explanation which resulted in a much later arrival time the flight was further delayed which meant we arrived on AZURA after the safely briefing. Because of this on arrival we were sent to the theatre where we had to wait for 20 minutes before the Asst. Cruise Director rushed through reading something so fast he couldn't even finish his sentences. As previous cruisers were were already aware of procedures but for any first time cruiser they would have left the briefing with no clue !. Good job no incidents !

Date of experience : March 28, 2024

Lack of facilities and poor customer service

First cruise ever so was excited the experience the best of what cruising had to offer. Booked a week's trip to Norway Fjords on Iona. It was expensive but you get very little for your money in return. The cabin was nice and fairly clean, but the balcony door didn't seal properly so made a loud whistle. The dividing door on the balcony kept blowing open. Had an extra sea day due to poor weather and no extra entertainment was put on, the whole cruise every thing entertainment wise was fully booked from day 1 (cruise tip book everything asap). Most of the info talks were just sales pitches, Buffets were half open, no self service machines running, other passenger lift etiquette was poor even to people with disabilities. Linking bookings made no difference and restaurants can't seat more than 6 people together. The whole experience felt like there were far too many passengers for the facilities to be able to cope with. P&O customer care has been shockingly poor, they ignore you for as long as possible and then don't want to help you or even acknowledge your communications to them despite requesting it. My advice would be try a different cruise company.

Date of experience : August 05, 2023

Just fantastic Just fantastic experience on the Azura experience on the Azura

Just fantastic experience on the Azura cruising around the med Croatia and Italy. The entire trip was brilliantly organised and we felt pampered.

Date of experience : April 04, 2024

Arvia East-West Atlantic crossing March 2024

This cruise was a repeat of twelve month's ago, meaning we did enjoy both cruises. The entertainment was excellent, but a repeat, which was a disappointment for us; understandably P&O repeated them. From checking in at Gatwick to embarkation, faultless. TUI are a good partner. The ship is well looked after, especially important when TransAtlantic. Not the company's fault, mobile phones being used on loudspeaker mode; why do people do that? It is unsociable. Reminders on etiquette in the daily Horizon please.

Date of experience : March 16, 2024

Another lovely cruise on Arvia

Another great cruise Perhaps not a transatlantic again or if I did the other way so it gets warmer towards the end I can now however say I have crossed the Atlantic! As always I like Arvia and treat it as a second home. Mediterranean in 6 weeks then Christmas Caribbean already booked

Experiencing the Arvia

The Arvia is a luxurious ship. The cabin was clean and furnishings were lovely. The bed was so comfy. The bathroom accessories from the White Company were just amazing. The only criticism is that the cabin felt smaller than other ships and we needed a traffic light system for moving around. The dining and entertainment was first class with so much selection. We felt safe, valued and were treated very well.

Date of experience : March 09, 2024

Disgusting embarkation

As a result of P&O booking our flights to arrive late in the afternoon, a subsequent delay at Gatwick meant we were rushed to the ship and herded into The Playhouse before waiting 30mins for our safety presentation to start. We were made to feel it was our fault we were late. At no time were we welcomed warmly or offered a welcoming drink after spending a long day travelling. No information provided concerning how to get access to our room etc. Thereafter the cruise was superb and I can’t fault it but a bit of thought towards late arrival for embarkation is needed - it was not our fault we were late.

Caribbean fly cruise

Flying out from Manchester with TUI was a disappointment, had informed P&O of a nut allergy, no provisions for this, told she could have a apple instead, no option to buy food either, long time for a 9 hour flight. Transfers were great as well as all staff on board, allergy was very well catered for, all pre-booked trips very well ran. Disappointed that 1 formal evening was just cancelled without any reason or infomation passed on to guests. Biggest disappointment was cancelling the stop in the Azores on way home due to weather, although 2 other ships managed to berth 1 before us and 1 after, lots on board thinking this was as they were in a big hurry to get back as the ship was being refurbished on return. Disembarkation was bought forward after this as well as loading/unloading the day before in Southampton at 4 o clock on the Thursday, everyone staying on-board until Friday morning. It was a shame that these things did put a damper on our holiday which is why I only gave it 3 stars, if it was not for the missed port and the no food for nut allergy on plane it would of defiantly be 5 stars.

Date of experience : March 22, 2024

AVOID AVOID AVOID

AVOID AVOID AVOID. Spent thousands on board as food was so awful, we had to pay extra for the good restaurants, just to find out P&O charged us double, once when on board and again when we left. Then when we complained we were told we will have to wait 30 days to receive our money back. What a joke, they have left me overdrawn with direct debits bouncing. They took an extra 4K they were not entitled to take. I feel so ripped off.

Date of experience : March 31, 2024

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• P&O Cruises UK launches "Shine at Sea" seminars for travel...

P&O Cruises UK launches "Shine at Sea" seminars for travel agents (ship Iona)

P&O Cruises UK is set to host 100 agents on its inaugural seminars at sea for the year. The company has launched a fresh incentive program named Shine at Sea, where 50 travel agents will secure spots on each of two 7-night voyages aboard Iona ship .

The first voyage is to the Norwegian fjords and is scheduled to depart on September 7th from Southampton England . The second voyage starts on November 2nd (Northern Europe itinerary).

Travel agents can participate in a prize draw to win these coveted spots by making and registering new bookings through the Shine Rewards Club. They will have the flexibility to choose which seminar at sea they prefer to attend and can also nominate a colleague to accompany them.

Moreover, bonus entries can be obtained by tuning in to a live video session on April 24 on the line’s dedicated trade Facebook page and by participating in a happy hour event tailored for homeworkers on May 14.

Ruth Venn (P&O's Sales Director) expressed her enthusiasm for Shine at Sea, emphasizing that offering agents the opportunity to experience the product firsthand is the optimal approach.

In addition to these seminars at sea, P&O Cruises has unveiled its most extensive ship visit program for 2024, with over 1,000 places available for agents. This initiative will complement the existing ship visit opportunities, allowing the cruise line to host 1,100+ agents on board throughout the year.