As the construction of the highly-anticipated Iona continues, we’re eager to get our hands on all the information we can about what she’ll be like. How will the cabins be decorated? What restaurants will there be? How many pools will she have? Well as time goes on, we’ll be hearing more and more, so register your interest with us to make sure you get all the latest updates. You can find Iona's deals here. But for now, read on for a sneak peek into what’s in store onboard P&O’s Iona.
With an absolute commitment to bringing guests’ attention to the sea, P&O Cruises informed their esteemed designers – Richmond International and Jestico + Whiles – to ensure they well and truly stuck to this theme. And the result is idyllic.
What We Know About the Cabins on Iona
Cabins have been adorned in a gorgeous array of gentle colours, with soft furnishings and extra little details only complimenting the overall design. Guests can expect a palette of creams, golds, and whites, with a peppering of different tones of brown. Against this calm and warm backdrop there will be a range of blue tones, focusing of course on the classic, nautical navy blue.
Richmond International have remarked that the guidelines for Iona included that it should be British contemporary luxury, meaning P&O’s well-loved British theming will be evident throughout but with a few added and opulent extras. In cabins and suites, furniture will be of an excellent standard, showcasing high quality natural wood materials, which again echo the essence of the ocean and all things natural. The porthole style mirrors are a fabulous example of this.
Ever-wanting to increase choice and comfortability for guests, P&O Cruises have introduced a new style of accommodation with Iona; the Conservatory Mini-suite. This brings the total of cabin types to an impressive seven; an abundance of choice to suit all passengers. These new cabins boast a new cool and shaded space which can open out fully onto the balcony. It’s a great area for relaxing, socialising, or enjoying that morning coffee while gazing at the surrounding views.
What We Know About the Atrium on Iona
The glorious atrium – the focal area of the ship – will span three decks: 6, 7, and 8. The surrounding ocean will always be in a prime position with floor to ceiling, panoramic windows on all three floors, enabling guests to gaze out at the horizon at any time. The staircase itself will be reminiscent of cruise ships of the past, having been designed in a commanding and highly impressive fashion.
The atrium will be one of four popular entertainment spaces onboard, and throughout the day guests will be treated to some unexpected performances including aerial circus-style shows. These will be visible from the various cafes and restaurants located in the atrium as well;
- The Keel & Cow – a first for P&O Cruises, this down to earth, gastronomic pub will serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Expect favourite British dishes like fish and chips at lunch, and a variety of hearty meals in the evening. You’ll even be able to choose from some fabulous cuts of steak from the dry-aging fridge.
- The Glass House – this venue offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner along with a fantastic selection of wines from a list curated by wine expert and P&O Food Hero Olly Smith. Each bottle has been specifically chosen, and the venue hosts regular wine talks, tastings, and wine-pairing dinners for guests to attend.
- Emerald Bar – a wonderfully sophisticated area to enjoy drinks before dinner, or a tasty cocktail afterwards. Guests can socialise with new friends or relish in an intimate evening with loved ones while sipping a drink and gazing at the sea.
- Vistas Café Bar – this casual area is perfect for a treat during the day should you need to recharge! Order a tea or coffee and choose from a selection of snacks including cakes and desserts.
What We Know About the Other Facilities on Iona
P&O's new vessel will introduce some fantastic firsts for the cruise line, not only eateries but also entertainment and activities. Here are a few of the onboard opportunities you can look forward to:
- 710 Club – this adult only club is perfect for an evening of fun and socialising. Think Covent Garden-style ambience, with live music ranging from acoustic covers, classic and modern Jazz, rock classics, Rat Pack, and all sorts in between.
- Sky Dome – we are particularly excited about this new feature; a high-roofed pool with retractable stage which will live on decks 16 and 17. During the day this is the spot to grab your morning coffee from 7am, while watching the sea views glide by, then on to poolside fun, informal dining, and impromptu entertainment. Then into the evening you’ll be treated to stunning aerial performances and all sorts of audio-visual effects, as well as DJ led parties and live music.
- Ocean Studios - here guests have a choice of four, boutique-style cinema screens where they can watch both recent blockbusters and some fantastic classic cinema.
Offering such a wealth of choice when it comes to how to spend time on Iona, another fantastic comfort to the adults is the onboard children's clubs. Separated into five different age groups (6mnths - 2yrs, 2-4yrs, 5-8yrs, 9-12yrs, and 13-17yrs), all younger cruisers will find plenty to keep occupied with.
There's even a night nursery at which little ones from 6 months to 4 years can be left during the hours of 6pm to 2am; rest assured parents are given a pager so they will be alerted straight away if their child wakes or there are any problems.
What We Know About Iona’s Destinations
When she first hits the waves in 2020, Iona will spend her first spring/summer season traversing the Norwegian Fjords. This incredible part of the world has plenty to offer all its visitors, whether you’re looking for family fun, serenity, culture, or an action-packed trip. Here’s a snippet of what you can expect to see and do:
- Kayaking in and around the beautiful scenery at areas such as Nordfjord and Geirangerfjord
- Trying local treats such as brunost (brown cheese) and skillingsbolle (cinnamon bun)
- Exploring history in towns such as Stavanger, known as the ‘Cradle of the Vikings’
- Gasping at stunning views from mountain cable cars and funicular railway
Iona is a fantastic ship for this destination, in part due to the fact that the views of the fjords and general surroundings can be admired from her brilliant glass-walled atrium. This means that you can sip on your morning coffee or enjoy some live music as you sail past the gorgeous vistas of Innvikfjorden and Storfjorden for example.
Cruises onboard P&O Iona will go on sale to past passengers on Monday 10th September and on general sale on Wednesday 12th September. You can pre-register from Monday 3rd September.
Be sure to sign up to our mailing list, and register your interest in P&O’s Iona with us.
