If you're thinking about booking a cruise on P&O’s Iona, you’re in for a treat! As one of the most modern and eco-friendly ships in the fleet, Iona offers an incredible mix of adventure, entertainment, and relaxation. Whether you're exploring the Norwegian Fjords, soaking up the Canary Islands' sun, or enjoying a short break in Northern Europe, this guide will give you everything you need to plan your perfect trip in 2025. With its innovative design, spacious decks, and world-class service, Iona is built to give you a memorable cruising experience.
History & Fun Facts About Iona
Iona made waves when she launched in 2021, becoming P&O’s largest ship ever and one of the most innovative cruise ships in the world. With a length of 344 metres, she was designed to bring the outside in, featuring expansive glass windows and open spaces that make the ocean views an essential part of your journey. What sets Iona apart is its commitment to sustainability, running on Liquified Natural Gas (LNG), which significantly reduces emissions compared to traditional fuels.
Largest Cruise Ship to Fly the UK Flag 🇬🇧 - Iona proudly sails under the UK flag and has been specifically designed to cater to British travellers, with a range of experiences tailored to UK tastes.
With space for 5,200 guests and 1,800 crew, Iona offers plenty of room to relax, dine, and enjoy entertainment 🎭🎶 without feeling overcrowded.
Over 30 Bars & Restaurants 🍷🍽️ From casual bites to fine dining , Iona features over 30 bars and restaurants, offering a huge variety of cuisines and dining experiences to suit every taste.
Four Swimming Pools & 18 Hot Tubs 💦 Take a dip in one of Iona’s four swimming pools, including infinity pools with breathtaking ocean views 🌊, or unwind in one of the 18 hot tubs for the ultimate relaxation.
World’s First Gin Distillery at Sea 🍹 Gin lovers will be thrilled to experience Marabelle Gin, distilled right onboard at Anderson’s Bar! Watch the process unfold and enjoy a perfectly crafted G&T at sea.
Check out the latest P&O Iona deck plan here.
Accommodation on Iona
Iona offers a wide range of cabins and suites to suit every budget and travel style. Whether you're looking for a cosy space to rest or a luxurious suite with stunning views, there's an option for you. All cabins are modern, stylish, and designed for comfort, with air-conditioning, a TV, and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Inside Cabins (101-213 sq. ft.) – These are the most affordable cabins, offering a compact yet comfortable place to rest after a long day exploring the ship. Though they don’t have windows, they provide a cosy and peaceful retreat.
Sea View Cabins (210-307 sq. ft.) – These cabins offer a porthole or window, giving you a glimpse of the sea while you relax. They provide a little extra natural light and a sense of openness compared to inside cabins.
Balcony Cabins (107-362 sq. ft.) – Perfect for those who enjoy fresh air and stunning ocean views, these cabins come with a private balcony. The floor-to-ceiling sliding doors allow plenty of natural light, making the space feel airy and inviting.
Conservatory Mini-Suites (274 sq. ft.) – These exclusive cabins come with a separate conservatory-style lounge area, making them ideal for those who want extra space. The extra room provides a fantastic spot to unwind while enjoying the ocean views.
Suites (434-530 sq. ft.) – If you want the luxury, suites offer spacious rooms, a whirlpool bath, a butler service, and perks. Guests in suites also get access to an exclusive restaurant and priority embarkation.
Dining on Iona
Food lovers will be in heaven aboard Iona, with a fantastic selection of restaurants and dining experiences. Whether you prefer casual dining, international flavours, or gourmet cuisine, Iona has something to offer. One of the standout features is freedom dining, allowing guests to eat whenever they choose rather than sticking to fixed meal times. Check out our P&O Iona Dining Guide for more pictures and menus.
Included Restaurants
Included restaurants on P&O Iona are dining venues where meals are covered in your cruise fare, meaning you can enjoy delicious food without any extra cost. These include the Main Dining Rooms, Horizon Buffet, and The Quays, offering a variety of cuisines, casual bites, and full-course meals throughout the day. 🍽️✨
Restaurant | Experience | How to Book | Normal Dress Code | Celebration Night Dress Code |
Main Dining Rooms (Coral, Pearl, Opal & Aqua) | Each offers freedom dining, so you can dine anytime, with menus featuring British classics and international flavours. | Join the virtual queue onboard via My Holiday or walk up. | Evening Casual | Black Tie |
The Quays | This street food spot serves Asian, fish & chips, and American classics—perfect for a quick, tasty bite. | Self-serve. | Evening Casual | Evening Casual |
Horizon Restaurant | A buffet-style restaurant, open all day with British and international favourites, perfect for variety and flexibility. | Self-serve. | Evening Casual | Evening Casual |
Taste 360 | Taste 360 offers delicious grab-and-go street food with flavours from around the world, perfect for a quick and tasty bite by the pool. | Self-serve. | n/a | n/a |
Grab & Go | Salads, wraps and more for you to grab and go (if it's open). | Self-serve. | n/a | n/a |
Speciality Restaurants (Extra Charge)
What is a Speciality Restaurant on a Cruise?
A speciality restaurant is a premium dining venue offering a more exclusive and elevated culinary experience compared to the included dining options. These restaurants often feature high-quality ingredients, unique cuisines, and expert chefs.
Restaurant | Experience | Cost | How to Book | Normal Dress Code | Celebration Night Dress Code |
Epicurean | A fine dining experience inspired by British and Norwegian cuisine. | Around £35pp for 3 courses. | Book via My P&O Cruises 14 days before embarkation or onboard. | Evening Casual | Black Tie |
Sindhu | A favourite for Indian food lovers, this restaurant offers authentic dishes with a British twist. The menu features flavourful curries, tandoori meats, and spiced seafood. | Around £22pp for 3 courses. | Book via My P&O Cruises 14 days before embarkation or onboard. | Evening Casual | Black Tie |
The Beach House | Offers a relaxed dining experience with Caribbean, South American, and American flavours, from sizzling steaks to juicy ribs. | Around £9pp for 3 courses. | Book via My P&O Cruises 14 days before embarkation or onboard. | Evening Casual | Evening Casual |
The Glass House | A wine bar and restaurant curated by Olly Smith, offering a tapas-style menu paired with expertly selected wines. | Charged per item. | Book onboard via My Holiday. | Evening Casual | Evening Casual |
The Keel & Cow | Claims the 'best burger at sea', this steakhouse serves premium dry-aged steaks, gourmet burgers, and classic pub dishes. | Charged per item. | Book onboard via My Holiday. | Evening Casual | Evening Casual |
The Limelight Club | A dinner-and-show experience featuring live cabaret performances. Enjoy a three-course meal while watching a fantastic live act. | Around £25pp for 3 courses. | Book via My P&O Cruises 14 days before embarkation or onboard. | Evening Casual | Black Tie |
The Olive Grove | A hidden gem serving Mediterranean dishes with a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great choice if you’re after something different but reasonably priced. | Inclusive menu with some items chargeable. | Book onboard via My Holiday. | Evening Casual | Evening Casual |
Ripples | Ripples serves artisan gelato, sundaes, and ice cream cookies—a perfect sweet treat at sea. | Charged per item. | Walk up. | n/a | n/a |
Check out our blog What to Wear on a P&O Cruise for more information on dress code.
Bars & Lounges
Whether you fancy a cocktail with a view, a lively pub atmosphere, or an intimate live music venue, P&O Iona has plenty of bars and lounges to suit every mood. From gin tasting and wine pairing to live entertainment and late-night drinks, here’s where to grab your favourite tipple onboard.
Vistas Café Bar
If you’re after barista-style coffee, fresh pastries, and light bites, Vistas Café Bar is the place to be. Situated in the Grand Atrium, it’s a bright and airy café offering stunning sea views and a relaxed spot to start your day.
💡 Top Tip: Vistas is a popular spot in the mornings, so grab a seat early to enjoy a peaceful coffee with an ocean view. 🌊✨
Anderson’s Bar & Library
Love gin? This is the place to be! Anderson’s Bar is home to Marabelle Gin, distilled onboard in the world’s first at-sea gin distillery. Enjoy a classic G&T, gin tastings, or even make your own!
Note: Black Tie is required on Celebration Night in Anderson's.
Brodie’s
For a laid-back, lively atmosphere, Brodie’s Pub serves up a wide selection of British and international beers, ales, and ciders. Plus, enjoy quizzes, live sports, and even a casino next door!
The Crow’s Nest
Perched high above the ship, The Crow’s Nest is one of the best bars on Iona for panoramic ocean views. By day, it’s a peaceful retreat where you can relax with a coffee or light drink while watching the world go by. By night, it transforms into a sophisticated cocktail lounge with live piano music and a luxurious yet laid-back atmosphere.
💡 Top Tip: Head here for pre-dinner drinks at sunset - the views are simply unmatched! 🌅✨
Note: Black Tie is required on Celebration Night in the Crow's Nest.
Emerald Bar
Located in Iona’s stunning Grand Atrium, Emerald Bar is an elegant and stylish spot for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxed evening cocktail. With chic décor, plush seating, and a refined drinks menu, it’s perfect for those who love crafted cocktails, premium spirits, and fine wines.
💡 Top Tip: Emerald Bar has a great atmosphere in the evenings, especially when there’s live music in the Atrium - grab a cocktail and enjoy the entertainment!
Infinity Bar
For the best sunset views at sea, the Infinity Bar offers outdoor seating, cocktails, and a relaxed vibe - ideal for a pre-dinner drink or a nightcap under the stars.
Crystal & Sky Bars
By day, a chilled-out spot for poolside drinks, but by night, the Crystal & Sky Bars transforms into a vibrant entertainment space with live performances, aerial shows, and laser displays.
Beachcomber Bar
For laid-back, poolside drinks with a sea breeze, Beachcomber Bar is the perfect spot. Located on Deck 18, this outdoor bar is right by the Beachcomber Pool and offers a casual, holiday atmosphere where you can sip on cocktails, beers, and soft drinks while soaking up the sun.
Panorama Bar
Panorama Bar is a relaxed poolside spot on the top deck, ideal for soaking up the sun with a refreshing drink and ocean views.
💡 Top Tip: If you want a seat at the 710 Club or Anderson’s Gin Tastings, book early - these venues fill up fast! 🎟️✨
With so many fantastic bars and lounges, P&O Iona has the perfect place for every kind of night - whether it’s a cosy drink, live music, or a lively party atmosphere! 🥂🍻
Entertainment on Iona
There’s never a dull moment on P&O Iona, with an incredible mix of live performances, theatre shows, music, and unique onboard experiences. Whether you love West End-style productions, live music, comedy, or immersive shows, Iona has something for everyone.
SkyDome
By day, SkyDome is a relaxing pool area, but by night, it transforms into a breathtaking entertainment venue with aerial performances, acrobatics, laser shows, and DJ sets. It’s a must-visit for an unforgettable evening.
Headliners Theatre
Enjoy Broadway-style performances, musicals, and interactive game shows in the impressive two-storey Headliners Theatre. Expect high-energy productions featuring talented performers, dazzling costumes, and top-tier stage effects.
The 710 Club
One of Iona’s hottest spots, The 710 Club offers an intimate live music experience in a stylish, low-lit venue. Curated by Gary Barlow, expect incredible musicians, smooth jazz, and laid-back acoustic sets. This venue fills up fast, so booking early is essential. Book onboard via My Holiday onboard.
Ocean Studios
For film lovers, Ocean Studios is a four-screen cinema showcasing a mix of blockbusters, classic films, and family favourites, all with the latest surround sound technology. Perfect for a cosy movie night at sea.
The Club House
For a fun and lively atmosphere, The Club House is the place to be! Enjoy live tribute bands, themed parties, and silent discos, making it the perfect spot for a night of dancing and entertainment.
Brodie’s
Looking for something more relaxed? Brodie’s is Iona’s very own British-style pub, offering quizzes, karaoke, and live sports screenings, plus an extensive selection of beers, ciders, and spirits.
Casino
If you fancy a flutter at sea, Iona’s onboard casino offers a stylish and exciting gaming experience. Located next to Brodie’s Pub, the casino features classic table games like Blackjack, Poker, and Roulette, alongside a range of slot machines for those who love a spin. 💰🎲
Wellness & Relaxation
If you’re looking to unwind and recharge, P&O Iona offers fantastic wellness facilities, from a luxurious spa to state-of-the-art fitness areas and exclusive adults-only retreats. Whether you want to pamper yourself, stay active, or simply relax, there’s something for everyone.
Oasis Spa
The Oasis Spa is a haven of tranquillity, offering a Thermal Suite with:
✔ Hydrotherapy Pool 💦 – Soothing jets for total relaxation.
✔ Sauna & Steam Rooms 🔥 – Perfect for unwinding tired muscles.
✔ Salt Room & Experiential Showers 🌊 – Great for skin and respiratory health.
✔ Luxury Spa Treatments – Enjoy massages, facials, and body wraps.
💡 Top Tip: Book spa treatments early as they fill up quickly!
The Retreat
For peace and quiet, The Retreat is a private, adults-only outdoor sanctuary with:
✔ Two infinity whirlpools 🌊
✔ Luxury day beds & cabanas 🛏️
✔ Complimentary smoothies & fruit platters 🍍🍹
💡 Note: The Retreat has limited spaces and requires a paid pass.
Fitness & Gym
Iona’s state-of-the-art gym is packed with:
✔ Technogym Equipment – Skillmills, Skillrows, treadmills & free weights.
✔ Fitness Classes – Yoga, Pilates, HIIT & spinning.
✔ Outdoor Sports Court – Football, basketball & table tennis.
💡 Top Tip: Morning yoga on deck is a great way to start your day with fresh sea air!
Walking & Jogging Track
Prefer a gentle workout with a view? Iona’s top-deck track is perfect for a morning stroll or jog while enjoying stunning ocean scenery.
Salon & Beauty Services
For a fresh new look, visit the salon for:
✔ Haircuts & styling 💇♀️
✔ Manicures & pedicures 💅
✔ Professional makeup & grooming 💄
💡 Planning a special occasion onboard? Book a hair and makeup session for a glamorous evening look!
Kids’ Clubs on P&O Iona
Travelling with kids? P&O Iona makes family cruising fun, easy, and stress-free with The Reef, its fantastic kids’ club packed with activities for all ages. Whether your little ones want to make new friends, explore, or just have fun, there’s something for everyone. Best of all? It’s completely free!
The Reef – Age-Specific Clubs 🏴☠️🎨🎮
The Reef is divided into age groups, ensuring kids get the best activities suited to them:
👶 Splashers (Ages 2-4) – Fun-filled play sessions, storytelling, and crafts.
🎨 Surfers (Ages 5-8) – Interactive games, treasure hunts, and creative activities.
🎮 Scubas (Ages 9-12) – Video games, sports, and talent shows.
🕹️ H2O Club (Ages 13-17) – A cool hangout space with arcade games, movie nights, and teen socials.
Family-Friendly Activities 👨👩👧👦✨
In addition to The Reef, P&O Iona offers plenty of fun for the whole family, including:
✔ Splash Zones & Pools 💦 – Perfect for kids to cool off and play.
✔ Sports Court ⚽ – Football, basketball, and fun challenges.
✔ Ocean Studios Cinema 🎬 – Family-friendly films on the big screen.
✔ Silent Discos & Family Quiz Nights 🎧❓ – Great for all ages to enjoy together!
To book The Reef kids club, you need to pre-register your child(ren) via My P&O Cruises 14 days before your cruise and then book sessions once onboard using the My Holiday planner.
💡 Top Tip: The Reef is super popular, so sign up early on embarkation day to secure a spot! 🎟️🚢
Shopping
Fancy a bit of shopping while at sea? P&O Iona offers a brilliant mix of shops, galleries, and exclusive onboard deals, so you can treat yourself, grab a few essentials, or even plan your next cruise while still onboard.
👜 Boutiques & Fashion: Browse a range of designer brands including Mulberry (the first at sea!), TAG Heuer, Clarins, Clinique, and Ted Baker. From handbags and watches to skincare and make-up, there’s something for everyone.
📚 The Harbour Shop: Forgot something? Pop into the Harbour Shop for travel essentials, suncream, snacks, toiletries, and books - super handy for sea days!
🎁 The P&O Gift Shop is ideal for souvenirs, including branded goodies, cuddly bears, and even mini Iona ship models to remember your trip.
🛍️ Duty-Free Deals: Take advantage of tax- and duty-free savings on fragrances, cosmetics, alcohol, tobacco, and gifts. Great for stocking up or grabbing a treat at a better price than on land.
🖼️ Whitewall Galleries: Art lovers will enjoy exploring Whitewall Galleries, showcasing contemporary artwork and limited-edition pieces. You can attend art talks, viewings, and even invest in a piece to take home.
💙 Loyalty & Cruise Sales: Love cruising with P&O? Visit the Loyalty and Cruise Sales Desk to chat about future sailings, ask about loyalty perks, or even book your next cruise with exclusive onboard-only deals and discounts.
💡 Top Tip: Keep an eye out for shopping events and flash sales in the daily planner, especially for the P&O Gift Shop which always has a % off event.
FAQs About P&O Iona
How many passengers does Iona hold?
Iona has a capacity of 5,200 guests and 1,800 crew members.
What destinations does Iona sail to?
Iona sails to the Norwegian Fjords (summer), the Canary Islands (winter), and Northern Europe.
Does Iona have a launderette?
Yes, check out our blog here.
Is Iona a family-friendly cruise ship?
Yes! Iona is great for families, offering kids’ clubs, adventure zones, splash parks, and family-friendly entertainment.
Does Iona have an adults-only area?
Yes! The Retreat is an exclusive adults-only space with whirlpools and sun loungers.
Is there a dress code on Iona?
Smart casual is recommended in most restaurants, with one or two formal nights per cruise.
Can you book speciality restaurants in advance?
Yes! Booking in advance is highly recommended for popular venues like The 710 Club and Epicurean.
Can I take alcohol onboard P&O Iona?
Yes, but with restrictions. Check out our blog Can I take alcohol/soft drinks on a P&O cruise ship? for more info.
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