P&O’s Iona Cruise Ship Review- 10 Things I Loved

Last summer (2022) my partner and I embarked on our first ever cruise with P&O’s  Iona. We travelled on a return voyage from Southampton to Norway, and were scheduled to stop in Stavanger, Alesund, Olden and Haegsund over an 8 day schedule.

Unfortunately our stop at Stavanger was cancelled due to high winds, however, we had missed port coverage as part of our insurance which meant that we were given a small sum each to cover the inconvenience. While I would have loved to visit Stavanger (and had picked out a cool bookish cafe/bar to visit) I didn’t really mind as it meant that our budget trip was even cheaper.

Here are 9 things that I loved about P&O’s cruise ship Iona.

1) The hot tubs on the outside of the ship which provide stunning views of the Norwegian Fjords

P&O’s Iona has a total of 24 hot tubs scattered around decks 8, 16, 17 and 18. One of my favourite memories from our trip around the Norwegian Fjords was staying on the ship for the morning in Olden. We had a hot tub all to ourselves while most of the other people were off exploring, and spent a few hours enjoying the beautiful scenery. We make sure to hop off the ship later to see the area, but this was a real pinch me moment.

3) The beautiful library in Andersen’s Library Bar

While many modern cruise ships have started to remove libraries from their designs (Iona’s sister ship Arvia actually does not have a library), I was so pleased to find a small library space on Iona. While the reading selection wasn’t huge, there was a good variety of books available to flick through, and I always find that the presence of books elevates a space. Andersen’s was also our second favourite bar to spend time in as it’s quite a cosy spot with lots of comfy chairs to relax in - perfect for reading.

4) The beautiful marbled atrium in the centre of the ship

Iona’s showstopper is of course it’s stunning atrium. The marbled central staircase is the perfect backdrop for photographs, and it’s spectacular to see the guests milling around here during Celebration Night. You can also pay for professional photos in this spot, although we didn’t because my partner and I are too awkward always look terrible in staged photographs.

Restaurants and bars like the outsides of this space, so you’re bound to spend lots of time in here.

5) Coffee in Vista’s while watching the ocean go by on a sea day

Vista’s is a great place to sit and relax on a sea day. Located on deck … of the atrium, the coffee shop is surrounded by huge windows and it’s a great place to watch the world go by.

7) Our cosy little inside room - ideal for those cruising on a budget

For this cruise we opted for the cheapest cabin onboard and absolutely loved it. Our inside room was compact but very comfortable and modern. As we spent most of our time elsewhere on the ship, we didn’t mind not having all of the extra space that comes with a more expensive room. It’s definitely a brilliant budget option and I’d highly recommend it.

Plus, because we were sailing in Norway, it wasn’t particular warm outside so I don’t think we would have got much use out of a balcony.

6) Ocean Studios, the on board cinema with 3 screens

Here’s a great free entertainment option for anyone who loves the cinema experience! Although there were plenty of movies available to watch on the television in our room, we had booked an inside cabin, so it was really nice to have the Ocean Studios as an alternative. The screening schedule shows a variety of films suitable for adults and children, and yes you can take your glass of wine in with you.

8) The huge variety of restaurants to eat at

We sailed on Iona for a week and definitely didn’t manage to visit all of the eateries that were onboard. We made sure to try each of the four inclusive dining options; each of them serve the same food, which rotates to a new menu each day. The four restaurants have different names and different vibes, so it felt like we were eating somewhete different each night. We also treated ourselves to a few speciality restaurants, which cost a small additional fee, with Keel and Cow being our favourite.

2) Daily live piano performances in The Crow’s Nest

During our trip my partner and I spent many of our evenings in the Crow’s Nest. Not only is the space stunning with its Great Gatsby- esque decor, but there are also huge windows which capture amazing views of the passing scenery. During the summer Norway experiences a phenomenon called the Midnight Sun, meaning that it stays light until midnight in the height of summer. All of this made the bar an ideal place to relax in the evening and enjoy a spot of live piano music.

9) Luxurious treatments in the on-board spa

Iona has a fully equipped spa offering a range of relaxing treatments. We booked a couples full body massage and enjoyed every second. The massage therapists were fantastic, and the room was modern and provided a relaxing atmosphere. Optional add-ons are offered during the appointment (I opted for aromatherapy and my partner for the hot stones). I recommend either booking in advance if you have your heart set on a particular treatment, or waiting for deals in the Horizon (the daily printed newsletter) once your on board.

One regret of mine in hindsight is that we didn’t book the Thermal Suite during our voyage on Iona. We visited on the sister ship, Arvia, and thought it was fantastic and well worth the money. The suite costs £39 for two hours and the facilities include sauna and steam rooms, heated loungers, and a hydrotherapy pool. You’ll share it with a few other cruisers, but numbers are limited so it doesn’t feel crowded at all. Just make sure you book this one in advance!

10) The summer fantastic itinerary in Norway

Currently Iona spends its summers sailing between Southampton and Norway, stopping in ports such as Olden, Stavanger, Ålesund, Haegsund and more. Norway is a beautiful place to be in the summer due to the long days and weather that’s often sunny, but not too hot. We visited three ports during our cruise and loved every second of exploring the country. I can’t wait to go back and spend some more time there.

Thank you for reading my article all about the things I loved on P&O’s fantastic cruise ship, Iona. Do leave a comment and let me know if you agree or disagree with my points, and if you’re yet to sail on Iona, have an amazing time!

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