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February 25, 2025

What makes the P&O Iona so special as a cruise ship? Why is it not only a good choice for British guests? My German perspective, shaped by experiences with sister brand AIDA Cruises, also contributes to answering these questions.

Elegant departure from Southampton

A soft winter fog and gray clouds hang over the port of Southampton. For us, arrival day begins with a truly British atmosphere as passengers arrive at the terminal. Many come by bus, conveniently disembarking at the covered terminal entrance and dropping off their luggage right at the gate – very comfortable. The air is cool, filled with the salty scent of the sea, while the screeching of a few seagulls adds a maritime touch and heightens the anticipation of the journey.

The P&O Iona towers before us – the largest and most modern ship of the traditional British cruise line, P&O Cruises, alongside its sister ship, Arvia. The Iona proudly displays the Union Jack on its bow, immediately reflecting its heritage. But from a German perspective, there’s also reason to be proud, as both of the cruise line’s flagships were built at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg. With a length of 344 meters, P&O lists the Iona’s capacity at 5,200 guests, served by 1,800 crew members.

Smooth check-in and grand first impressions

Checking in at the P&O Iona’s home terminal is quick, though our passports prompt some curiosity: We later learn that only eight other German guests are on board. The excitement builds as we walk down the gangway, and our first steps on board bring a “wow” moment: The Grand Atrium welcomes us with its airy elegance, large panoramic windows, and, above all, Christmas decorations. Stylish Christmas trees, silver fir branches, and glittering gold accents adorn the large curved marble staircase. The festive glow is complemented by an artistic depiction of the Christmas story and live music.

The safety video can be watched directly on a smartphone, saving time. A quick check-in at the muster station on our way to the cabin completes the entire safety drill. Our cruise cards are waiting on the cabin door. Inside, a standard balcony cabin on Deck 14 awaits us. Inspired by the colors of the sea, calming tones of sand and white, accentuated by gold and navy blue, create a relaxing yet elegant atmosphere. The Scandinavian-inspired design includes practical features: a kettle with tea and coffee-making facilities, a refrigerator (not stocked), UK and European outlets, multiple USB-A ports, a large safe, and a spacious bathroom with a glazed shower – what more could you want? I can already picture myself sitting on the balcony in my cozy bathrobe, enjoying breakfast.
As we dress for our first relaxed dinner, rain begins to fall. This even spoils the mood of the famously weather-hardened Brits at an outdoor sail away party. Nonetheless, the excitement remains as we set sail for Lisbon, the Canary Islands, and Madeira.

Sea Days – Unwinding on the open ocean

The first two days at sea offer ample time to explore the Iona’s many amenities. Despite hosting over 5,200 passengers, the ship never feels crowded – there’s always a quiet spot to unwind. A standout feature is the wraparound promenade deck, a rarity on modern cruise ships. Here, early risers can catch the first light of day on a walk while the ship glides through the Atlantic, accompanied only by the rhythmic sounds of the waves.
At the heart of the ship is the SkyDome, an architectural marvel – a glass dome that floods the indoor pool area with sunlight by day and transforms into an entertainment venue by night. As evening falls, the space morphs into a theatrical stage for high-energy performances. Creativiva’s shows – SPARK, TRIBOO, and RISE – turn the dome into an immersive spectacle of acrobatics. Additionally, “Schhh”, a production curated by Nicole Scherzinger, dazzles audiences with dynamic dance and captivating music.

New Year’s Eve in Lisbon: A festive celebration

After two days at sea, the ship calls Lisbon, one of Europe’s most picturesque capitals, nestled along the hills of the Tagus River. The streets are filled with the aroma of freshly baked pastéis de nata, blending harmoniously with the salty sea breeze.

A half-day excursion takes us to Cascais, a charming coastal town with whitewashed houses, narrow streets, and fishing boats swaying in the bay. The old fort, now home to a museum and art exhibits, offers a glimpse into the region’s history. In a small, hidden shopping center, we stumble upon a family-run bakery, where we sample delectable pastries far from the tourist bustle.

Back in Lisbon, there is plenty of time to stroll through the historic old town, listen to traditional fado music from the taverns and soak up the festive atmosphere of the city. The Praça do Comércio pulses with energy – speakers boom with live concert music as crowds gather. As the evening deepens, we return to the ship, where a five-course New Year’s Eve gala dinner awaits us in the Pearl Restaurant. What was a relaxed, casually dressed crowd during the day has now transformed: tuxedos, elegant gowns, and sparkling accessories exude an air of refined celebration.
After the exquisite gala menu, many passengers gather on deck. At the stroke of midnight, the New Year’s Eve fireworks over the Tagus transform the sky into a glowing sea of color. The golden, red and blue explosions are reflected in the water, champagne glasses clink – a New Year that will remain in our memories for a long time. While we are still celebrating in the SkyDome, the Iona casts off for the Canary Islands.

The food concept is based on British tastes

P&O Iona’s culinary offerings strike a balance between tradition and innovation. While the British influence is strong – like Beef Wellington and Shepherd’s Pie – the variety extends far beyond fish and chips. “Pudding” is often used by the crew as a synonym for desserts, but from a German perspective, caution is advised. It is not always a dessert, as we quickly realize when we see the “Black Pudding” at the buffet.

The ship’s four main dining rooms – Pearl, Coral, Opal, and Aqua – offer a choice between “Club Dining”, with assigned seating, or “Freedom Dining”, which allows guests to enjoy multi-course meals at their leisure between 6:00 and 9:30 p.m. Reservations are easily managed through the MyHoliday website’s virtual queue, which, surprisingly, eliminates the need for any traditional British-style queuing. The focus of the restaurant concept is clearly on service – the buffet restaurant and the variety of dishes are comparatively small for a ship of this class. This is one of the biggest differences to the German sister brand AIDA.

For those craving something extra special, specialty restaurants provide a world of flavors. “Sindhu” elevates Indian cuisine with bold, aromatic spices, while “The Keel & Cow” tempts with dry-aged steaks and its famed Prime Minister Burger. At “The Glass House” in the Grand Atrium, fine wines complement an exquisite selection of tapas – a perfect pairing for a leisurely sea day lunch. Not all themed restaurants are chargeable, but reservations are required. For example, in the “Olive Grove” which serves Mediterranean dishes from pizza to pasta to paella. Fish & chips, Asian rice and noodle dishes and freshly grilled burgers are available at “The Quays” without a reservation and at no extra charge. The concept is reminiscent of a market hall and is also particularly popular for breakfast. The “Full English Breakfast” on offer as well as delicious waffles and a small continental breakfast buffet ensure this.

Interestingly, despite its British heritage, the Iona does not serve traditional afternoon tea in its main dining rooms. Instead, “The Epicurean” offers an upscale tea experience, complete with freshly baked scones, clotted cream, and delicate pastries – an indulgence well worth the extra charge. A simple self-serve option is available in the buffet.

Land in sight first stop: Lanzarote

After two relaxing days at sea, we arrive in Lanzarote, the first stop on our island-hopping adventure through the Canary Islands. The morning sun already warms our balcony as we wave to our group’s sister ship, AIDAcosma, docked nearby in Arrecife. “Good morning!” echoes cheerfully across the harbor.

Having explored Lanzarote extensively on previous visits, we opt to stay onboard, seizing the opportunity to enjoy Iona’s infinity pools in serene solitude. A few blissful hours of sun-soaked relaxation later, we venture into the ship’s wellness sanctuary. The Oasis Spa offers treatments at mid-range pricing compared to other cruise lines, with one major advantage – no automatic service charge.

After a casual lunch at Boardwalk Diner in “The Quays”, the afternoon takes a more active turn. A quick round of table tennis, a few shots on the basketball court, and some practice swings in the golf cage set the stage for my scheduled spa treatment. My therapist, Tara, leads me to the treatment rooms on Deck 5. I immediately notice a pleasant scent of sandalwood and feel the pleasant pressure of circular movements on my muscles as I sink into my thoughts while listening to soft, relaxing music.

For those craving even deeper tranquility, the thermal suite – available for an additional fee – features a sauna, steam room, and a bubbling thermal pool, perfect for unwinding after an active day.

A morning of leisure in Fuerteventura

The next day, Iona arrives in Fuerteventura. We start our morning with a leisurely breakfast on the balcony, indulging in a feast delivered by room service – fresh fruit, muesli, a warm croissant, or a hearty plate of eggs and bacon. The small delivery charge is well worth the indulgence.

Famed for its endless golden beaches, Fuerteventura is a paradise for sunseekers. While the dunes of Corralejo beckon in the distance, we opt for a slower pace – strolling through the harbor town of Puerto del Rosario before unfurling our towels on Playa Chica, a charming local beach. Toes in the sand, salt in the air, and the rhythmic sound of waves: sometimes, simplicity is the greatest luxury. And all the while, our majestic ship remains in perfect view.

Further island-hopping through the Canaries

Our next destination is Gran Canaria, where the island’s heartbeat pulses through Las Palmas – a city that’s vibrant, lively, and brimming with energy. Palm trees sway along the beachfront promenade, while the golden sands of Las Canteras Beach invite both sunbathers and walkers alike.

Being a Sunday, there’s barely a breeze, and the beach is alive with locals – families gathered for a seaside picnic, groups playing padel and beach volleyball, and artists crafting intricate sand sculptures. From a nearby alleyway, the sounds of a Spanish guitar drift toward us. We settle into a cozy corner café, indulging in a plate of authentic tapas, savoring every bite as we soak up the moment.

Then comes a truly magical experience – the Epiphany Parade, a spectacular celebration filled with dancers, elaborately decorated floats, and wide-eyed children eagerly reaching for handfuls of candy. It’s Spanish Christmas at its best – full of lights, music and pure joy.

Back on board, we continue the cultural immersion with a classic British pub experience at Brodie’s. Known for its extensive selection of ales and ciders, the venue truly comes alive on karaoke nights. A game of pool, a few rounds of pints, and a jukebox playlist spanning from The Beatles to Oasis make for an evening of pure entertainment.

Tenerife: A lend of nature and modernity

The next morning, we wake up in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, the capital of the island. A public holiday keeps the city quieter than usual – remnants of the Christmas parade still dot the streets. Many restaurants set up for big family parties, but you hardly see any locals until lunchtime. We start our exploration with a walk through Parque García Sanabria, a green oasis bursting with exotic fragrances and the soothing sound of chirping birds. The Auditorio de Tenerife, its sleek, curving silhouette gleaming in the sun, provides the perfect backdrop for a photo stop. Back on board, we grab a classic fish and chips lunch, then head to the ship’s aft, where the sail away party has already started. The entertainment team rallies guests for an air guitar competition while the lines are cast off. As Iona gracefully departs the harbor, we turn back for one last glimpse. The scene is almost mystical: the last golden rays of sunlight pierce through the clouds, illuminating the peak of Mount Teide in a golden glow.

Later that evening, we’re treated to Festival at the Headliners Theatre – a high-energy production reminiscent of a lively outdoor music festival, complete with tented set designs and a dazzling, star-lit digital backdrop. Other standout shows, like Sky’s the Limit and Greatest Days (a Take That musical adaptation), bring true West End-caliber entertainment to the high seas. German sister company AIDA Cruises could take a leaf out of their book. Sadly, the Take That musical has been canceled due to an injury to the lead actor, but guest entertainers fill the gap with a varied program ranging from Taylor Swift hits to soulful ballads by great divas. Another highlight is sipping on a cocktail while listening to excellent live music in the exclusive “710 Club”, curated by Gary Barlow.

Family program

Many families take advantage of the holiday season to share experiences together – and P&O Iona offers a wide range of activities. Complimentary kids’ clubs cater for children in an age-appropriate way, from creative activities to gaming stations for teenagers. The interactive experiences with “Shaun the Sheep” and “Wallace & Gromit” are popular. Instead of a water slide, there is an aqua park, while the SkyDome has a covered pool for fun in all weathers. The Children’s Tea in the buffet restaurant offers child-friendly menus. Family cabins, shows and sports facilities such as basketball and table tennis complete the offer – a perfect mix of comfort, entertainment and relaxation for young and old.

Madeira: The enchanted flower island

Our alarm rings just before sunrise as we approach Funchal, Madeira. The crisp morning air carries a touch of ocean mist, but I have no intention of missing this spectacular arrival. Wrapped in the warmth of one of Iona’s infinity pools, I watch as the ship makes a slow, calculated turn into port. Against the darkened hills, twinkling Christmas lights paint the city in a festive glow. A prime benefit of our land-facing stateroom? A front-row seat to enjoy this enchanting view over breakfast on the balcony – fluffy robe, hot coffee, and a fresh pastry in hand.
Madeira’s natural beauty is best experienced from above, so we make our way to the Monte Palace Gardens. Perched high above Funchal, the view stretches over a lush landscape of botanical wonders, with the glittering Atlantic as a breathtaking backdrop. The air is crisp and smells of exotic flowers. The waterfalls trickle soothingly, while the vibrant colors of the tiles and mosaics tell a story that you understand a little better with each new discovery. Instead of the iconic toboggan ride, we opt for a scenic taxi ride back to the Old Town, where the pedestrian streets bustle with oversized nativity scenes, poncha stands, and live folklore performances. A rooftop bar provides the perfect final stop for a drink before we return to our floating sanctuary.

Later that evening, an unexpected delay due to a medical emergency turns into one of the most moving moments of our trip. As our sister ship, P&O Arcadia, departs the harbor, guests from both vessels cheer and wave, illuminating the night with hundreds of glowing phone lights – a beautiful, spontaneous moment of camaraderie at sea. Such an emotional moment brings a tear of joy to my eyes.

I shed another tear in the “Beachhouse Restaurant” that evening. But that was more because the smoke from the surf & turf, served on a hot lava stone, was rising into my eyes. A culinary highlight unlike anything I’ve had on a ship before. As I later learn, this dramatic dining choice even raises concerns among the safety engineers in the engine control room: smoke detectors.

P&O offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, granting access to normally restricted areas of the ship. Photography is strictly prohibited, with even smartphones surrendered beforehand. The experience is well worth it, offering a rare look at the ship’s laundry and provisions rooms, as well as the mooring deck at the bow. Standing among massive winches and ropes, with a close-up view of the anchor chain, is an unforgettable moment. Finally, snacks are served in the “Crow’s Nest”, the elegant bar & lounge above the bridge, and a very nice chat develops with the other guests.

Expansive entertainment and a floating gin distillery

Captain Andrew Wolverson remains largely behind the scenes, making his presence known only through his daily noon announcements. As we sail back toward Southampton, he warns of stronger winds and higher swells, particularly near the Bay of Biscay – a perfect reason to explore more of Iona’s onboard experiences.
Mornings can begin with yoga or stretching, while a round of speed sudoku offers a fun mental workout. The lecture series draws a crowd, with topics ranging from Banksy and Andy Warhol to practical art workshops in drawing and crafts. The casino buzzes with activity, and the entertainment lineup includes everything from game shows and sports competitions to an interactive version of “Deal or No Deal”. A personal favorite is the musical bingo in the SkyDome – it’s not about money, but rather about testing your memory of iconic songs.
The “Limelight Club” hosts an elegant dinner show, blending fine dining with top-tier performances. It’s here that we witness something rare – a queue of guests forming for the first time on this voyage. Guests line up early, eager to snag the best seats for an intimate evening of live music, cabaret, and exclusive performances by celebrated British artists. For an even more unique experience, P&O Iona boasts the world’s only gin distillery at sea. The “Gin Blending Masterclass” allows guests to create and bottle their own custom gin – an unforgettable souvenir from an already memorable journey.

Final evening: Celebration night & a memorable farewell

Our final evening at sea is marked by “Celebration Night”, featuring a special performance by the kitchen crew. At first, the concept of a gala dinner in a buffet restaurant seems unusual. But instead of self-service, tonight’s multi-course meal is elegantly plated and served at the table, adding a refined touch to our farewell dinner. The evening is both delicious and sentimental, as the hardworking kitchen staff receives a well-earned ovation. At first it seems inconceivable that even a 14-day cruise with a few days at sea is not enough to try out everything the P&O Iona has to offer. That’s the magic of this modern mega-ship – every voyage unveils new experiences, fresh flavors, and unexpected delights.

Back in Southampton, we dock near the Queen Mary 2, just returning from a transatlantic crossing. One last photo as the sun rises and the jacuzzis steam up. But be careful, it is slippery on the outside deck. We are back in wintry England, wrapped up warmly and on our way to an individual follow-up program in Windsor.

Conclusion:

Anyone looking for a modern, stylish ship with British charm and international comfort will love the P&O Iona. Its blend of tranquility, fine dining, varied entertainment and elegant British tradition makes it the perfect choice for connoisseurs, couples and cruise newbies looking for a new perspective on big ships cruising. Even without a waterslide, Iona is family-friendly, with children’s entertainment and an indoor pool in the SkyDome.

Don’t miss more updates, news and reviews about P&O Cruises on Cruising Journal with photos, video and cruises on offer.

Josef Eisenberger

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