Last week we had the opportunity to visit MEYER WERFT and get up close and personal with Iona, P&O cruises’ new ship which is set to enter service in May.
With 5,200-guest capacity, Iona will be the largest ship ever built to serve the UK market. P1O Cruises’ new vessel will feature enhancements to already successful brand signature venues from the existing fleet, as well as features newly developed for Iona. These include a breathtaking three deck Grand Atrium in the heart of the ship as well as SkyDome – an exclusively designed glass dome – offering a unique space for both relaxing in all weathers and providing entertainment, featuring aerial performers and a wealth of live acts. Iona will offer street food experiences, a fun gelateria, a four-screen cinema complex and extraordinary pop-up performances making it the ultimate holiday destination for families. Iona will also feature the world’s first gin distillery at sea.
In addition to the most luxurious wellness facility in the P&O Cruises fleet, the new ship will offer innovative new Conservatory Mini-suite cabins, giving an additional stylish space. There will be over 17 places to dine including The Keel and Cow for perfectly cooked steaks and The Glass House with around 40 wines chosen by wine expert Olly Smith and Indian restaurant Sindhu.
Iona is the 50th cruise ship constructed at the MEYER WERFT in Papenburg, Germany, and she will be the next generation of P&O Cruises ships as the first British cruise ship to be powered by LNG (liquefied natural gas).
During her inaugural summer season Iona will be sailing exclusively to the Norwegian Fjords. In winter Iona will sail south to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands for winter sun as well as visits to spectacular cities in northern Europe.
