P&O Cruises Iona Ship Visit: March 2026

A P&O Iona ship tour offers an immersive look at Britain's largest cruise ship. My March 14, 2026, visit revealed contemporary cabins, diverse public spaces like the SkyDome, and a high-quality buffet experience, confirming Iona as a top choice for modern, relaxed cruising for families and couples alike.

On the 14th of March, 2026, I had the distinct pleasure of visiting this remarkable ship to conduct a comprehensive tour. The goal was simple: to walk the decks, see some of the cabins, and taste the culinary offerings to ensure I can provide my clients at Wright Destinations with the most accurate, first-hand advice possible. Choosing the right holiday is a personal journey, and seeing a ship in person allows me to match the right traveler to the right cabin. Whether you are looking for Cruise Offers or planning a bespoke luxury getaway, understanding the physical layout and atmosphere of a ship like Iona is essential. Location of your cabin is a personal thing , do you want to be near the lifts? a quieter area or nearer the restaurants - the deck plans will show you the exact location of your cabin and I can help you locate your ideal one.

What is the Grand Atrium experience like on Iona?

The heart of any ship is its atrium, but the Grand Atrium on Iona is something truly special. As I walked in, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the three-deck-high glass walls. These aren’t just windows; they are panoramic portals to the ocean, designed to bring the outside in. The natural light that floods this space on a clear March day is spectacular, highlighting the contemporary decor that feels more like a high-end boutique hotel than a traditional cruise liner.

The Grand Atrium serves as a social hub, where guests can enjoy a coffee, a cocktail, or simply sit and watch the world go by. The design is fluid, with elegant staircases and comfortable seating areas that encourage conversation. During my visit, I noticed how the space transitions seamlessly from a quiet morning spot to a vibrant evening venue. It is the perfect place to start your journey, perhaps after checking the latest offers to see which itinerary best suits your schedule. The use of neutral tones, mixed with splashes of nautical blue and polished metallics, creates an atmosphere that is sophisticated yet welcoming. It sets the tone for the rest of the ship, promising a holiday that is as much about the environment as it is about the destination.

Inside the Cabins: What to Expect on Iona

During my tour, I was able to inspect several cabin categories, which is always the most requested information from my clients. Iona’s cabins are designed with a focus on functionality and modern aesthetics. The palette is calming, utilizing light woods and soft textiles to create a private sanctuary at sea. We looked at a standard inside cabins to a suite, and the consistency in quality was impressive across all levels. One of the standout features of Iona is the Conservatory Mini-Suite. This innovative cabin type includes a dedicated glass-enclosed lounge area between the main cabin and the balcony, providing a versatile space that can be opened up or kept cozy depending on the weather. This is a game-changer for those sailing in cooler climates or for those who simply want a bit more private indoor-outdoor living space.

When evaluating the cabins, I looked for the small details that make a big difference:

• Ample storage space with clever shelving and wardrobe layouts.
• Conveniently placed USB charging points and UK three-pin sockets.
• High-quality bedding and linens that promise a restful night’s sleep.
• Modern, clean bathrooms with powerful showers and elegant fixtures.
• Spacious balconies with comfortable furniture for private morning coffees.

Seeing these rooms in person confirmed that Iona caters to various budgets , If you are browsing our Cruise Search tool, knowing that even the smaller cabins feel airy and well-planned should give you great peace of mind.

Exploring the SkyDome and Entertainment Spaces

Moving away from the quiet of the cabins, I headed toward the SkyDome, one of Iona’s most talked-about features. This impressive structure is a massive glass dome that covers a pool area by day and transforms into a spectacular entertainment venue by night. The engineering required to create such a vast, pillarless space is incredible. During the day, the atmosphere is akin to a tropical resort, with plenty of sunlight and a relaxed vibe. It’s an ideal spot for families to enjoy the water regardless of the external temperature. As evening falls, the pool is covered, and the space becomes a stage for aerial acrobats, live music, and light shows. The transition is seamless, and the acoustics within the dome are surprisingly crisp.

Beyond the SkyDome, I explored The Club House and the 710 Club. The latter is a sophisticated, intimate venue curated by Gary Barlow, focusing on live music and high-quality cocktails. It feels exclusive and moody, perfect for those who appreciate a late-night jazz or soul set. The variety of venues on Iona ensures that there is always a space that matches your mood, whether you want high-energy performances or a quiet corner for a glass of wine. The ship is designed to avoid the feeling of overcrowding, with many different bars and lounges spread across the decks. This layout allows for a natural flow of passengers, ensuring that even on a ship of this size, you can always find a comfortable spot to sit and relax. This versatility is a core part of what makes Iona such a popular choice for those booking via Wright Destinations, as it offers something for every generation within a family group.

Is the buffet lunch on P&O Iona worth it?

No ship tour is complete without a culinary evaluation, and for this visit, I focused on the Horizon Restaurant, Iona’s main buffet. Buffets can often be a point of contention for cruisers, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and variety on offer. The layout is spacious, with multiple service stations that prevent long queues and congestion. The food was fresh, well-presented, and spanned a wide range of international cuisines. From traditional British roasts to authentic curries and fresh salads, the selection was vast. I sampled a few different dishes, and the flavors were balanced and authentic. The dessert station, in particular, was a highlight, featuring a range of delicate pastries and cakes that looked as good as they tasted.

Key takeaways from the buffet experience included:

• High standards of cleanliness and frequent replenishment of food.
• A dedicated section for dietary requirements, including gluten-free and vegan options.
• Friendly and efficient staff who were quick to clear tables and assist guests.
• Live cooking stations where chefs prepare fresh dishes to order.
• Breathtaking views from the floor-to-ceiling windows while you dine.

The casual dining atmosphere of the Horizon Restaurant makes it a great option for a quick lunch between activities or a relaxed dinner. For those who prefer a more formal setting, Iona offers numerous specialty restaurants, but the buffet remains a solid, high-quality staple for daily dining. It’s clear that P&O has invested in ensuring the buffet experience feels premium rather than just functional.

How does Iona compare to other P&O ships?

Having seen various ships in the P&O fleet, Iona definitely represents a shift toward a more modern, lifestyle-oriented cruising style. While older ships like Aurora or Arcadia have a more traditional, classic feel, Iona (and her sister ship Arvia) is built for the modern traveler who values choice and contemporary design. It feels larger and more open, with a greater emphasis on entertainment and diverse dining options. For families, Iona is undoubtedly the superior choice due to the extensive children’s clubs and the sheer variety of activities available. However, for those who prefer a smaller, more intimate ship with a higher crew-to-guest ratio, the traditional fleet members still hold significant appeal.

My visit on the 14th of March highlighted that Iona is a ship designed for the 'new to cruise' market as much as for seasoned sailors. It breaks down the stuffy stereotypes of cruising, offering a relaxed environment where you can be as active or as lazy as you choose. When I speak to my clients about their preferences, I always weigh these factors. If you want a bustling, vibrant atmosphere with endless options, Iona is the ship for you. If you are still unsure, I recommend visiting our About page to learn more about my personal approach to travel consulting, or simply Contact me to discuss which ship in the P&O fleet would best suit your personal style. Every traveler is unique, and my job is to ensure that your holiday reflects that uniqueness through careful curation and expert knowledge.

Essential Takeaways from my Iona Ship Tour

Visiting P&O Iona was a valuable experience that reaffirmed my confidence in recommending this ship to my clients. The combination of innovative design, high-quality dining, and diverse entertainment makes it a standout choice in the current cruise market. From the light-filled Grand Atrium to the clever Conservatory Mini-Suites, every aspect of the ship has been thought through to maximize guest comfort and enjoyment.

• Modern Design: The ship feels like a contemporary luxury resort, moving away from traditional dark woods and heavy fabrics. Iona entered service in 2021 and can carry up to 5,200 passengers and has approx 1,800 crew
• Departs from Southampton: no flying and as much luggage as you like !
• British Pounds Sterling: Your onboard account is charged in British Pounds - no need to convert currency!
• Dining Variety: The Horizon buffet offers excellent quality, but the specialty restaurants provide even more culinary depth.- Sindhi, Epicurean, The Glass House, The Keel & Cow, Olive Grove
• Innovative Accommodations: The Conservatory Mini-Suite is a must-try for those who value private indoor-outdoor space. Accessible and solo cabins also available
• Family Friendly: With the SkyDome and extensive kids' clubs, it is one of the best ships for multi-generational travel.
• Financial Protection: Remember that every booking made through Wright Destinations, in partnership with New Travel Holidays (ABTA P8763), is fully financially protected.

In conclusion, my day on Iona was both productive and inspiring. The ship is a testament to where the cruise industry is heading—more choice, better design, and a focus on the guest experience. Whether you are ready to book your next adventure or are just starting to explore the possibility of a cruise, I am here to help you navigate the options. A cruise on Iona is more than just a holiday; it is an opportunity to see the world from a beautifully designed home at sea. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the ship or if you would like to see the full gallery of photos from my visit. I look forward to helping you plan your next extraordinary journey.