Discovering P&O Iona: The Ultimate Guide to the UK's Favourite Modern Cruise Ship

By Tom and Dom Travel | Updated:

12/07/26

P&O Iona docked at Ocean Terminal in Southampton

When P&O Cruises launched Iona, it marked a new chapter for British cruising. As the largest ship ever built for the P&O fleet, Iona combines contemporary design, innovative entertainment spaces and a wide range of dining options, creating a cruise experience tailored specifically to the UK market.

Whether you're considering your first cruise or you're a seasoned cruiser looking to try one of P&O's most popular ships, here's everything you need to know about Iona.

A New Era for P&O Cruises

Iona was designed to be a ship unlike any other in the P&O fleet. Built by Meyer Werft in Germany, she became the first liquefied natural gas (LNG) powered ship in the fleet, representing a significant step towards more environmentally conscious cruising.

Named after the Scottish island of Iona, the ship was designed with a distinctly British feel while embracing a modern, open-plan layout that makes the most of sea views and natural light.

The Numbers Behind Iona

Iona is an impressive vessel by any standard. The ship measures approximately 344 metres in length and has a gross tonnage of over 184,000 tonnes. She can carry more than 5,000 guests and around 1,800 crew members, making her one of the largest cruise ships sailing from the UK.

With 19 decks and over 2,600 cabins, Iona offers accommodation options for every budget, from inside cabins to luxurious suites with expansive balconies.

Despite her size, the ship has been designed to feel spacious and welcoming, with wide promenades, large public areas and plenty of places to relax.

Prefer to Watch?

P&O Iona ULTIMATE SHIP TOUR! With our TOP HINTS and TIPS!

This is our full and complete P&O Iona Ship Tour. We sailed on P&O Iona for a 7 night Northern Europe cruise which visited ports in Germany, The Netherlands and Belgium. We have put together this ship tour and guide that is deck by deck covering all venues and areas onboard that are accessible to passengers. We have also included our top hints and tips to help you navigate the ship.

Tom and Dom Travel at the Silent Disco on P&O Iona in the Skydome

Accommodation Options

Iona offers a wide variety of cabin categories. Guests can choose from inside cabins, sea view cabins, balcony cabins, conservatory mini-suites and larger suites. Balcony accommodation is particularly popular, allowing passengers to enjoy the sea air and changing scenery throughout their voyage.

The ship also introduced a number of single cabins, making cruising more accessible for solo travellers. Families are well catered for too, with family-friendly cabins and interconnecting options available across multiple categories.

The Skydome

One of Iona's most distinctive features is the Skydome. Located at the top of the ship, this enormous glass-roofed venue acts as both a daytime leisure area and an evening entertainment space.

During the day, guests can relax by the pool regardless of the weather, making it perfect for Northern European itineraries where sunshine cannot always be guaranteed.

As evening arrives, the space transforms into a theatre-style venue featuring live music, production shows and special events.

The Skydome has become one of the defining features of the ship and helps ensure that outdoor-style entertainment can continue in almost any weather conditions.

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Dom from Tom and Dom Travel, dining in the Olive Grove on P&O Iona

Dining on Board

One of Iona's biggest strengths is the variety of dining options available.

Included in the cruise fare are four main dining rooms, each serving the same menu but offering slightly different atmospheres. Guests can also enjoy casual dining at The Quays, Horizon Buffet, Olive Grove and Taste 360.

The Quays is particularly popular thanks to its mix of fish and chips, Asian-inspired dishes and classic burgers.

For those seeking something extra special, speciality restaurants include:

The Epicurean

Keel & Cow

Sindhu

The Limelight Club

The Beach House

The Glass House

These venues offer everything from fine dining and premium steaks to Indian cuisine and entertainment-led dining experiences.

Entertainment and Nightlife

Entertainment is another area where Iona excels. The Headliners Theatre hosts large-scale production shows and guest performers, while Ocean Studios provides a dedicated cinema experience.

Music lovers can enjoy the intimate atmosphere of the 710 Club, created in partnership with Gary Barlow, while the Limelight Club combines dining and live performances in one venue.

Other popular venues include Brodie's pub, Anderson's Bar, Emerald Bar and the elegant Crow's Nest, which offers panoramic views from the forward section of the ship.

The Adult Only Beachcomber Bar and Pool on Deck 18 of P&O Iona

Outdoor Spaces and Pools

Iona features several pool areas designed to suit different styles of cruising. At the aft of the ship, two infinity pools provide stunning sea views and have become one of the ship's most photographed locations.

The Beachcomber Pool offers an adults-only environment, while multiple hot tubs can be found throughout the ship.

A full wraparound promenade deck gives guests the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and ocean views while walking around the ship.

Spa, Fitness and Wellness

For those looking to relax, Iona's spa complex includes treatment rooms, thermal facilities, heated loungers, steam rooms and saunas.

The fitness centre is one of the largest in the fleet and features modern gym equipment, fitness classes and dedicated exercise spaces. Outdoor sports facilities include a multi-use sports court, golf nets and deck games.

Shopping and Other Facilities

Iona's shopping area is extensive, offering everything from luxury brands and jewellery to souvenirs and duty-free goods. Guests will also find libraries, lounges, coffee shops, laundry facilities and numerous quiet spaces throughout the ship.

The overall design focuses on creating a modern, airy atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary décor.

Tom from Tom and Dom Travel, standing by the Iona sign in the SkyDome on P&O Iona

Is Iona Right for You?

Iona is ideal for travellers who enjoy modern cruise ships packed with facilities, dining options and entertainment. Families will appreciate the variety of activities available, while couples can find quieter spaces such as the Crow's Nest or Anderson's for a more relaxed experience.

Although the ship can feel busy when sailing at full capacity, the huge range of venues means there is usually something for everyone.

For many cruisers, Iona represents the future of British cruising: modern, stylish and packed with experiences from morning until late into the evening. Whether you're relaxing by an infinity pool, enjoying a West End-style production or dining in one of the speciality restaurants, there's no doubt that Iona has become one of the standout ships in the UK cruise market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Skydome on P&O Iona special?

The Skydome is a massive glass-roofed venue at the top of the ship. During the day, it serves as a pool and leisure relaxation area that protects guests from the weather. At night, it transforms into an entertainment hub featuring live music, aerial shows, and production events.

What dining options are included in the standard cruise fare?

Guests can dine at four main dining rooms (all serving the same menu in distinct atmospheres), the Horizon Buffet, The Olive Grove, Taste 360, and The Quays, which offers casual options like fish and chips, burgers, and Asian-inspired dishes.

Is P&O Iona suitable for solo travelers and families?

Yes. Iona features dedicated single cabins specifically for solo travelers. For families, the ship provides interconnecting cabins, family-friendly accommodation categories, and a massive variety of activities and entertainment tailored for all ages.

What kind of evening entertainment can I expect on board?

The ship offers full-scale production shows at the Headliners Theatre, a cinema at Ocean Studios, and live music at the 710 Club (curated by Gary Barlow). You can also experience dining paired with live performances at the Limelight Club, or visit various bars like Brodie's pub and the Crow's Nest.

How does P&O Iona handle swimming and poolside relaxation in poor weather?

The ship features an enormous glass-roofed venue called the SkyDome. During the day, it acts as a covered pool and leisure area that allows passengers to swim and relax poolside regardless of rain or cold weather, making it ideal for Northern European cruises.

About the Authors

We’re Tom and Dom, the creators behind Tom and Dom Travel. Through our ship reviews, cabin tours, port guides, and cruise tips, we share honest, experience-led advice from our travels around the world. Everything we publish is designed to help you cruise with confidence.

Thanks for reading, and happy cruising.