Iona - Cruises from $518

P&O Cruises

Iona  Cruise Ship - P&O Cruises Iona  on iCruise.com

Last Updated: August 2026 | Reviewed by: Daniela Cervantes, Staff Writer

P&O Cruises' Iona represents a bold step forward in modern ocean travel, combining expansive contemporary design with an innovative approach to British cruising. As the lead ship of the Excellence-class for the line, this LNG-powered vessel offers an elevated onboard experience that centers around bright, open spaces, panoramic sea views, and a massive array of dining and entertainment venues tailored to every style of traveler.

Iona Facts and Statistics

  • Cruise Line P&O Cruises
  • Year Built 2021
  • Year Refurbished 2025
  • Ship's Class/Group Contemporary
  • Passengers (Max Occupancy) 6264 Passengers
  • Number of Crew 1762
  • Country of Registry United Kingdom

Iona Ship Information

At the heart of the ship is the Grand Atrium, a dramatic three-deck centerpiece framed by soaring glass walls that flood the interior with natural light and frame uninterrupted ocean views. From the iconic SkyDome venue-featuring a poolside retreat by day and dynamic aerial shows by night?to an impressive choice of over 30 dining and bar concepts, Iona delivers a refined, highly flexible getaway for families, couples, and solo guests alike.

  • Ship Overview & Atmosphere: Designed with a focus on seamless indoor-outdoor living, Iona emphasizes spaciousness and scenic connection. Guests can stroll along the outdoor Promenade Deck, relax in whirlpool tubs suspended over the ocean, or gather in vibrant communal lounges designed for day-to-night transitions.
  • Dining & Culinary Concepts: The vessel revolutionizes onboard dining with its flexible "Freedom Dining" model. Alongside traditional main dining rooms, guests can explore specialty destinations like the Epicurean for fine dining, Sindhu for authentic Indian cuisine, The Glass House for curated wine pairings, and the casual Beach House featuring Caribbean and South American flavors.
  • Entertainment & Activities: Highlights include Ocean Studios?a four-screen cinema complex?alongside Headliners Theatre for West End-style productions, and the Grand Atrium for pop-up acoustic performances. The SkyDome serves as an all-weather central hub, hosting deck parties, movie screenings, and high-flying circus acts beneath its glass dome.
  • Accommodations: Iona features a wide range of stateroom options, including the line's popular Conservatory Mini-Suites, which feature a dedicated glass-enclosed lounging zone between the cabin interior and the private balcony. Standard options span balcony cabins, sea view staterooms, interior quarters, and dedicated single cabins for solo travelers.
  • Sustainability & Technology: As one of the earliest cruise ships powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), Iona significantly reduces exhaust emissions and environmental impact, utilizing cutting-edge maritime technologies to optimize fuel efficiency and power management at sea.
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