New ship Iona joins P&O Cruises
P&O Cruises has taken delivery of its new cruise ship Iona – set to be the largest cruise ship ever built for the UK market.
At 185,000 tonnes and 345 metres in length, the ship will have 17 guest decks boasting an on-board gin distillery (the first ever at sea), a luxurious spa, eight speciality restaurants, four swimming pools and 13 entertainment venues.
The cruise line officially took delivery of Iona at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany on Friday.
Iona had originally been set to make her debut in May 2020, but this was delayed due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on the cruise industry.
P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow described Iona’s delivery as a ‘very positive signal for the future of cruising’.
"She is now officially part of the P&O Cruises fleet and we are focused on readying her to welcome guests during her new maiden season to Northern Europe, Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands from our home port of Southampton."
"Already eagerly anticipated by our guests, crew and the communities we visit, events this year have increased the sense of anticipation even more."
"Whilst our operations are currently paused until early 2021 Iona will not be sailing for the moment but we look forward to our guests experiencing this game-changing ship as we will continue to offer unparalleled holidays at sea whilst also upholding the latest approved travel protocols."
By Louise Longman, Contributing Editor (UK)
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