Agents Mair Jones and Chris Bordessa, who run Bordessa Holidays in Carmarthen, Wales, were among guests on P&O Cruises’ new ship, Iona.
Mair shared her impressions of the ship with Travel Gossip.
Embarkation
The embarkation was carried out very well, with P&O allowing a few at a time to board. We were asked to show our tests results and given our Covid bands before entering the terminal building.
First impressions
The ship looked great. The decks and pools were inviting and the infinity hot tubs were a lovely touch. The sky dome is a great idea as you can be undercover on rainy days and still enjoy the pool and lovely seating area.
Accommodation
We had a balcony cabin on deck 9, with a lovely view, mid-ship. The bathroom was stunning, the bed was very comfy and we had a large sofa in the room.
Covid procedure
I felt very safe considering we haven’t being around so many people for over a year and half.
Some of the seats on the bars and in the theatres weren’t available, so there was space for social distancing. Everyone wore masks walking around the ship. When entering the buffet are we were asked to wash our hands first. The public toilets have automatic doors in and out – you need your cabin key.
Eating and drinking
There are over 20 restaurants, including five a la carte restaurants, the buffet, as well as fish and chips, burger and pizza outlets.
There’s a great selection of drinks in the bars and all the bars currently operate a table service, due to Covid.
Mair’s tips
Book early for the restaurants on the app to ensure you are finished in time for the shows. There is lots of entertainment and 11pm is the last show for a few of them.
Cabin-wise, I recommend from deck 10 upwards for balcony views, and the promenade can get noisy early in the morning.
