Iona – too big, too plain, too boring?

We’ve all seen the latest ‘artists impressions’ of P&O’s latest megaship, Iona. What do we think?

Here are a few details of what to expect from this absolute monster of a ship, the biggest ever cruise ship built for the UK Market, with a sister following shortly behind in 2022.

A four-screen cinema as well as a ‘pleasure dome’ entertainment hub and a gastropub are among details of P&O Cruises new megaship Iona revealed today (Monday).

The 5,200-passenger ship, due to enter service in 2020, will see on board entertainment being the focus of the SkyDome, including a “hidden” night club and boutique cinema.

Located on decks 16 and 17, the all-weather SkyDome will feature a giant roof and a pool with retractable stage.

Award-winning British engineers Eckersley O’Callaghan, the firm behind glass structures such as London’s Embassy Gardens Sky Pool and Bulgari’s flagship New York boutique, has designed the glazed dome roof.

The 710 Club is being billed as Iona’s ‘secret spot’ with the decor and atmosphere of a Convent Garden nightspot for cocktails and live music.

iona_cocktailbar

Ocean Studios will include four cinema screens showing a mixture of classics and recent blockbusters throughout the day using the latest surround sound technology.

The Keel and Cow, with views through three storey-high glass walls of the Grand Atrium, will offer gastropub dishes including steaks chosen from a glass-fronted dry aging fridge.

A range of self-service and takeaway venues will make up The Quays piazza, with offerings ranging from Asian street food to American diner classics.

With a choice of 30 different venues, many open from early morning until late at night, P&O Cruises claims Iona will offer the widest ever selection of places to eat and drink on a ship built exclusively for the British cruise holiday market.

Dining available on other ships in the fleet will be incorporated onto Iona including The Glass House wine and food bar, formal restaurant Epicurean; Sindhu serving speciality Indian cuisine and Brodie’s bar.

So, are they going too big? Too bold? Of course the ship sounds amazing, but with the announcement of Oriana leaving the fleet, are P&O forgetting about their regular clients and really looking for just new customers?

You be the judge!

Happy Cruising,

Ed x