Life on board Ionas Christmas Cruise in Covid Times

On the 18th of December 2021 two of my friends took a cruise onboard P&O Cruises, Iona for 18 nights. They have been kind enough to send me some updates and feedback about their trip and what it was like cruising during the coronavirus pandemic.

Captain Robert Camby set off for Iona’s Christmas cruise and it sounded like many were having a great time onboard. Captain Robert Camby celebrated the birth of his son Jenson whilst onboard who is only 11 weeks old and went really above and beyond in making all his passengers feel safe onboard with lots of enjoyment along the way.

At each port, every passenger was required to have a lateral flow test and this was no different on arrival in Madera. Sadly, following the results of the LFT tests, 8 passengers tested positive and were assigned special isolation cabins on board before they had to disembark in Tenerife for Isolation. Heartbreaking to hear for everyone affected.

Shortly afterwards Robert Camby announced that the Gym, Spa and Sauna would close. Luckily the theatre and entertainment venues would remain open and performances would continue with socially distanced seating. Christmas Day came and many passengers made a huge effort to dress in Christmas Jumpers and there was a great atmosphere on board. Jenny and John dined in Epicurean for their Christmas Dinner and wow what a great time they had.

You know an amazing captain is steering the ship when on Christmas Day he announced he was going to sail off the coast of the Islands so passengers could pick up a mobile signal to be able to wish friends and family a Happy Christmas as this was a sea day.

Iona continues to sail from the Canaries back home via Spain, the weather has been amazing and all passengers are enjoying their cruise and entertainment onboard. Jenny and John said they actually feel safer on board than at home. Thank you Jenny and John for your updates on board and I’m so pleased you are thoroughly enjoying your holiday.

Many Thanks, Holly 

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If you’re interested in getting onboard Iona or any other cruise in the future, please feel free to call me on 0800 408 6114  and I’ll be happy to help.