I recently had the pleasure of sailing on P&O Cruises’ newest ship, Iona, and let me tell you, it was an experience like no other. As soon as I stepped on board, I was greeted with a sense of excitement and adventure that I haven’t felt in a long time.
From the endless dining options to the family-friendly activities, I knew that I was in for a cruise filled with fun and relaxation. For families looking for a getaway that’s both entertaining and stress-free, Iona is the perfect choice.
With its kids clubs split into different age groups, there’s something for every child to enjoy. And with the ship’s COVID-19 changes, I felt confident that my family and I were in safe hands.
So, if you’re looking for a break from the everyday and a chance to explore some of Europe’s most beautiful destinations, then look no further than P&O Iona for a family fun adventure on the high seas!
- P&O Cruises’ new ship Iona offers various kids clubs split into different age groups, as well as other family-friendly places such as The Splash Zone, The Nursery, and Ocean Studios.
- The ship features a wide range of restaurants and bars, with some particularly great for kids such as Taste 360, The Boardwalk Diner, and Hook Line and Vinegar, and the Horizon buffet restaurant serves a special kids tea every day at around 5 pm.
- Families can enjoy child-friendly excursions in Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, as well as exciting excursions in the Norwegian Fjords.
- The ship can accommodate 5,000+ passengers and 1,500 crew, and has four swimming pools and 24 hot tubs, with some located in adults-only areas.
Ship Overview
I’m excited to learn more about the ship overview of P&O Iona. This ship offers a variety of family-friendly facilities such as kids clubs, restaurants, and excursions. With a capacity of over 5,000 passengers and 1,500 crew members, it’s perfect for families looking for a fun-filled vacation on the high seas.
One of the standout features of Iona is the selection of onboard facilities. It includes four swimming pools, 24 hot tubs, and a four-screen cinema complex. In addition to these amenities, Iona also offers over 30 restaurants and bars, offering a range of dining options for families.
From the Horizon buffet restaurant, which serves a special kids tea every day, to the Boardwalk Diner and Hook Line and Vinegar, there is something for everyone. The ship also boasts four main restaurants offering Freedom Dining, with a kids menu available.
With so much to explore onboard, I can’t wait to see what other facilities Iona has to offer.
Kids Clubs and Activities
During my research, I discovered that the Scubas club for 9-12-year-olds on P&O Cruises’ new ship, Iona, offers not only computer games and air hockey but also organized activities, making it a great option for parents looking for more structured entertainment for their kids.
The club hosts crafting activities and themed days, such as pirate day or circus day, where kids can participate in a range of fun activities. With a dedicated team of staff trained to engage with children, parents can rest assured that their kids are in good hands while they enjoy some adult-only time on board.
Apart from the Scubas club, Iona also offers other kids clubs such as Splashers for 2-4-year-olds and Surfers for 5-8-year-olds. The ship also has a dedicated area called Scene for teenagers, where they can chill out and enjoy gaming technology.
With a range of options available for different age groups, parents can find the perfect fit for their children, and the whole family can enjoy a fun-filled vacation on board the ship.
Family-Friendly Restaurants
There are over 30 restaurants and bars on board the P&O Iona, making it easy to find a family-friendly option for every meal. From casual dining to fine dining, there is something for everyone.
The Horizon buffet restaurant is open around the clock and serves a special kids tea every day at around 5 pm. The Boardwalk Diner is a great option for families with its American-style menu and outdoor seating. Taste 360 offers a panoramic view of the sea while serving up delicious dishes. Hook Line and Vinegar is perfect for fish and chips lovers. And for those looking for a more formal dining experience, there are four main restaurants offering Freedom Dining, with a kids menu.
Kid friendly menu options are available at most restaurants on board, making it easy for families to enjoy a meal together. Dining reservations can be made in advance to ensure a stress-free dining experience. The ship also has two Ripples ice-cream bars, perfect for a sweet treat after a meal.
With so many options available, families can try something new every day. The P&O Iona truly has something for everyone when it comes to dining.
Entertainment and Excursions
With an array of exciting shore excursions and a multitude of entertainment options on board, exploring new destinations and having fun on the high seas has never been more exhilarating.
P&O Iona offers a range of top excursions that cater to families, including child-friendly tours in Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, as well as exciting excursions in the Norwegian Fjords. Some of these excursions are suitable for children as young as 2 years old, making it a great opportunity for families to bond and explore together.
On board entertainment is also a highlight of the P&O Iona experience. The ship features a four-screen cinema complex, where guests can enjoy free movies and shows. There are also pop-up performances in standout spaces such as the grand atrium and the SkyDome, featuring aerial performers and circus acts.
Families can enjoy the various kids clubs on board, including The Splashers club for 2-4-year-olds and The Surfers club for 5-8-year-olds. Teenagers can also enjoy their own space in Scene, a chill-out area with gaming technology.
With so many exciting entertainment options, guests of all ages are sure to have a memorable time on board P&O Iona.
Accommodations and Sleeping Arrangements
I’m interested in the accommodations and sleeping arrangements on board the P&O cruise ship, especially for families with children.
I’ve heard that the Iona has a range of options, from cozy inside cabins to luxurious suites. For those looking for a little extra space and comfort, there are plenty of suite options available, which offer larger living areas, balconies, and even butler service.
But if you’re looking for something a little more budget-friendly, there are also plenty of smaller cabins available, which are perfect for families with young children. These cabins may be a little snug, but they offer everything you need for a comfortable night’s sleep, including cozy beds and plenty of storage space.
Overall, I’m excited to explore the range of accommodations on board the Iona and find the perfect option for my family.
Covid-19 Changes
Due to the current Covid-19 situation, I’m interested to know what changes have been made on board the P&O cruise ship to ensure the safety of all passengers.
Firstly, P&O has implemented capacity restrictions to reduce the number of passengers on board, allowing for social distancing measures to be followed. In addition, the company has introduced health protocols such as regular cleaning and disinfecting of the ship, mandatory mask-wearing in certain areas, and pre-boarding health screenings.
Secondly, P&O has updated their refund policies to provide more flexibility for passengers whose travel plans have been impacted by Covid-19 restrictions. The company has also set vaccination requirements for all passengers and crew members, ensuring that everyone on board is protected against the virus. Furthermore, P&O is closely monitoring travel restrictions and will make adjustments to their itineraries as necessary to comply with local regulations.
These changes may seem daunting, but they are necessary to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew members.
Personal Experiences and Recommendations
During my time on board the ship, I highly recommend spending some time in the SkyDome, where you can enjoy pop-up performances and breathtaking views. I still vividly remember the incredible aerial performance that left me in awe. The SkyDome is also a great place to relax with a drink and watch the world go by. I recommend trying the signature cocktails at the bar while taking in the beautiful scenery.
Another one of my top recommendations is to try out the kids clubs on board. My granddaughter had a blast at the Splashers club, where she got to play with slides and arts and crafts activities. It was a relief to have some adult-only time while knowing that she was having fun and being well taken care of.
Overall, my favorite memories from the cruise involve spending quality time with my family and enjoying the many amenities and activities offered on board the Iona.
Additional tips and Resources
When planning your family’s cruise on the new P&O ship, it’s important to consider the latest information and capacity restrictions for the kids clubs. These clubs are a great way for your children to make new friends and enjoy age-appropriate activities while you have some adult-only time. However, due to COVID-19 restrictions, the club capacity and hours of operation may be limited, so it’s best to check with P&O Cruises before booking.
To help you plan your family’s cruise, here’s a table with some booking advice and age restrictions to keep in mind when considering the kids clubs:
| Kids Club | Age Group | Capacity Restrictions |
|---|---|---|
| Splashers | 2-4 years old | Limited capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions |
| Surfers | 5-8 years old | Limited capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions |
| Scubas | 9-12 years old | Limited capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions |
| Scene | 13-17 years old | Limited capacity due to COVID-19 restrictions |
By checking the latest information and capacity restrictions for the kids clubs, you can ensure that your children have a safe and enjoyable experience on board the P&O Iona. Don’t forget to also check out the other family-friendly facilities, restaurants, and excursions available to make the most of your family vacation!
What is the price range for a family cruise on P&O Iona?
A family cruise on P&O Iona offers budget options, but prices vary depending on the duration of the trip, cabin type, and itinerary. It’s worth checking the latest deals and promotions before booking. Comparing prices with other cruise lines can also help.
Are there any restrictions on which excursions families can participate in with young children?
Excursion options on P&O Iona cater to families with children, but child safety is a top priority. Some excursions may have age restrictions, but P&O Cruises offers child-friendly options in several destinations. Contact the company for details.
What is the policy for children with special needs or disabilities on P&O Iona?
Isn’t it ironic that P&O Iona, with its state-of-the-art facilities, doesn’t provide enough information on accessibility accommodations and specialized staff training for children with special needs or disabilities? This information is crucial for families seeking freedom to travel.
Is there a limit on how many children can be in the kids clubs at one time?
Yes, there are limits on how many children can be in the kids clubs at one time for safety reasons. Kids club activities are split by age group and supervised by qualified staff to ensure a fun and safe experience for all.
Are there any age restrictions for the adult-only areas on P&O Iona?
Navigating the adult-only areas on P&O Iona can be tricky. While there are no strict age restrictions, some areas may not be suitable for younger guests. I recommend checking with the staff before venturing into these spaces.