A maiden cruise like no other

Iona meets Iona

P&O Cruises ship Iona sailing at sea
P&O Cruises ship Iona sailing at sea
P&O Cruises ship Iona sailing at sea
Iona sailing at sea next to some fireworks
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See a VIP (or three)

One of pop’s greatest vocalists, Tony Hadley, will perform live and comedian and TV star Joe Pasquale is the man to go and see for a side-splitting stand-up set. If you head to The Limelight Club, you could catch a cabaret set from revered singer and performer La Voix, whilst the sea-shanty-singing fishermen Sea Hear are also on board with their catchy tunes that you will be humming along to for the rest of the day.

Tony Hadley (Performing in Headliners Theatre - three shows a night, two nights)

Tony Hadley has been known for decades as one of pop music’s greatest vocalists. He enjoyed numerous chart-topping singles and successful albums the world over, including international number one ‘True’ as well as ‘Gold’ and ‘Through the Barricades’ As a solo artist Tony has performed across the world both with his band, swing bands and orchestras and continues to tour today.

Joe Pasquale (Performing in Headliners Theatre - three shows a night, two nights)

Comedian Joe Pasquale has continued to delight audiences with his live stand-up tours for over 30 years. Along the way he’s voiced characters for Hollywood movies Garfield: A Tale of Two Kittens; Horton Hears A Who!; children’s television animation – Frankenstein’s Cat and starred in The Muppets’ 25th Anniversary show.

La Voix (Performing in The Limelight Club - one show a night, three nights)

As a Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist and larger than life star from Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie, La Voix brings a number of divas to life with an elastic voice that encompasses the likes of Cher, Judy Garland and Shirley Bassey. La Voix has performed for the royal family and toured the world with her hit one-woman show, working with everyone from Cilla Black to Pamela Anderson (and has she got some stories to tell!).

Witness Iona’s glittering homecoming

One of the most unforgettable parts of Iona’s maiden cruise will surely be her homecoming celebration. At lunchtime on day three of the holiday, she’ll drop anchor just off the coast of her namesake island and the festivities will truly begin. Themed activities and entertainment will run throughout the afternoon and evening, and you can expect exciting performances from VIP guests. Finally, as a fitting end to this momentous day for the history and the future of cruising, the darkened sky will come alive in a dazzling fireworks display – just for the locals, crew and guests of the two Ionas. And, after the last flash of colour, you might choose to stay out on deck or your balcony to admire the beautiful Hebrides sky – a renowned spot for stargazing.

And across all of Iona's maiden season

A taste of things to come

As well as jaw-dropping views of Britain’s coastlines, Iona’s maiden cruise will bring you mouth-watering flavours from many of the beautiful places you sail by. So, with 17 dining venues to choose from, you might find yourself tucking into a taste of the Scilly Isles with white crab cakes and Jersey Royal potatoes; Scottish venison served with neeps and tatties; or West Lothian dry aged, grass fed steak.

It’s almost showtime!

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll discover a huge variety of entertainment throughout the day and evening – from guest talks and comedians to spontaneous buskers and live music.

Fancy a wee tipple?

From lip-smacking mocktails to aromatic coffee, Iona’s bars and cafés serve up a huge choice of drinks, not to mention breathtaking panoramas. On this special holiday, you could even savour a glass of Marabelle Gin while chatting to the people who make the unique recipe for Iona with flavours inspired by her namesake isle. Or you might try Fable Whisky, which will celebrate its global launch on board.

How will you tailor your break?

Whether you’re keen to spend your whole holiday chilling out, trying new things, or finding a balance of both, there’s so much you can do aboard Iona. One day, you might admire the views while swimming in the Infinity Pool or lazing on a lounger with a coffee in SkyDome. The next, you could browse the inspiring range of art featured in the Whitewall Galleries or check out the latest styles in the shops. And for the ultimate in relaxation, a wellness programme can be tailored just for you.

Iona's long-awaited arrival into Southampton