VIDEO: P&O UK takes delivery of its new cruise ship, Iona

   October 12, 2020 ,   Cruise Industry

P&O Cruises took delivery of its new ship - Iona.

At 185,000 GT and 345 m in length with 17 passenger decks, Iona will be the largest cruise ship ever constructed for the UK market.

The cruise company officially took delivery of the newbuild at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany on Friday, October 9.

P&O Iona had originally been scheduled to debut in May 2020, but her launch was delayed due to the impact of the pandemic on the industry. P&O Cruises has temporarily suspended all sailings until early 2021 as a result of the impact.

The vessel will boast the first-ever at sea onboard gin distillery, a luxurious spa, 8 specialty restaurants, 4 swimming pools and a wealth of entertainment venues. The 2-deck Skydome promises everything from a boutique cinema and a 'secret' nightclub to a pool with a retractable stage for immersive shows and aerial performances.