At an official handover ceremony with the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, P&O Cruises (part of Carnival Corporation) took ownership of Iona, the latest addition to its fleet and the largest cruise ship ever built for the UK market. At 185,000 tons, 345m in length with 17 guest decks and setting new ground for guest experience, Iona is the first British cruise ship to be powered by LNG.
“Iona’s delivery is a very positive signal for the future of cruising. She is now officially part of the P&O Cruises fleet and we are focused on readying her to welcome guests during her new maiden season to Northern Europe, Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands from our home port of Southampton,” said P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow. “Whilst our operations are currently paused until early 2021, we look forward to our guests experiencing this game-changing ship as we will continue to offer unparalleled holidays at sea whilst also upholding the latest approved travel protocols.”
The new LNG-powered ship, with 5,200-guest capacity, will be the largest ship built to serve the UK market. Iona will feature enhancements to already successful brand signature venues from the existing fleet, as well as features newly developed for Iona.
These include a breathtaking three deck atrium in the heart of the ship as well as SkyDome – an exclusively designed glass dome by award-winning British engineers Eckersley O’Callaghan. This will be a world first at sea and offer a unique space for both relaxing in all weathers and providing entertainment, featuring aerial performers and a wealth of live acts.
Source: Carnival Corporation
