P&O Cruises’ Iona has reached a significant milestone, marking five years in service since joining the company’s fleet.
The ship was handed over by German shipbuilder Meyer Werft in October 2020 and quickly made history as the largest vessel ever constructed for the British cruise line.
Part of Carnival Corporation’s Excel-class ships, Iona was also the first cruise ship powered by liquefied natural gas to be built specifically for the UK market.
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Designed to carry more than 5,000 passengers, the ship features a wide range of onboard facilities, including multiple fine-dining venues, extensive entertainment spaces, several swimming pools and numerous whirlpool spas.
Although global cruising was halted at the time of her delivery due to the pandemic, Iona eventually welcomed passengers when P&O Cruises resumed sailing in the UK.
Her inaugural voyage departed Southampton in August 2021 and featured a celebratory send-off.
Since then, the vessel has operated year-round from Southampton.
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