The room was excellent. it took us over a week to properly book a table for when we wanted to eat at night.There were two people at the point of booking,one the man was very good and tried to help when he could.The other a female was one of the most horrid people I have ever met on a cruise liner.Basically the ship was too big. To say I wont be going back is an understatement.
We went on a canaries cruise which also included Cadiz, Lisbon and Madeira. Unfortunately inclement weather and rough seas prevented us from docking at Madeira.
We have sailed to the Canaries before, so we were used to the islands. We preferred Lanzarote as it seems more natural that the rest, even though they are all man made
The embarkation at Southampton was very well organised, as we all had to conduct a pre-embarkation COVID test. Although this made the process a little more protracted, it was very reassuring.
The ship itself, IONA, was excellent. I know it is new, but the staff look to be certain to keep it that way. Constant cleaning was another reassuring factor. The food service areas were well stocked and not too busy, as the capacity of the ship seemed to have been reduced. The entertainment was first rate, with the shows and individual artistes being well worth a visit.
I am a fan of the casino, and the staff were eager to ensure you had a safe and comfortable visit . Overall, it was an excellent holiday. We will definitely travel on Iona again
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Chosen because of itinerary and more days on land than at sea. Had been on this ship more than 10 years ago. Ship recently refurbished so looks very smart. Balcony cabin more spacious than other P&O ships. Food generally good in main dining rooms though getting a table for 2 very difficult unless you are prepared for a long wait. Entertainment good, itinerary excellent (Santander is recommended, not often on itineraries). Ship had to have a deep clean so boarding was late but didn't detect high levels of sickness, just keep away from the buffet and Jacuzzis!
On the whole, good value and the only gripe was missing out on Guernsey with a day at sea instead. As there was warning that this would probably happen there was disgruntlement among the passengers that there appeared to be no effort made to find a substitute port of call.
Only our 2nd cruise (1st was the Caribbean on Arvia) but even though we were on a smaller and older ship we still had an amazing holiday. The destinations and tours we did were fantastic. Our only negative was we should have booked for 2 weeks instead of one!
Lots to love some not so good
Arrived at port had to wait to book in cabin with balconie very good no problem with luggage arrived on time was quite rocking in bed sailing for 2 days got to madera very nice but not a lot to do alot of old poeople on board which was fine food was nice staff very nice dont like the strict dress code though but others didnt seem to mind lovely weather in the canaries very pleasant cruise going to another cruise with pand o in november
Just as good as ever, Tenerife is great at Xmas and my Teide is stunning as is Madeira



