An Uplifting Refit for Iona

P&O Cruises is always looking for ways to make its fleet even better – and Iona, its first Excel-class ship, recently came back from her first-ever refit in Rotterdam (4–23 October) with a fresh new look and some exciting upgrades.

The biggest change? A brand-new SeaScreen in the SkyDome – just like the one on Arvia.

It’s designed to elevate everything from live music and game shows to performances and films, all while blending beautifully with the updated décor. 

“The new SeaScreen will bring a variety of exciting and diverse entertainment options to the SkyDome on Iona. From morning to night it will be bustling with films, trivia, game shows and much more. Additionally, the SeaScreen will serve as a vibrant and versatile backdrop for our spectacular shows.” 

Catherine Badman, Senior Entertainment Manager

Relaxation just got a serious upgrade at Oasis Spa. Introducing the Japanese head spa – a luxurious new treatment focused on hair and scalp health. Think deep-cleansing, exfoliation, massage, rainbow shower head therapy, hydrating masks and steam sessions. 

Plus, P&O Cruises have teamed up with Elemis to launch a new wellness and beauty experience, complete with expert-led events and interactive Skin-Lab sessions.

• Deck 8 now has more sun loungers and recliners.

• Restaurants including Coral and Pearl, The Quays, Horizon and Vistas have had carpets replaced and seating refreshed.

• Decks 12–17 have new carpets in guest corridors and lift lobbies.

• Casino fans will find a new electronic table game.

• Over 15,000 mattresses changed out across guest and crew cabins – a changeout of unprecedented scale, never achieved on an XL-class ship across the Corporation.

• Photo studio now includes a new viewing space and studio.

• Shops have new flooring and an expanded premium watch display – including branded spaces for Tudor, Breitling, Rado and Longines, and more room for Rolex Maritime pre-owned timepieces.

• The gem bar has transformed into the Wonders of Tanzania boutique, celebrating rare and majestic Tanzanite gemstones.

• Installed 10 docking cameras and several kilometres of cabling across the ship.

• Maintained all Atrium blinds. 

• Full hydroblast and fresh coating of paint applied to underwater and topside areas. 

• 5-year inspections and testing of all lifeboats completed, plus a fresh lick of paint. 

• 5-year inspections and testing completed of all firefighting equipment. 

• Replaced all wireless access points in crew and guest cabins. And upgraded public space access points and LES network. 

• Balcony pipework drainage completed. 

• Installed the Air Lubrication System (ALS) – Iona’s largest technical project to date, improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions.

Check out this video created by Iona’s crew