Iona Review
Embrace everything that a Big Ship offers and you will have a very enjoyable time on board
Rating by category
Additional details
I booked this cruise 3 years ago in 2020; I was meant to sail last year, however I postponed due to the covid protocols. I chose Norway as relatively affordable and having wathed some box sets in lock down (having made the Transatlantic crossing, in 2019, on the QMary with Cunard - as a big treat).
When I first got on the Iona I was slightly overwhelmed with the size of it and wondered if it was going to be too much. Naturally I thought about the QM, however these trips are not comparable - you are comparing an apple with an avocado - both are nice and have things to recommend them.
Once I found my way around the Iona, I really enjoyed sailing on her - she is a holiday in her own right and some people just don't get off! There is a lot going on and I enjoyed the variety of food offered and the activities (especially a bit of crafting, the cinema, good shows, the Costa coffee - they knew my order and just brought it me every morning (sleeping badly, I was there everyday and first thing!).
Cabin Review
Initially I was in . I had actually let the cruise consultant choose this and I didn't pay enough attention. Should be a quiet cabin (as only 1 neighbour and aft - so less foot traffic). But - don't choose this one as you can hear the music from the venue on 8 - level 9 does not absorb the sound and it travels up. was much better,
The cabins are clean and modern - they are not particularly large though - for me (on my own) it was fine. But for two peope it would have been a bit cosy.
It was the basic cabin, however everything was there - good shower, comfy bed, tea and coffee etc. Daily tidying/ cleaning. I notice people grumbling about lack of drawers, however the shelves work for me as I can see eveything in it's place. I think that you can request the body lotion and hair conditioner (I didn't).
Port Reviews
Stavanger
Love Stavanger and would like to go again. Some good museums and also the old town is interesting - I also think that there are some good trips to be taken from this base. Very accessible as a destination from the ship