P&O Cruises Iona, the UK’s largest and greenest cruise ship, arrived in its home port of Southampton this morning ahead of tonight’s official naming ceremony.
Iona is powered by liquefied natural gas, which is ground-breaking for the UK cruise industry and one of the cleanest fuels in the world.
The ship will be christened in a grand ceremony tonight at 9pm on the dock, hosted by Jo Whiley and broadcast live to a “virtual” audience, the highlight of which will be a short performance by Iona’s Music Director Gary Barlow.
Dame Irene Hays, Chairman of Hays Travel, the UK’s largest independent travel agency, will name the ship, specially made with Alex James’ popular British cider Nebuchadnezzar (equivalent to 20 bottles of 750ml ) will hit the hull and bring good luck to the ship. future.
Iona will have 30 bars and restaurants, offering a number of new specialty dining options, including tapas from award-winning Spanish chef José Pizarro paired with Olly Smith’s selected wines, and a new chef’s table menu from Marco Pierre White. Entertainment venues include the first “SkyDome” – a remarkable glass structure that will be a relaxed poolside environment during the day and transform into a spectacular venue with DJs, stages and aerial acrobats at night.
The ship will also feature the first gin still on board, created in conjunction with Salcombe Gin to distill bespoke spirits on board. Initial production of the gin will take place in Iona’s bespoke still called ‘Columba’ and will be distilled, bottled and labeled on board.
P&O Cruises President Paul Ludlow said: “This is a landmark day for P&O Cruises and the entire travel industry.
“We are on the cusp of a bright new beginning and Iona’s arrival at Southampton this morning is clear evidence of this much-anticipated future.
“Our guests are eager to get back to the sea and Iona’s summer UK coastal cruises, including the maiden voyage to the eponymous Iona on 7 August, are in huge demand.”
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