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Iona by p&o cruises: a complete guide & review, plus things to do onboard.

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It’s not often you get a chance to be on a Maiden Voyage . Especially not one as huge as the launch of the new P&O flagship Iona . It was made even more special because I’ve been involved with the launch of this ship for nearly 3 years. From my first trip to Norway , to promote the excursions Iona will be doing there, to watching Gary Barlow live at a London launch.

But this article isn’t about me, that was just me highlighting my connection with Iona. This article is about you, and everything you can do onboard Iona . In this article I will cover everything this ship has to offer. And I mean everything .

Our Maiden Voyage was a cruise around the UK, meaning it didn’t stop anywhere due to Covid restrictions. That had one major benefit, it gave me a whole week on board to see and do as much onboard as possible. I still didn’t cover everything. I think it’s been designed that way, so you come back for more. That’s a smart strategy.

I don’t plan to specifically focus on the Covid rules in this article, however to stay up to date with safety protocols, vaccination requirements and FAQs, please see the P&O Cruises Cruise with Confidence .

Facts about Iona

Before I get into a few facts and figures. The real show-stopping fact for Iona is it’s powered by Liquified Natural Gas . This makes Iona one of the most environmentally friendly cruise ships in the world. She has zero sulphur and nitrogen emissions and produces 20 per cent less carbon than ships running on marine diesel.

That’s impressive. It’s so important to see a huge player in the cruise industry setting the standard. So, onto the facts:

• Iona is the largest ever cruise ship to fly the UK flag
• She can hold 5,200 guests and 1800 crew
• There are more than 30 places to eat and drink onboard
• There are 4 swimming pools (2 infinity pools) and 18 hot tubs
• Iona has the world’s first gin distillery at sea (more on that later)

Dining on Iona

As you’ll see from my video above. P&O Cruises has really set the bar high with dining onboard Iona. This isn’t just some of the best food I’ve eaten at sea, it’s some of the best I’ve ever experienced. Quite frankly, I don’t know where to start when it comes to the cuisine.

Well firstly, there is freedom dining throughout the ship included in the price. There are four main dining areas and a few other casual places included in this. This food is of fantastic quality. Some restaurants have a traditional buffet selection; albeit no longer self-served due to CoronaVirus protocols. And having no self-service is no bad thing in my opinion.

Personally, I love a buffet when I want an informal setting and I’m short on time. However, my favourite of the ‘included’ or ‘free’ selection was The Quays . Three restaurants in a small piazza offering Asian cuisine at Fusion, fish and chips at The Hook or American dining at Boardwalk Diner.

Moving onto the speciality restaurants, which you must try. These incur an extra charge, but for good reason. Usually, the charge isn’t that much and believe me when I say it’s worth it. I suggest you budget for that pre-trip. Here’s a couple of my highlights (keep in mind I did not have time to try every restaurant).

• The Glass House : a light tapas style menu in the Grand Atrium with wines selected by Olly Smith (who happened to say hello when I was there for lunch!)
• The Olive Grove : Mediterranean style food with a small surcharge. Probably my top tip, it wasn’t busy and the value for money is amazing. I recommend the Tagine.
• The Keel and Cow : if you like your steaks and burgers then look no further. The Prime-minister burger is known as the “best burger at sea”, and I love the fact that the blue cheese comes from the Isle of Wight.
• Epicurean : fine dining with British / Norwegian inspired dishes at £28 a head. This is one of many destination-inspired restaurants onboard, a lovely touch.
• The Limelight Club : a three-course meal combined with entertainment. Brilliant. An elegant venue with a cabaret show, we saw the singing plus comedy drag-queen La Voix .
• Sindhu : Authentic Indian food with a British twist.

When it comes to the bars, I’ve included these under things to do below.

Things to do on Iona

I should probably just have a separate article focusing on this alone! And if you’ve not watched the video above, please check that out. My main line in the video is “ you won’t get bored onboard” . That couldn’t ring truer, especially when cruising returns to normal and you’ll be getting off most days.

You’ll most likely find you haven’t even scratched the surface when it comes to exploring Iona.

I’ll break it down into day and night, starting with daytime. Firstly, relaxing. Try 4 swimming pools (two of which are infinity pools) with sunlounges, indoor and out plus 18 hot tubs, enough choice? There’s usually live acoustics around and always a waiter on hand for drinks.

Daytime entertainment

For a tranquil setting, there’s the adults-only Retreat . It offers some of the best views onboard. For even more relaxation book yourself into the Oasis Spa , complete with jacuzzis, sauna, salt room, steam room and hydrotherapy pool. I had the hot stone massage which was incredible. Please book early as this was mostly fully-booked on my trip.

I was also impressed with the size of the gym onboard, which has daily fitness classes and yoga.

For Children

For the children you have “ The Reef ”, which is organised into age-specific clubs with outdoor play areas, and entertainment such as puppet shows and treasure hunts.

Evening entertainment

In the evening your first option is aerial displays and laser shows in the SkyDome . It blew me away how an indoor swimming pool by day was transformed into at acrobatics entertainment area by night.

Your second option on Iona is the two-story auditorium the Headliners Theatre . They host live music, stand-up comedy, and theatre performances such as the new “ Festival ” show which was a fantastic spectacle.

Bars and Drinking

Personally, when cruising I love to spend my evenings in a smaller bar with some live music.

There was no better live music venue than the 710 club (if you can get in). The cosy and very intimate venue has partnered with no other than Gary Barlow as the musical director. But get there early or book in advance, as (rather frustratingly) these were the hottest seats onboard.

There’s also the Crow’s Nest cocktail bar, which has lovely views but wasn’t my favourite atmosphere. Instead, I preferred the Emerald Bar in the Atrium, where I had an exquisite cocktail called ‘ The Smoke that Rocked’ ; a smokey cherry bourbon Old Fashioned. I also found the live music at the Club House , and the informal setting at Brodie’s more my style.

Brodie’s is also conveniently next door to the casino too. However, I was a little disappointed with the Casino, there’s a limited selection of games and just a small number of tables. When the ship is full, I doubt you’ll get much chance to play.

Finally, movie lovers will enjoy Ocean Studios , four cinema screens running throughout the day with the latest surround sound and a mix of classic flicks and recent blockbusters.

Rooms and Suites on Iona

I have always said that once you have a balcony on a cruise, you can never go back. Clearly the inside cabins are friendlier on the wallet. But once you step out of bed and onto your private balcony, with a coffee and the crisp sea air, you won’t go back.

I had a Balcony Suite , which is far more spacious than any previous cruise with P&O Cruises. With a small working and sitting area, a big screen TV and plenty of wardrobe space it’s hard to know what more you need. Oh wait, brand-new for Iona is P&O Cruises very first Conservatory Mini-Suite . These suites have a stunning conservatory style roof over a casual seating area, bringing in loads of natural light and perfect for entertaining or relaxing.

You can also choose from sea-view cabins, inside cabins and solo cabins. I found the inside cabins surprisingly bright and spacious considering there is no natural light, and they also have a small seating area.

The World’s first Gin Distillery at Sea

That’s right, Salcombe Distilling Co. have curated the sea inspired Marabelle Gin which will be distilled onboard, right there for the guests to see. I met Angus from Salcombe Gins to learn about Marabelle. He took inspiration from the Isle of Iona itself, foraging botanicals around the island.

The sea inspiration doesn’t stop there. The label has similarities to the sunset logo from P&O Cruises and star constellations on the inside. But importantly, it’s a stunning gin. I know as I’ve already had a bottle at home, and a few more G&Ts on board. It’s a fresh gin with a distinctive flavour, which coupled with citrus and apple gives you the perfect G&T after a long day exploring the Norwegian Fjords or Canary Islands.

The Gin Distillery is found at Anderson’s Bar and Library , a classy venue to sip a G&T and watch the distilling process in action. All Marabelle bottles with a gold top have been distilled at sea.

Other Unique Features on Iona

All around the ship you can see that every effort has been made to design a ship that feels bright and spacious. It’s a sense of space that you don’t expect on a ship, where space is a premium.

This starts in the stunning 3-story Grand Atrium , the first place you see when you embark. It has floor to ceiling windows (yes spanning all 3 floors), making it the perfect spot for watching the world pass by. It also houses several bars and restaurants, not least the Glasshouse mentioned above.

Next, we have the SkyDome . A huge dome roof gives you the comfort of an indoor pool and somewhere to relax whatever the weather. But the impressive part is how it’s transformed into an entertainment zone in the evenings. With a retractable stage over the pool, we saw aerialists and laser shows late into the night. I can see this having the party atmosphere when the ship is full, especially with DJ sets produced by Blur’s Alex James .

Iona Destinations

Iona will sail to the Norwegian Fjords in the summer, starting in 2022. To me you can’t find a more perfect partnership. As I’ve mentioned above, she is designed to let the outside in, and what more perfect place to marvel from the comfort of the Atrium than the majestic Norwegian Fjords? I even wrote about all the fantastic Norwegian Fjords Excursions you can do, in advance of Iona’s launch.

During the winter Iona will sail to the Canary Islands , another fantastic destination to compliment the ship. We spent our week on the coast of Scotland in summer, a temperate climate and sunny most days. But being around 20-22 degrees meant it could get a little chilly. Well Iona has that covered. Hot tubs dotted all round and the cover pool of the SkyDome mean you can still enjoy some bathing, whether inside or out.

Final thoughts on Iona

On a personal note, I have been excited for the Maiden Voyage of Iona by P&O Cruises for some time. It was a privilege to be onboard and presenting a tour of the ship. Iona has been designed to be different, and to appeal to a younger generation of cruisers. The original launch was due to showcase that with a weeklong festival, one of many plans scuppered by Covid.

Nonetheless Iona will get there, back where she belongs exploring the world. She’s a bold eco-friendly cruise ship with a vibrant atmosphere, targeted at a younger audience. And when she is sailing through the awe-inspiring Norwegian Fjords, I can’t think of a better place to be to witness it.

This article was supported by P&O Cruises but as always, the opinions and photos in the article are all my own, and I think it’s clear to see I loved every minute of my time onboard!

Founder & Editor of Intrepid Escape, a huge lover of adventure, adrenaline, sport & fitness. After travelling extensively for the last 12 years, Scott started to document his travels before fulfilling an important lifelong goal by starting Intrepid Escape. He has since become a full-time Travel Writer, Videographer, Presenter and Producer.

0 thoughts on “ Iona by P&O Cruises: A complete Guide & Review, plus Things to do Onboard ”

I really want to know when Gary Barlow is on the Iona surprise present for my daughter treating her to a cruise.

Just reading your comments it says book early for Gary Barlow how can we do that we don’t know when he is on

I went on Iona 7 May to 14 May Norway and Fjords had different cruises booked for 3 years this was first one we went on. Ship was great food good. We went to see Fjords but Iona couldn’t sail through them as high winds so had another day at sea. I have been ill for eleven days since coming off ship. Also paid extra to pick cabin on 11th deck but moved to one 14th deck. Complained but fell on deaf ears. Dissapointing.

I have booked Iona for October, have been trying to contact ROL cruises for over a month, no reply

Hi, sailing on Iona December, to celebrate my partners 70th would like to surprise him with a birthday cake, would they be able to organise one for me at a cost, or should I take one with me. Many thanks

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Iona Deck Plans & Reviews

Activities & entertainment

• Crows Nest _ Observation Lounge
• Cooking Demonstrations
• Dance Classes
• Splash Zone
• Whirlpools (18)
• Hydrotherapy Pool *
• Oasis Spa *
• Thermal Suite *
• Late_Night Activities
• Fitness Classes
• Jogging Track
• Organized Activities and Games
• Sports Court
• The Retreat *
• Art Gallery *
• The Avenue Shopping *
• The Photo Hub *
• Ivory Suite
• The Reef _ Kids Club
• Scene _ Teens Club
• Shore Experiences *
• Loyalty and Cruise Sales *
• Self_Service Laundry *
• Medical Center
• Headliners Theatre
• Nightly Live Music
• Ocean Studios
• The Club House
• The Limelight Club
• The 710 Club
• Enrichment Lectures
• Aqua Restaurant - Main
• Coral Restaurant - Main
• Opal Restaurant - Main
• Pearl Restaurant - Main
• Vistas Cafe Bar - Coffee Bar *
• Emerald Bar - Atrium Bar *
• Brodies - Pub *
• Sindhu - British-Indian *
• Sindhu Bar - British-Indian Bar *
• Horizon Restaurant - Buffet
• The Beach House - Steakhouse *
• Andersons Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Epicurean - Gourmet *
• The Olive Grove - Mediterranean *
• Crystal Bar - Pool Bar *
• Beachcomber Bar - Pool Bar *
• Infinity Bar - Pool Bar *
• Laguna Bar and Sundaes - Pool Bar *
• Sky Bar - Pool Bar *
• Sunset Bar - Pool Bar *
• The Keel and Cow - Gastropub *
• Panorama Bar - Pool Bar *
• The Glass House - Wine Bar *
• The Quays - Worldwide Snacks *
• Ripples - Ice Cream *
• Grab and Go - Snacks
• Taste 360 - Street Food
• Room Service *

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Upcoming itineraries

Ship Overview

P&O Cruises' biggest and most innovative ship ever built for the UK market is the first Excellence-Helios Class in the fleet.  Powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is considered one of the cleanest-burning fuels reducing sulfur emissions and nitrogen oxide, Iona is one of the greenest ships in the world. With a capacity for 5,200 passengers Iona boats a number of new-to-the-line facilities including a multi-functional glass-roofed "Skydome", the first gin distillery at sea, and 30 different dining venues to choose from. Designed to let the outdoors in and create an atmosphere of light, calm, and relaxation in the public areas Iona’s facilities are nothing short of impressive. The ship’s sensational Grand Atrium which offers panoramic ocean views, contemporary architecture and a seductive space will present aerialists and pop-up performances with spectacular shows. This family-friendly vessel has many interesting facilities to keep kids and adults entertained. The ship features Kids Club, Ocean Studios, and a four-screen cinema with screenings throughout the day with complimentary ice cream, popcorn, and snacks. With 12 bars, 13 entertainment venues, four swimming pools (three outside and one Indore), and many daily activities the ships guarantees a lot of fun.

Ship Specifications

City Southampton

Iona itineraries, 7 night norwegian fjords, 14 night canary islands, 14 night spain and portugal, 7 night northern europe, 7 night western europe, p&o cruises fleet.

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02380 658 386

Sail from UK Sail from UK

launched 2020

tonnage 183,900

length 337 m

capacity 5,200

Are you ready to see the world in widescreen? Our newest and most innovative ship, Iona was designed to invite the outdoors in. Gazing out from the stunning SkyDome, three-tier glass Grand Atrium or the brand-new Conservatory Mini-suite cabins, you’re never far from a spectacular view of the ever-changing horizon on Iona’s cruise holidays.

• accommodation
• entertainment
• health & fitness

Aft and Forward Suites are always special, giving guests the ultimate experience of relaxation in their own boutique-hotel haven. A luxurious space is created as the doors of interconnecting rooms open fully to create a larger, brighter studio ambience.

The furniture and material selection is focused on guest relaxation and comfort: light tones create the additional spacious experience. Furniture, including sofas, ottomans and lounge chairs, is upholstered in sands, beiges and off-whites. In the spacious bathroom, the double sink units set in stunning black marble are a striking focal point, surrounded by elegant white marble walls and floor tiling.

As with all suites, guests benefit from the clever configuration of different interior zones with separate lounge and bedroom areas, segregated dressing areas and spacious en suite bathrooms. All suites have direct access to large balconies and benefit from a range of exclusive Suite services, such as a personal Butler and a range of in-suite dining options.

Conservatory Mini-Suite

The Conservatory Mini-suite cabin is an exciting new addition to the choice of accommodation and a signature option on Iona.

The concept brings the outdoors in with a personal and versatile conservatory-style room that forms an extension to the cabin. It offers great flexibility and creates a distinctive relaxation and socialising zone. This space, which includes stylish L-shaped seating, can be closed off or left open according to the time of day or mood.

By day or in the evenings, the room opens out fully onto the balcony. With a direct connection to the sea, the space is cool and shaded – and perfect for chilling out in. In the evenings, it transforms into a spacious environment for private celebrations and socialising over pre-dinner drinks with friends and family. Leading directly onto the balcony, all configurations of this flexible space offer glorious seascape views.

Balcony Cabins

The sea is the star on Iona and the Balcony accommodation gives guests the chance to enjoy it to the full, whether travelling solo or in a larger group.

There are four options to choose from – Deluxe (the most spacious), Balcony, Single and Standard Balcony – all of which offer an extended private space in which to relax and unwind. From enjoying a cup of tea in the morning to watching the sun set with a drink, guests can relax in their own private area. Balcony cabins also allow greater flexibility for outdoor dining using the Room Service menu.

For larger groups and families, the internal spaces have been skilfully designed to include attractive built-in drop-down bunk beds and flexible sleeping arrangements that maximise space and seating by day and provide comfortable bedding by night.

Sea View Cabins

Here, too, the design and choices of colours and materials optimises the seaside feel. Porthole mirrors, blue feature walls and soft furnishings and accessories in gold and white textiles bring a sense of light and relaxation to the interior space.

The clever design of these cabin types maximises storage options and all cabins boast the personal touches that create a stylish and homely atmosphere – including tea and coffee-making facilities (with tasty biscuits provided daily), a well-stocked fridge, in-cabin TV with a host of channels to choose from, and a bathroom boasting soft cotton towels and quality toiletries courtesy of The White Company.

Inside Cabins

Deck 19 – Sky Deck

Deck 18 – Panorama Deck

Deck 16 – Lido Deck

Deck 8 – Promenade Deck

Deck 7 – Parade Deck

Deck 6 – Gala Deck

The Keel and Cow

From breakfast till late, this is the place to relax with friends, beautifully crafted gastropub food and a fine collection of draught and bottled beers and craft ales. Will it be our signature burger, classic fish and chips, pie and mash or a prime steak from the dry-aging cabinet? Hard choices. Great food.

Prepare your taste buds for a flavour-filled adventure. In stylish and sumptuous surroundings, Sindhu’s expert chefs will take you on a delicately spiced odyssey that celebrates the best of contemporary Indian cuisines. You can also make a date on sea days to enjoy a delicious tiffin-style lunch.

The Glass House

Sit back with a glass of specially selected wine as daring aerial artists perform before your eyes. This welcoming and sophisticated wine bar boasts a prime spot in the Grand Atrium, a cracking selection of world wines hand-picked by wine expert Olly Smith and delicious food.

Horizon Restaurant

Whatever you fancy, whatever the time of day, head for the Horizon Restaurant. The all-day dining venue offers an incredible variety of food from home and around the world to suit every appetite and dietary need. The self-service restaurant is spacious, elegant and relaxed, with ocean vistas on the side.

The Olive Grove

Everyone loves the sunshine, and here we serve it up, Mediterranean style, all day long. Pull up a chair and take your pick from the region’s iconic favourites, from Spanish paella to Moroccan lamb tagine and grazing boards of tasty regional specialities –all perfect for enjoying with friends and family.

Head to The Quays for informal dining options to suit every mood. This multi-venue dining piazza offers an amazing array of eateries and restaurants and is a lively hub for socialising over food and watching the world go by. There’s a fun street-food atmosphere with plenty of buzz, theatre and colour adding to the beachfront promenade vibe. With access onto the Promenade Deck, outdoor dining is available too. It’s all about flexible, fun, family-friendly food – the perfect place for a quick snack, light lunch or informal dinner.

Find scoopfuls of holiday happiness at this family-friendly gelateria. Snowflake Luxury Gelato blends the best of British and Italian cultures in a range of artisan flavours. A traditional cone with your choice of toppings? A gelato afternoon tea, cookie or sundae? With so many treats, you’re sure to be back for more.

The Beach House

For relaxed dining, this family favourite always gets the thumbs up. Easy does it for Caribbean and Southern American classics with a playful twist. From hanging kebabs and sizzling cook-your-own steaks to delectable chocolate fondues, you’ll want to dive right in.

Vistas Café Bar

Feast your eyes on sea views as you savour exquisite sweet treats, invigorating Costa coffees and a selection of teapigs™teas. In this buzzing location at the heart of the ship you’ll also be treated to pop-up performances and daring displays from aerial artists.

The Limelight Club

This supper-club venue is a fixed favourite. After the daytime dancing classes, The Limelight Club is the place to be for adult-only evening dining and entertainment. The club exclusively hosts established and emerging vocalists and is the dedicated venue for resident performers and the house band. As the entertainment gets underway, guests enjoy a unique dining experience: a themed multi-course menu is served at intervals throughout the show.

The Epicurean

Dining experiences don’t come any finer than Epicurean. Marvel as each exquisite dish, inspired by classic British ingredients and given a modern twist by expert chefs, is presented at your table. The experience is complete with fine wines, flawless service, elegant surroundings and stunning ocean views.

The Chef’s Table

Don your finery for an exclusive evening of fine dining. On Celebration Nights, The Chef’s Table celebrates British and regional cuisines with a unique menu created by Marco Pierre White and wine selected by Olly Smith.

One of Iona’s signature venues, Taste 360 is a street food style dining experience on deck, where you can take in the panoramic views while trying different flavours from around the globe with our rotating menus. José will create exciting Spanish flavours for Iona’s holidays to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands.

The Grand Atrium

Meet, dine, relax and be entertained. The Grand Atrium is an incredible space hosting talks and cooking demos by day and enthralling live entertainment by night, from impromptu musical performances to breathtaking aerial shows. Take your seat at one of cafés, bars and restaurants to take in the action, and the ocean views.

Emerald Bar

Glamour, good times and glorious exploratory cocktails combine in this buzzing Grand Atrium jewel. Will it be an expertly crafted daiquiri, or a playful creation with a surprising twist? And get set for even more wow-factor moments as daring aerial artists work their magic above.

Salcombe Gin Distillery

Let the adventure be-gin

We’ve collaborated with award-winning Salcombe Distilling Co. to create a smooth, one-of-a-kind gin available on board our ships. And with a name that means ‘star of the sea’, is there a more fitting choice for the gin that was first produced in the world’s first-ever distillery at sea, on board Iona?

Meet Marabelle Gin, the star of the sea

Raise a glass to Marabelle Gin, a sea-inspired blend created exclusively for P&O Cruises by Salcombe Distilling Co. This exciting partnership marries British maritime heritage and a love of ocean adventures in a beautifully crafted gin. From the name and the design of the bottle to the ingredients, every detail has been carefully thought through.

The first distillery at sea

Marabelle Gin is distilled by a gin specialist in Iona’s very own gin still, Columba – the world’s first distillery at sea. As well as being served in beautifully crafted cocktails, Marabelle Gin will also be bottled and labelled to be sold on board. If you are holidaying on Iona and spot a gold seal on your bottle, you’ll know this was handcrafted in Columba.

A beautifully balanced recipe

And don’t forget: bottles of Marabelle Gin can be purchased on board all of our ships – a perfect gift to take home. Bottles of Marabelle with our blue seals were distilled by Salcombe Distilling Co. at its beautiful waterside still in Devon, ready to share and serve. These are also available to purchase direct from their website. Cheers!

Headliners Theatre

Headliners Theatre is perfect for a fun-filled night out on board. Classic yet contemporary, it offers a sleek and sophisticated theatre experience. Plush, comfortable seating and the latest LED technology deliver the ‘wow’ factor, while a two-deck-high auditorium on decks 6 and 7 ensures everyone has the best view in the house.

Ocean Studios

The whole family will love an outing to Ocean Studios. Our four-screen cinema complex offers a warm welcome, comfortable seating and a premium cinema experience. With screenings throughout the day, there’s always an option to see an age-appropriate blockbuster or family classic – complete with popcorn, ice cream and snacks, of course.

A place to immerse yourself in the seductive sounds of an array of musical genres that have inspired musical director Gary Barlow over the years, The 710 Club on Iona is a sophisticated bar crafted to Gary’s creative vision.

Atmospheric and low-lit, The 710 Club will serve up live music from resident band The 710s with an unmistakably vintage vibe, stylish cocktails and the most important ingredient of all; a little escapism, to ensure the good times continue long into the night.

Get cosy beneath the intimate low lighting of The Limelight Club and prepare yourself for a show-stopper of an evening at this ticketed event exclusively for adults. Feast your senses on entertainment provided by some of Britain’s best-loved performers and relish in a three-course culinary experience that’ll have your taste-buds tingling.

Viva theme night – The Limelight Club

Tonight is Viva! A dynamic music event that is guaranteed to get you on your feet, and light a fire in your soul. Latin music has got the whole world dancing with its passion, love for life and rhythm.

The Club House

Everyone will love the daytime entertainment on offer at this bright and spacious venue, from guest speakers to live music, family entertainment and game shows. When the lights go down at night, get ready to party with DJ nights, comedians and great music from our resident band Pulse.

Not only home to daytime relaxing by the pool, bespoke and exclusive aerial shows, guest DJ sets and more, SkyDome also hosts IGNITE – our upbeat party-starter with a DJ set produced by Alex James, laser show and live music.

SkyDome offers a relaxed, poolside environment by day, with tantalising dining and drinking options. In the evening, the space seamlessly transitions into a must-visit entertainment venue, showcasing spectacular aerialist displays and hosting live performances and DJ party nights under the stars.

Kick off your holiday with IGNITE! Watch as SkyDome lights up under the night sky with laser shows, a killer DJ set producedby Alex James, and live music for you to dance the night away. This upbeat venue is the perfect place to get into the holiday mood.

I Believe in a Thing Called Rock

Think everything from Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Guns N’ Roses to The Killers and you might just get a flavour of our epic rock night. SkyDome swaps DJ sets for killer electric guitar, a thumping drum beat and just a hint of a rebellious streak… With our house band Pulse and Headliners Theatre Company, the energy will be electric. Embrace your inner rock child, dust off your best air guitar and strap in for a night of absolute classics.

Aerial Shows

We’re collaborating with international entertainment company Creativiva – specialists in aerial stunts, acrobatic acts, unique sets, elaborate costumes, avant-garde storytelling and more. We’ll have bespoke live shows in SkyDome and the Grand Atrium.

Eyes will widen. Gasps will sound. Attention will be rapt. This is the power of Creativiva.

Brand new for P&O Cruises, we’re working with international entertainment company, Creativiva to offer something completely different for Iona. We’ve bespoke Creativiva-original shows coming to SkyDome and the Grand Atrium. You’ll find yourself transported to another world; filled with acrobatics, aerial acts, physical theatre, dance, music… not to mention flamboyant costumes, impressive sets and much, much more.

Lose yourself in a different world

Holiday on Iona and beyond the bands, the theatre shows and the cinema, you’ll find a brand-new immersive experience. Will you wander into the aviary? The Arena of Time? Or perhaps stumble upon two officers lost in a daydream… Lose yourself in a different world; one where acrobats descend from the rooftops, fly through the air, whirl in blurring rings, tie themselves in knots, balance beyond the realms of possibility and leave you spellbound in their midst.

Anderson’s Bar

Boasting our first stunning boutique gin still and a menu of stylish tipples, this intimate bar is the perfect spot for cosy drinks by day and night. Relax as our unique gin, Marabelle Gin, is distilled before your eyes. Then, it’s time to try – or even make it – for yourself.

The Crow’s Nest

Savour glorious ocean views and signature timeless classic cocktails with a twist. By day, the mood is restful for reading and reveries. By night, things take a sophisticated turn –the live pianist, moody vocals and stylish late-lounge vibe making it a popular haunt for night owls.

Brodie’s

Get set for good times in this lively, sociable pub. Hosting an incredible range of British and international bottled beers, ciders and real ales, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to crafted brews. There’s also a great selection on tap, plus wines and traditional snacks if you need a nibble or two.

And relax… This stylish bar at the aft end of the Promenade Deck is the perfect spot to chill out in the sunshine or shade by day, with cool drinks served at your table. Later, watch the sun set with a cocktail or make a night of it under the stars with all the fun of The Club House next door.

If you’ve energy left from exploring ashore, why not try a new sport –archery, maybe? Or a swing in the golf nets? What about some friendly family competition playing football, basketball, tennis or cricket? The Sports Arena is perfect for burning off the holiday ice creams!

The Spa on Iona

Iona’s spa is a haven of transformative wellness with endless opportunities to enjoy the finely curated collection of authentic destination-inspired moments filled with exceptional service and unique experiences. Set out in a beautifully designed space that plays out harmoniously across decks 5 and 6, the aesthetic is understated and elegant. Beyond, ocean views soothe and inspire in equal measure. In short, it’s the perfect atmosphere for unadulterated mindful relaxation.

Thermal Suite

Explore heated loungers, a therapeutic sauna, sensory steam rooms and experiential showers. Other features include a hydrotherapy pool with massaging jets and air recliners.

Beauty & Wellness Treatments

A holiday gives you time and space to take care of yourself, and there’s no better way to do so than with beauty and wellness therapies that put the focus on relaxation and restoration. Expert therapists and aestheticians are on hand to get you glowing. You’ll find a wide range of premium treatments that are favourites across the wider fleet, from aroma stone therapy and Swedish massages to facials and Fire & Ice pedicures and manicures.

Salon Services

Whether you’re looking for a spruce-up or a completely new look, use a sea day to treat yourself. Iona’s team of stylists, aestheticians and make-up specialists are ready to help you shine.

The Retreat

The Retreat on Iona boasts a commanding spot on deck 18 above The Crow’s Nest. This signature feature is a quiet haven in which you can reconnect with nature, yourself or your loved ones – the epitome of calm where you can relax and enjoy the sights floating past. The paid-for outside space, which is exclusively for adults, boasts two infinity whirlpools with magnificent uninterrupted views, plus stylish day beds, hammocks, a bar, juice station and comfortable seating areas.

Gym & Fitness Studio

Whether you want to maintain your fitness regime or start a new one, Iona’s on-board gym and fitness studio has what you need for a workout that works. Expert fitness professionals are on hand to guide you, whether it’s a one-to-one personal training session or a group class. If you want to do your own thing, they’ll show you how to use the latest equipment and gym technologies, such as Technogym innovation, free weights and exercise bikes, to help you perform at your best.

Shore Excursions

Are you a sightseer, a mountain hiker, an art lover or a foodie? Perhaps you’re a sun bather, a paddle boarder, a wine taster or a photographer? Or maybe you like to mix things up – day to day, or even moment to moment?

No information available

Other Details

Adults Only: Kids allowed

Childrens Facilities: Available

Nursery: Nursery

Smoking: Some

Gratuities: Gratuities are included in the price so you can relax knowing that it’s all taken care of.

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5200 Passengers

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Data according to itinerary:

Current position of Iona : Haugesund/Norway

• Time since arrival 13 hrs 40 min from Ålesund/Norway (at 09:00 h local time)
• Time until departure 5 hrs 40 min to Southampton/England (at 17:00 h local time)
• Traveled distance since Southampton: 1,252.85 nm (2,320.28 km)

Current voyage:

Sunrise/sunset in haugesund on 18/04/2024.

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The top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world

M odern cruise ships continue to grow in size, with the biggest cruise ship, the Icon of the Seas , launching at the start of this year, and her sister ship the Star of the Seas expected to surpass her in size.

Both of these ships are operated by Royal Caribbean International, which operates five of the ten largest cruise ships in the world. Carnival Corporation, arguably the biggest cruise company in the world, features three times on the list through its subsidiaries P&O Cruises and Costa Cruises.

All of the heaviest cruise ships in the world were built within the last 20 years, although the majority – six of the ten – were built within the last five years.

So, here are the top ten biggest cruise ships in the world, by gross tonnage. 

10. P&O Cruises MS Arvia : 185,581 gross tonnes

The MS Arvia is P&O Cruises’ fourth ship to be built by German shipyard Meyer Werft. Weighing in at 185,581 gross tonnes, the 345m (1,130-foot) Arvia is slightly larger than her sister ship, the MS Iona . The 20-deck ship is the largest ship commissioned for the British cruise market and has a maximum passenger capacity of 6,264 passengers, with 1,800 crew onboard. 

The ship is the second liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered Excellence-class vessel for P&O, following the Iona . Arvia is powered by a 61,760kW LNG drive system, with a propulsion power of 37 megawatts. The LNG-powered propulsion system allows the vessel to sail at a maximum speed of 21.5 knots.

After being floated out in August 2022, the Arvia mainly operates itineraries around the Caribbean or the Mediterranean.

9. Costa Cruises – Costa Smeralda : 185,010 gross tonnes

The Costa Smeralda is the first LNG-powered vessel in the Costa Cruises fleet. With a gross tonnage of 185,010gt, the 20-deck Excellence-class ship measures 337m (1,106 feet) in length. The second LNG-powered cruise ship to enter operation in the world, she has a maximum capacity of 6,554 passengers with 1,646 crew and a service speed of 21.5 knots.

Construction of the Costa Smeralda began at the Meyer shipyard in Turku, Finland, in September 2017. Meyer Turku collaborated with the Meyer Werft Papenburg shipyard to develop and integrate the LNG propulsion plant for the ship. She is fitted with four 16-cylinder, Caterpillar MaK 16VM46DF engines, with 15.4 megawatts (20,710 horsepower) output per engine, resulting in a maximum power of  37 megawatts (50,000 horsepower).

The ship, which was named after the Emerald Coast of Sardinia, entered service in December 2019 , departing Savona on its maiden voyage in the Mediterranean, where it has sailed since.

8. Costa Cruises – Costa Toscana : 186,364 gross tonnes

The Costa Toscana is the sister ship of the Costa Smeralda and is also powered by LNG . measuring 337m (1,106 feet) long and weighing in at 186,364 gross tonnes, the Toscana has a maximum capacity of 6,338 passengers and 1,678 staff across her 20 decks.

Like her sister ship, the Toscana was also built at the Meyer shipyard in Finland, with construction completed in 2021. She is also powered by four MaK-Caterpillar engines, with a total power of 57.2 megawatts (76,706 horsepower), and two ABB Azipod motors , resulting in a service speed of 17 knots.

Named in homage to the Tuscany region of Italy, Costa Toscana mainly sails around the Mediterranean Sea but Costa Cruises has also used the ship to sail itineraries further afield, such as around Brazil and the UAE.

7. MSC Cruises – MSC World Europa : 215,863 gross tonnes

The only entry in the top ten from MSC Cruises, MSC World Europa measures 333m (1,094 feet) in length. With 215,863 gross tonnage, she can house more people than any other ship in the MSC fleet: up to 6,762 passengers across 2,633 cabins spread over 22 decks, in addition to 2,138 crew.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, the World Europa ’s LNG-power propulsion system was subcontracted to Finland-based Wärtsilä. Five LNG-powered, 14-cylinder Wartsila 46DF dual-fuel engines power the vessel, with a propulsion power of 44 megawatts ( 59,005 horsepower). She also features nitrogen oxide reduction (NOR) units, two Wartsila LNGPac fuel storage and supply systems, seven thrusters, and two fixed-pitch propellers. 

The MSC World Europa was floated out at the end of 2021 and was initially used as an accommodation vessel for fans attending the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with the ship berthed at Doha Port in Qatar during the tournament. Following the competition, the ship subsequently travelled several routes around the UAE, before sailing to the Mediterranean, where it has sailed itineraries since.

6. Royal Caribbean International – Allure of the Seas : 225,282 gross tonnes

The first of many entries on this list operated by Royal Caribbean, Allure of the Seas weighs in at 225,282 gross tonnes. Measuring 362m (1,187 feet), she is only 50mm (2 inches) longer than her sister ship the Oasis of the Seas . The Allure has a maximum capacity of 6,780 passengers and 2,200 crew across 18 decks.

Built at the Turku Shipyard in Finland, the Allure took two years to build , floating out in 2010. She features six Wärtsilä 46 diesel engines with a total power output of 97 megawatts (130,053 horsepower). It is propelled by three electric Azipod azimuth thrusters. The ship can travel at a cruising speed of 22 knots.

With a homeport of Galveston, Texas in the US, the Allure mainly serves itineraries around the Bahamas but she is scheduled to sail routes around the Mediterranean in 2025.

5. Royal Caribbean International – Oasis of the Seas : 226,838 gross tonnes

The oldest ship on this list, the Oasis of the Seas has been in service for over a decade. She was the biggest cruise ship at the time when floated out in 2009, with a gross tonnage of 226,838gt and a length of 360m (1,181 feet). The Oasis has a maximum capacity of 6,699 passengers and 2,181 staff across 18 decks.

The Oasis took two years to build at the Meyer shipyard in Turku, Finland, with the keel laid on 12 November 2007 and the ship arriving at her homeport of Port Everglades in Florida, US, on 13 November 2009.

The Oasis is powered by eight Wärtsilä V12 diesel engines, which generate 5.6 megawatts (7,500 horsepower) each, alongside four bow thrusters. The main propulsion system consists of three 20-megawatt (26,820 horsepower) electric Azipod motors, resulting in a combined propulsion power of 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) and a standard cruising speed of 23 knots.

The Oasis mainly operates routes around the Caribbean, but occasionally repositions to offer itineraries in the Mediterranean.

4. Royal Caribbean International – Harmony of the Seas : 226,963 gross tonnes

The third Oasis-class ship built by Royal Caribbean, Harmony of the Seas weighed in bigger than her existing sister ships at launch in 2016, with 226,963 gross tonnage, but she has since been surpassed by newer vessels. With a total length of 362m (1,188 feet), Harmony has a maximum capacity of 6,780 passengers and 2,300 staff across 18 decks.

Royal Caribbean placed an order with STX France for the construction of Harmony of the Seas in December 2012. The first steel for the ship was cut at STX France’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard in September 2013, while the keel-laying ceremony was held in May 2014.

The Harmony is powered by three 18.9-megawatt Wärtsilä 16V46 16-cylinder main generator diesel engines and three Wärtsilä 12V46 12-cylinder engines producing 13.9 megawatts each. The propulsion power is provided by three electric Azipod azimuth thrusters and manoeuvring is assisted by four 5.5-megawatt Wärtsilä CT 3500 tunnel thrusters. The propulsion system results in 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) and enables the ship to sail at a standard speed of 23 knots.

Harmony of the Seas embarked on her inaugural seven-night Western Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona, Spain, in June 2016, and currently operates itineraries around the Western Caribbean from her homeport of Galveston, Texas in the US.

3. Royal Caribbean International – Symphony of the Seas : 228,081 gross tonnes

At launch in 2018, the Symphony of the Seas surpassed the Harmony as the biggest cruise ship, weighing in at 228,081 gross tonnes. Measuring 361m (1,185 feet), the Symphony has a maximum capacity of 6,680 passengers and 2,200 staff across 18 decks and was the testing ground for Royal Caribbean's new muster drill . With a total length of 361m (1,185 feet), She is roughly 30 metres (98 feet) longer than the largest military ships , the US Nimitz-class aircraft carriers and the USS Gerald R. Ford .

The keel-laying ceremony for the Symphony of the Seas was held in October 2015 at STX’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard in France, and the ship sailed out in June 2017. She is powered by six diesel sets, each composed of three Wärtsilä 16V46D engines and three Wärtsilä 12V46D engines, as well as three 20-megawatt electric Azipod main engines – resulting in 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower) of propulsion power and a standard cruising speed of 22 knots.

The Symphony commenced her seven-day maiden voyage from Barcelona in April 2018, and since then has mainly operated itineraries around the Caribbean from her homeports of Miami, New York, and Fort Lauderdale.

2. Royal Caribbean International – Wonder of the Seas : 235,600 gross tonnes

Royal Caribbean's flagship, Wonder of the Seas is the fifth Oasis-class cruise ship built for the cruise company. Weighing in at 235,600 gross tonnes, the Wonder was the largest ship in the world when she was completed in January 2022. Measuring 362m (1,187 feet) in length, the 18-deck Wonder has a maximum capacity of 7,084 guests across its 2,867 staterooms, as well as housing 2,369 crew.

Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, Wonder is powered by two Wärtsilä 16V46D engines and four Wärtsilä 12V46D engines; and uses three 20-megawatt electric Azipod engines for propulsion, combining for a propulsion power of 82 megawatts (109,964 horsepower and a standard cruising speed of 22 knots.

The Wonder sailed her maiden voyage in March 2022 from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and has since served itineraries around the Caribbean from her homeports of Miami and Cape Canaveral.

1. Royal Caribbean International – Icon of the Seas : 248,663 gross tonnes

Weighing 248,663 gross tonnes and measuring 365 metres (1,1967 feet), the Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world. Christened on 23 January 2024, the Icon has a maximum capacity of 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew across 20 decks. She is the lead ship of the new Icon-class, with a sister ship the Star of the Seas due to be delivered in 2025 and another ship planned for delivery in 2026.

Built by Meyer Turku in Finland, the Icon is the first ship in the Royal Caribbean fleet that can be powered by LNG. It uses three Wärtsilä 14V46DF and three Wärtsilä 12V46DF for its main generator engines, which provide 67.5 megawatts of energy to run the ship. She is propelled by three 20-megawatt Azipod thrusters as well as five 4.8-megawatt Wärtsilä WTT-45 CP bow thrusters, with a cruising speed of 22 knots.

After sailing her maiden voyage on 27 January 2024, the Icon now sails year-round itineraries of seven-night trips around the Eastern and Western Caribbean from her homeport of Miami, Florida.

"The top 10 biggest cruise ships in the world" was originally created and published by Ship Technology , a GlobalData owned brand.

The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site.

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P&o cruises unveils 2026 programme with solar eclipse sailings.

P&O Cruises will host two webinars on Tuesday (16 April) to bring agents up to speed on its newly launched 2026 programme, which features new sailings to Rome and chances to catch a solar eclipse at sea.

The first webinar at 10am will centre around the finer details of the new programme and the second at 11.30am will be about how agents can pre-register their clients. 

Both webinars will be hosted by P&O Cruises’ training and engagement manager Stephanie Adams. Further details about the webinars can be found on the line’s trade loyalty platform, Shine Rewards Club. 

Cruises booked before 4 June and departing between 20 March and 31 October 2026 will include a 10% early-bird discount and a low 10% deposit offer on selected Select Price or Early Saver holidays. 

The line usually asks for 15% deposits before confirming a booking. 

In the programme, Arvia will operate five sailings featuring calls to Civitavecchia (Rome) for the first time. Prices start from £1,149 per person. 

Passengers sailing on Ventura’s 14-night Atlantic Coast cruise will call into the Spanish city of El Ferrol to potentially see a total solar eclipse on 5 August. The lead-in price is £1,499pp. 

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While guests on Arcadia will have the chance to witness the eclipse on the Iceland & British Isles cruise departing from Southampton, when it calls into Isafjordur. Prices start from £1,840pp. 

Britannia, which is currently in dry dock, will make maiden calls into nine ports, including Corfu, Aarhus and three ports in Iceland. 

Starting from Southampton on 19 August 2026, Aurora sailing will call into Istanbul which is the first time the line has visited the Turkish city since 2015. 

Ruth Venn, P&O Cruises sales director, told TTG the line had seen its highest new-to-cruise levels ever last year. 

To attract more new-to-cruise passengers, P&O Cruises has increased the number of seven-night sailings for 2026.

Both 5,200-passenger ships – Arvia and Iona – will offer four new seven-night Southern Mediterranean sailings, calling into Bilbao, La Coruna, Vigo and Cherbourg. Prices start from £649. 

In addition, Iona will operate eight seven-night Norwegian Fjords departures during the school holidays, offering families the chance to sail together. 

At the end of April, Britannia will emerge from dry dock with an expanded Loyalty and Cruise Sales area where passengers can book their future cruises. The line is adding a fourth desk to the area, more seating, digital screens and brochure racks. 

“It will feel like a shop as we want to capitalise on the high footfall onboard Britannia,” Venn explained. “That is ultimately good news for travel agents because the commission goes back to them.”

P&O Cruises also extended its contact centre to a seven-day operation ahead of today’s 2026 programme announcement to ensure agents get the support they need throughout the week. 

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Cruising the Moskva River: A short guide to boat trips in Russia’s capital

There’s hardly a better way to absorb Moscow’s atmosphere than on a ship sailing up and down the Moskva River. While complicated ticketing, loud music and chilling winds might dampen the anticipated fun, this checklist will help you to enjoy the scenic views and not fall into common tourist traps.

How to find the right boat?

There are plenty of boats and selecting the right one might be challenging. The size of the boat should be your main criteria.

Plenty of small boats cruise the Moskva River, and the most vivid one is this yellow Lay’s-branded boat. Everyone who has ever visited Moscow probably has seen it.

This option might leave a passenger disembarking partially deaf as the merciless Russian pop music blasts onboard. A free spirit, however, will find partying on such a vessel to be an unforgettable and authentic experience that’s almost a metaphor for life in modern Russia: too loud, and sometimes too welcoming. Tickets start at $13 (800 rubles) per person.

Bigger boats offer smoother sailing and tend to attract foreign visitors because of their distinct Soviet aura. Indeed, many of the older vessels must have seen better days. They are still afloat, however, and getting aboard is a unique ‘cultural’ experience. Sometimes the crew might offer lunch or dinner to passengers, but this option must be purchased with the ticket. Here is one such  option  offering dinner for $24 (1,490 rubles).

If you want to travel in style, consider Flotilla Radisson. These large, modern vessels are quite posh, with a cozy restaurant and an attentive crew at your service. Even though the selection of wines and food is modest, these vessels are still much better than other boats.

Surprisingly, the luxurious boats are priced rather modestly, and a single ticket goes for $17-$32 (1,100-2,000 rubles); also expect a reasonable restaurant bill on top.

How to buy tickets?

Women holding photos of ships promise huge discounts to “the young and beautiful,” and give personal invitations for river tours. They sound and look nice, but there’s a small catch: their ticket prices are usually more than those purchased online.

“We bought tickets from street hawkers for 900 rubles each, only to later discover that the other passengers bought their tickets twice as cheap!”  wrote  (in Russian) a disappointed Rostislav on a travel company website.

Nevertheless, buying from street hawkers has one considerable advantage: they personally escort you to the vessel so that you don’t waste time looking for the boat on your own.

Prices start at $13 (800 rubles) for one ride, and for an additional $6.5 (400 rubles) you can purchase an unlimited number of tours on the same boat on any given day.

Flotilla Radisson has official ticket offices at Gorky Park and Hotel Ukraine, but they’re often sold out.

Buying online is an option that might save some cash. Websites such as  this   offer considerable discounts for tickets sold online. On a busy Friday night an online purchase might be the only chance to get a ticket on a Flotilla Radisson boat.

This  website  (in Russian) offers multiple options for short river cruises in and around the city center, including offbeat options such as ‘disco cruises’ and ‘children cruises.’ This other  website  sells tickets online, but doesn’t have an English version. The interface is intuitive, however.

Buying tickets online has its bad points, however. The most common is confusing which pier you should go to and missing your river tour.

“I once bought tickets online to save with the discount that the website offered,” said Igor Shvarkin from Moscow. “The pier was initially marked as ‘Park Kultury,’ but when I arrived it wasn’t easy to find my boat because there were too many there. My guests had to walk a considerable distance before I finally found the vessel that accepted my tickets purchased online,” said the man.

There are two main boarding piers in the city center:  Hotel Ukraine  and  Park Kultury . Always take note of your particular berth when buying tickets online.

Where to sit onboard?

Even on a warm day, the headwind might be chilly for passengers on deck. Make sure you have warm clothes, or that the crew has blankets ready upon request.

The glass-encased hold makes the tour much more comfortable, but not at the expense of having an enjoyable experience.

Getting off the boat requires preparation as well. Ideally, you should be able to disembark on any pier along the way. In reality, passengers never know where the boat’s captain will make the next stop. Street hawkers often tell passengers in advance where they’ll be able to disembark. If you buy tickets online then you’ll have to research it yourself.

There’s a chance that the captain won’t make any stops at all and will take you back to where the tour began, which is the case with Flotilla Radisson. The safest option is to automatically expect that you’ll return to the pier where you started.

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Moscow to Saint Petersburg

13 days – 12 nights

Collapse Full Itinerary

Gold, Platinum  Airport transfer / Check-in at centrally located Marriott Aurora***** or Ararat Park Hyatt*****

Imperial : Private airport transfer / Check-in at the luxurious Four Seasons Moscow***** only a minute from the Kremlin and Red Square

Volga dream experience:

Gold: City Tour / Novodevichy Cemetery Imperial, Platinum:  City tour / Lunch in a Moscow City Skyscraper / Novodevichy Cemetery / Sparrow Hills

Meals: Breakfast

Platinum / Imperial

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Gold:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / GUM Department Store

Platinum:  Moscow Kremlin / Armory Museum / Red Square / St. Basil’s Cathedral / GUM Department Store / Park Zaryadye

Gold:  Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Platinum:  Leo Tolstoy House-Museum in Hamovniki / Tretyakov Gallery / Moscow Metro Tour.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Gold, Platinum:  Town of Uglich / Church of St. Dmitri-on-the-Blood

Volga dream experience: Costumed Russian Tea Ceremony & Russian Cooking Class

Gold, Platinum:  Yaroslavl City Tour / Governor’s house 

Volga dream experience: Sun Deck Barbeque

Gold:  Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery  

Platinum:  Ferapontov Monastery

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Russian Dinner with Vodka Tasting

Gold, Platinum: Kizhi Island / Lake Onega

Volga dream experience: Piano Concert – Compositions by Tchaikovsky and Rakhmaninov

Gold, Platinum:  Svirstroy village / Local resident’s home / Local primary school

Volga dream experience: Farewell Dinner, Captain’s cocktail

Gold:  City Tour / Peter and Paul Fortress

Platinum:  City Tour / St. Isaac’s Cathedral / Canal boat / Yusupov Palace

Gold:  The State Hermitage Museum / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Platinum:  The State Hermitage Museum (Early Entrance!) / Gold Room / Peterhof: Park and a historic Cottage

Gold:  Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Platinum:  Faberge Museum / Catherine’s Palace / Amber Room

Meals: Breakfast / Imperial

Gold, Platinum, Imperial: Check-out / Airport transfer

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Moscow (Russia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Russia Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-18 23:39

Moscow is a Volga River cruise port, Russia's capital and largest city (population over 12,2 million, metro 17 million). Moscow City covers a total area of approx 2610 km 2 (970 mi2). By population, the city is ranked the world's 14th largest. Moscow is one of the Russian Federation's all 3 federal cities - together with St Petersburg and Sevastopol .

Being Russian Federation's capital, Moscow is a major economic, political, scientific and cultural center, as well as Europe's biggest city.

According to Forbes 2013, Moscow has been ranked as the 9th most expensive city in the world by Mercer and has one of the largest urban economies, being ranked as an alpha global city according to Globalization and World Cities Research Network. It is also one of the fastest-growing tourist destinations in the world according to MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index. Moscow is the northernmost and the coldest megacity and metropolis on the Earth. It's home to Ostankino Tower, the tallest free-standing European structure; the Federation Tower, the tallest European skyscraper; and the Moscow International Business Center. 

Moscow is situated on Moskva River in the Central Federal District of European Russia, which makes it the most populated inland city in the world. Moscow city is well known for architecture, particularly its historic buildings like Saint Basil's Cathedral. With over 40% of its territory covered by greenery, it's one of the greenest capitals and major cities in Europe and the world. Moscow is the seat of power of the Russian Government, being the site of Moscow Kremlin, a medieval city-fortress that is now the residence of the President of Russia. Moscow Kremlin and Red Square are among the several World Heritage Sites in the city. 

Moscow has 2 passenger terminals, North River Terminal (Rechnoy vokzal) and South River Terminal. The regular ship routes and cruises along Moskva and Oka rivers are used mostly for entertainment. North River Terminal (1937-built) is currently the main hub for long-range routes along the river. There are 3 freight ports that serve Moscow.

In late-July 2021 the city announced plans to incorporate a fleet (unspecified number) of fully electric passenger ferries into its public transportation network from summer 2022, the goal being to reduce the dependence on cars.

• The boats are designed with length ~22 m (72 ft), passenger capacity 42, modern amenities (Wi-Fi, USB charging points, tables for working commuters), spaces for storing scooters and bicycles.
• Moscow Transport confirmed that two routes (with max daily capacity ~16,000 passengers) have already been mapped out.
• Passengers will be able to pay via bank cards, the city’s Troika card (smart card for travel by any public transportation) or biometric payment cards. Those with monthly/yearly public transit tickets will use the boats at no extra cost.
• The new electric ferry service is up to 5 times faster (in comparison to other city public transports) and ~2 times faster than by car.

Moscow cruise terminal

Moscow's cruise terminal is called North River Terminal or River Station  ("Rechnoy Vokzal" / "речной вокзал").

The terminal was opened in 1937 and is one of 2 passenger terminals (the other being South River Terminal) of the city's river transport. North River Terminal is the main hub for long-range (including cruise) shipping routes. 

South River Terminal (above photo) was opened in 1985.

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