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P&O Cruises announce Iona’s Captain plus luxury spa

Written by Danny Bradley

Last Updated: 3rd March 2019

It’s been a weekend full of exciting developments for P&O Cruises and their new ship Iona! The countdown is well and truly on! Iona will be the largest ship specifically designed for the British market and is sure to have the wow factor.

Introducing Iona’s Captain

Behind every great holiday is a talented team of people who have worked hard to make it happen.

In preparation for Iona’s 2020 launch, P&O Cruises are proud to introduce you to her captain, Wesley Dunlop, who will lead Iona and her crew through her inaugural summer season in the Norwegian Fjords.

Iona's Captain

I think this is a fantastic choice and I am sure that Captain Dunlop will take Iona and help make her the best ship she can be! I can’t wait to get onboard and head to Norway on this beautiful ship. You can find out more about Iona’s new Captain in this great Q&A session with the man himself! Introducing Iona’s Captain, Wesley Dunlop.

In other news:
P&O Cruises Iona to herald new firsts in luxury spa 

Personally, I don’t really tend to use the spa onboard, but I am extremely passionate about health and wellbeing. So these latest developments, launching on Iona in Spring 2020, sound very enticing!

Taking relaxation to a new level

P&O Cruises will take relaxation and restoration to a new level when Iona launches in May next year, as it unveils details of the most luxurious wellness facility in its fleet. A salt steam room, destination themed treatments and infinity whirlpools are just some of the new features that will appeal to guests seeking to unwind completely.  

The addition of the salt steam room marks a first for the P&O Cruises fleet, offering an exclusive space based on the classic steam room but with the added advantage of a salt brine solution.  Salt therapy is a top spa trend and just a 45 minute treatment in the salt room offers enormous health and relaxation benefits.  

Also making its debut is the experiential retail boutique – a specialist spa shop dedicated to skin, body and hair care. It will be a haven for anyone looking for expert advice and a chance to explore and experiment with a wide range of products. 

Another new feature in Iona’s Spa will be a range of destination themed treatments.   These locally-inspired therapies will bring the destination into the spa.  Guests can choose from the Nordic Cleanse (a detoxifying treatment incorporating acupressure back massage and a warming body and face mask)or the Baltic & Ice Massage (adeep tissue massage using warm and cool stones).  Both these treatments have been inspired by the Nordic heritage of hot and cold therapies.

Similar to other ships in the fleet, Iona will have a private open-air deck area, The Retreat, where cold flannels, chilled drinks, snacks and alfresco spa treatments are offered in the privacy of shaded cabanas. Iona’s Retreat will also have two infinity whirlpools.   

Gym o’clock?

In Iona’s state of the art gym there is a new range of classes to suit every interest and ability from meditation to high energy spinning.  New classes include: 

  •  Boxing group fitness – a fun, physical cardio workout that builds strength and stamina
  •  TRX suspension – training to develop strength, balance, flexibility and core stability
  • Functional training/HIIT – a cardio workout to boost stamina and hone body conditioning
  • Mindful programming – connect mind, body and soul with meditation and breathing classes
  • Group Cycle Connect – the ultimate indoor cycling experience on high-tech fitness bikes
  • Skillrow classes – a group cardio workout that simulates a rowing crew

Our new spa on Iona will be ideal for those looking to make the most of their ‘me-time’.  From a restorative steam in our new salt room, to the relaxing qualities of a Nordic-inspired massage, guests will certainly feel the benefits whilst relaxing in this stylish space. — P&O Cruises president, Paul Ludlow

For more information head to www.pocruises.com


I am very excited for P&O Cruises new ship and can’t wait to explore Iona! We still have a while to go, but anticipation is half the excitement isn’t it?

Keep smiling and happy sailing.

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Hi, I’m Danny! 

Danny Bradley

AKA The Cruising Baker. Writer. Doctor. Cruiser. Baker. Anxiety warrior…I wear many hats, all of which add to the inspiration behind this website.

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Cruise NewsP&O Cruises announce Iona’s Captain plus luxury spa