Travelling Light
#3 GB
We boarded P&O Iona...was it too big?
We’re back on P&O Iona for the first time since 2021… but this time the ship is sailing at full capacity. Four years ago, we experienced Iona at just 50% capacity with no crowds, no queues, and a very relaxed atmosphere. In 2026, things are very different. So the big question is: was it a mistake to come back? In this embarkation day vlog, we show you exactly what it’s like boarding P&O Iona now, including check-in, queues, food, sailaway, and our first impressions of how busy the ship really feels. We cover: Embarkation and check-in process at Southampton How busy the ship feels at full capacity First food stop at The Quays (including fish and chips review) Tips for boarding day, including booking shows and restaurants Quiet areas vs busy areas on a large cruise ship Sailaway experience – busy party vs peaceful alternatives First impressions of entertainment, dining, and atmosphere If you’re wondering whether P&O Iona feels too crowded, or whether you can still find quiet spaces on a large cruise ship, this video will give you an honest, real-world look at day one. We’re also testing whether it’s possible to recreate a “small ship experience” on one of the UK’s biggest cruise ships, so make sure you subscribe to follow the rest of the series. This cruise departs from Southampton and is part of a 2026 sailing on P&O Cruises Iona. 0:00 Introduction 0:30 Embarkation Information at Southampton 2:51 Muster Information 3:19 Lunch at The Quays 5:00 How busy is The Quays 6:54 Olive Grove booking tip 7:33 Inside Cabin 8:44 Booking Entertainment 9:07 Horizon Daily Programme 9:39 Complimentary Drinks 10:29 Hot Tubs 11:16 Are the Sun Decks busy? 13:36 Free Drinks 15:20 Advice for suitcases and packing 16:45 Sail Away Party 17:30 Deck 19 Sail Away 19:00 Unpacking 19:30 710 Club 21:11 Sunset on the Outside Decks 22:55 Alternative Milk Options 23:38 Dinner at The Olive Grove 25:42 The Clubhouse 26:18 Review of the Theatre and Show 27:00 Review of Embarkation Day Follow us on Socials: Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/travellinglightlisa/ Facebook | https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61550871332897 Website | travellinglighter.co.uk