Ardennais

We love Iona! Our favourite for years was Aurora but we would really miss the additional features now. Having said that, we would still sail on any ship if we fancied a particular itinerary. We can easily dodge the formals! Have to say, there were far fewer elderly guests on Iona. On Queen Vic in January there were so many walking sticks and walkers (including my mother). Just shows how important it is to do your research before booking. There’s something for everyone!

We did the Chef’s Table on Iona last Sunday. Don’t be put off by the disparaging ‘works canteen’ comments. Our meal was lovely - the food is exactly the same. Great atmosphere there - fun, relaxed, unstuffy. Light and airy - we were right by the window and it was lovely. I don’t drink alcohol either so not a problem.

Pleased to say that there was only one formal night on Iona this past week. Photographers present.

Our youngest was 10 when we started cruising but ours weren’t interested in the clubs or the pools. They loved Aurora when it was a family ship. Used to read and play board games for hours. We did a few Royal Caribbean cruises but they were dearer and apart from the ice rink, the children weren’t bothered with the other facilities.

We are also faving a fabulous time on Iona. Food has been really good - so much better than what we had on Britannia last year! Very clean everywhere. Last time on Iona it was half term and full plus about 1000 children - far fewer children this time and service is much quicker. We’ve been able to walk in and get a table for the eight of us without any problem - around 8.30. We really love Iona!

Playhouse on Aurora.

Ripples on Iona.

To be honest, it’s not that different to our view at home!!

Embarked Iona on Saturday. 4 cabins, different loyalty tiers. The two insides - Atlantic tier/first cruise had 13.30 and the two balconies - Med tier - had 14.45! So we jigged things around in the morning when leaving the hotel so that the 4 couples arrived at the correct time in the two cars. Mooched around West Quays, left there 30 minutes before embarkation time, waited about 10 mins in CPS queue and we were all aboard by the allotted time. Why do people make such a fuss I honestly don’t know.

Iona - Olden today

This is my view today!

I love the fact that tips are included.

I think that Olive Grove is only pre-bookable on Arvia.

From my quick look this morning, you’re right about some cruises having few days in port. Seems to be mainly Iona and Arvia which is a shame.

Two of my daughters took the chocolate class back in 2016 and worked as a pair. They made truffles and some other chocolate concoction and they said it was great fun. We were eating them for days afterwards!

We never take a photo beforehand. It’s not mandatory.

I get regular emails from FO. We would love to go from Liverpool but the prices are eye-watering!

Thanks Sue, really enjoyed your review and the great photos. We walked about 7 miles in Rotterdam last year too!

Your second week would have been school holidays in Wales. Easter weekend is always the middle weekend of the fortnight break here.

Sorry to hear that. I know from experience that Iona can be choc-a-block during school holidays so that probably meant that your cruise too was crowded. However it didn’t put me off as I quite liked Iona and our next cruise is on her, but during term time!

I agree, very reckless and irresponsible. What does the law say in Norway?

Does Seaside Hotel have subtitles? I don’t like subtitles but it sounds good! edit - just read your answer to this question!

I’ve never owned a tablecloth and never will!

Exactly! I think tablecloths are very old fashioned.

You witnessed a wedding there and we witnessed mourners leaving a funeral!