Iona Suite Benefits

torsonwheels · May 1, 2023

Looking at booking a suite on Iona for the Fjords cruise.

Apart from the bigger space what are the benefits of booking a suite. Been reading up and I am just so confused.

Also any recommendations for particular suite numbers?

Any help appreciated

Thanks in advance

Selbourne · May 1, 2023

Firstly, I assume that you are talking about a full suite? I would avoid family suites and Conservatory Mini Suites as they are either on the promenade deck or marginally above it, so privacy is heavily compromised, as is outlook. Apart from the extra space, the main benefits include priority embarkation (useful on the very big ships) and the ability to have breakfast in Epicurean (posh / smaller restaurant) each day. Beyond that, Suite perks are minor bordering on insignificant.

As for location, I usually like aft suites, but on Iona they are set back from the edge of the ship some way and there is an outside bar (noise) and big canopy over it which can affect outlook from the lower decks. Others can advise how problematic that is, as we haven’t stayed in one on Iona or Arvia. It’s probably OK on the higher decks.

We decided that an EA grade Deluxe Balcony Cabin would suit us far better than a suite, as they are in a better location IMHO with less potential for noise disturbances and a better outlook. However, if it’s a special holiday, suites on Iona are a lot cheaper than on the smaller ships.

daiB · May 1, 2023

31 minutes ago, Selbourne said:

Firstly, I assume that you are talking about a full suite? I would avoid family suites and Conservatory Mini Suites as they are either on the promenade deck or marginally above it, so privacy is heavily compromised, as is outlook. Apart from the extra space, the main benefits include priority embarkation (useful on the very big ships) and the ability to have breakfast in Epicurean (posh / smaller restaurant) each day. Beyond that, Suite perks are minor bordering on insignificant.

As for location, I usually like aft suites, but on Iona they are set back from the edge of the ship some way and there is an outside bar (noise) and big canopy over it which can affect outlook from the lower decks. Others can advise how problematic that is, as we haven’t stayed in one on Iona or Arvia. It’s probably OK on the higher decks.

We decided that an EA grade Deluxe Balcony Cabin would suit us far better than a suite, as they are in a better location IMHO with less potential for noise disturbances and a better outlook. However, if it’s a special holiday, suites on Iona are a lot cheaper than on the smaller ships.

There are not as many suites on Iona as on Britannia or even Arcadia because there are none amidships which pushes up the price I am not using suites as much as I used to. However I end up with more cruises.

Selbourne · May 1, 2023

20 minutes ago, daiB said:

There are not as many suites on Iona as on Britannia or even Arcadia because there are none amidships which pushes up the price I am not using suites as much as I used to. However I end up with more cruises.

Yes, I noticed they are either forward (with steel fronted balconies) or aft (set back and above the Sunset Bar), neither of which appeal. Have you used the deck 10 EA grade accessible deluxe balcony cabins on Iona? From the deck plans they seemed to be in the best position.

daiB · May 1, 2023

7 minutes ago, Selbourne said:

Yes, I noticed they are either forward (with steel fronted balconies) or aft (set back and above the Sunset Bar), neither of which appeal. Have you used the deck 10 EA grade accessible deluxe balcony cabins on Iona? From the deck plans they seemed to be in the best position.

Yes 10437. Excellent cabin very good bathroom and good balcony with the easiest access I have ever seen automatic door and smooth threshold. Plenty wardrobes but no draws however plenty shelves. We invested in some collapsible boxes which worked a treat. Very cheap. Very good size not far short of a suite. The TV looks in the wrong place but it swivels away from the wall and can be seen in the whole cabin. We have the same cabin or the one next door for Oct and on Arvia in 24 and 25

Dai

Selbourne · May 1, 2023

5 minutes ago, daiB said:

Yes 10437. Excellent cabin very good bathroom and good balcony with the easiest access I have ever seen automatic door and smooth threshold. Plenty wardrobes but no draws however plenty shelves. We invested in some collapsible boxes which worked a treat. Very cheap. Very good size not far short of a suite. The TV looks in the wrong place but it swivels away from the wall and can be seen in the whole cabin. We have the same cabin or the one next door for Oct and on Arvia in 24 and 25

Dai

Brilliant. Thanks Dai. That’s the exact cabin we’ve booked for August and I’ve booked the next 2 adjacent deluxe balcony cabins for our daughters and partners. We didn’t like the location of the sole accessible suite. If the ship is rammed we shall enjoy the space and the balcony and just emerge for food and drink 😂

Windsurfboy · May 2, 2023

I think suites on big ships are actually much better value than smaller ships , but they do sell out quickly.

P&O website list suite benefits ,

Perks of a Suite include:

A whirpool bath*
Butler service*
Larger dressing area
Priority check-in and boarding (from Southampton)
Daily fresh fruit
Coffee machine
Free room-service
Exclusive restaurants
Bathrobe and slippers
Other exclusive touches
Daily steward service
Telephone
Hair dryer and safe
Tea and coffee facilities
Air conditioning
Vanity writing desk and chair
Beds convertible to twin or king-size bed to suit your needs*
Toiletries from The White Company
Champagne and chocolates on arrival
Canapés on embarkation and Celebration Nights

also see cruise with Amber for a list and good video of one of rear suites , which are to be recommended for bigger balcony. Except for breakfast suites don't have exclusive dining like on many lines, but then price is much less.

Windsurfboy · May 2, 2023

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New to cruising Cruise life

The Suite spot

A P&O Cruises Suite is more than just a place to stay – it’s an experience. We speak to Harriet Davis, a senior loyalty and cruise sales manager on Aurora, who tells us what makes a Suite so special, from breakfast to butlers.

6 min06 Mar 2021

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Editorial Team

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Q. If you’re sailing from Southampton, the benefits of a Suite begin on shore. Can you tell us about them?

A. As one of our Suite guests, you’ll be checked in with priority and welcomed into our hospitality lounge by our Loyalty team, where you can relax with a selection of teas, coffees and fresh pastries while you chat with your fellow guests. You’ll then be escorted by our Loyalty team onto the ship with our Ligurian tier guests, to settle into on-board life before our other guests arrive.

Q. And what about once guests are on board? What are some of the extra luxuries they’ll be treated to?

A. When you step on board, you’ll be directed to an exclusive welcome reception, where you can enjoy a selection of drinks – including a glass of bubbly – to begin your holiday in style. You’ll also be invited to breakfast where you can welcome the morning with your fellow Suite guests in the privacy and comfort of a Suite-exclusive venue.

Q. What about the Suites themselves? What amenities will guests discover?

A. A Suite is the ultimate VIP experience. A bottle of Champagne will be on ice in your room, waiting to welcome you to your new home on board. While you sit in the comfort of your own lounge or breathe in the fresh air on your balcony, you can pour yourself a coffee, which are delivered on embarkation and celebration night. For ultimate relaxation, make use of your premier White Company toiletries with a dip in your whirlpool bath†, then wrap up in your luxurious white dressing gown and slippers.

Q. Can you tell us about the butler service? How can it enhance the Suite experience?

A. Your butler is your private member of the P&O Cruises team. They can enhance your stay by allowing you to sit back and relax while they make arrangements at your request. From organising your shore experiences to booking dinner in a Select Dining restaurant, your butler can make your holiday even easier by facilitating all your activities on board.

Q. Why is a Suite a good choice for families or groups? And for couples?

A. It’s great for families because of the space it offers. All our ships have Suites that can sleep up to four guests. On Azura and Ventura, we offer Family Suites that can sleep up to six with two bedrooms and two bathrooms – and that’s in addition to the lounge and balcony, which are perfect for sharing and socialising. For couples, it’s the perfect romantic getaway. Imagine soaking up the ocean views from your private balcony while enjoying a bottle of bubbly. Your cabin is a home-away-from-home with luxurious touches.

Q. Aurora’s recent refit included updates to the Suites. What has changed and what can guests look forward to?

A. The refit has given Aurora’s Suites a fresher and brighter look. A cool blue, grey and white colour scheme reflects the ship’s style and ocean surroundings. From the new carpet and furniture to the soft furnishings and decorative touches, every effort has been made to help you feel special. Bathrooms boast showers and whirlpool baths; in the lounge, large-screen TVs give you the perfect excuse for a cosy night in catching up on your favourite shows or films.

Q. As a loyalty and cruise sales manager, what kind of feedback do you receive from guests who have stayed in a Suite?

A. Our Suite guests enjoy the VIP treatment and luxury amenities that the rooms offer. Coupled with the services of the butler, who is there to make their stay as comfortable as possible, many guests will only book Suites on future cruises.

Q. What advice would you give to someone who’s considering booking a Suite for their next P&O Cruises holiday?

A. I’d say do it! It’s the ultimate sailing experience. Having that extra space really makes a difference, whether you’re travelling as a couple or with friends or family. For families in particular, a Suite can be really great value. And the little luxuries are a real treat, from breakfast in the morning to sailing out of port on your private balcony. A stay in a Suite will make your time with us all the more memorable.

† Some exceptions apply

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