P&O Cruises prepares Iona for delayed Norway debut

P&O Cruises newest ship Iona departs on its maiden summer season to the Norwegian fjords this week after Covid forced the cancellation of inaugural sailings last year.

The line’s largest vessel will run weekly departures from Southampton from April 9 until September.

Ex-SAS personnel and expert survival guides will take passengers on a  Rib ride on one of the excursions on offer, while another offers mountain hiking above Alesund.

Kayaking along Geirangerfjord followed by a wilderness barbecue lunch, cycling in Geiranger and yoga in the Blue Mountain Hall in Olden are other options.

Award-winning Norwegian restaurateur and P&O Cruises Local Food Hero, Kjartan Skjelde, has created a six-course fine dining taster menu on board.

P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “After a very successful inaugural season of UK coastal cruises and the winter in the Canaries and Europe, we are delighted to see Iona embark on her first season in the fjords.

“These holidays offer adrenaline experiences combined with the tranquility of the natural environment.

“Norway is a destination best experienced by sea and with new, memorable experiences both on board and on shore, guests can embrace an exciting wilderness and wellbeing adventure or simply sit back and enjoy the panoramas.”

Sample prices for seven nights lead in at £749 per person over the August bank holiday, dropping to £649 on September 3.