Cruising in January Iona

We have been on Iona before, the ship was only 65% occupancy due to Covid-19 protocols. We enjoyed our two weeks onboard as the seas were smooth, the weather sunny & dry although cool in the mornings. Our stateroom was very comfortable & roomy with a good size balcony. Shower facilities also excellent.

Entertainment covers so many areas so plenty of choice.

Iona is a big ship which offers a lot of varying activities to its guests. This cruise was full, we found a big difference in service & hygiene standards. Our room steward was excellent. The dining room waiters not, seldom were we served by a waiter with a smile on their face. We chose to eat in the Speciality restaurants for 7 nights, so glad we did. Even though we used the booking system online we would still be asked by maitre d if we wanted to share! What is the point of booking a table for two? Very frustrating! Many tables for two are positioned right on the waiter station so are very noisy. Cannot have a conversation with your partner.

Two days before the end of the cruise the captain announced cases of ‘gastroenteritis’ were increasing. A letter was sent out that further cleaning measures would be carried out. We did not witness this, especially in the main dining room. Hand hygiene was poor throughout by the wait staff, never saw anti bacterial gel used at all. Waiters had several tables so cross infection was a concern.

We perhaps should stick to the smaller ships.