Iona’s first Norway adventure
It's been so worth the wait... After Iona's return from her first trip to the Norwegian fjords, we asked guests about what they enjoyed both on board and ashore whilst visiting this iconic destination.
A holiday to remember
Frequent guests Janice and Alan White from Cheltenham enjoyed visiting the Norwegian fjords during their first holiday on board Iona. They shared with us a few highlights:
Stunning scenary
So much to do on Iona
‘We usually travel on smaller ships and have found that we’ve enjoyed Iona in a different way – there’s so much to do.'
Iona: Queen of the Fjords
With panoramic viewing spots in her Grand Atrium, Iona is the ultimate way to see the Norwegian fjords. Guest Sian Purdy shared her experience of seeing the Fjords for the first time.
Cruising the Fjords in style
Unforgettable moments
'I’d always wanted to go to Norway and the chance to see them on Iona was too good to miss. When we got on board, we could feel the sense of excitement. There was such a great atmosphere: everyone was buzzing and so happy to be heading to the fjords at last.'
A spellbinding holiday
Shore experiences await you
Discover our Norway shore excursions
The inside track
After Iona’s first Norwegian Fjords cruise, we caught up with Senior Loyalty and Cruise Sales Manager Liz Gordon to hear about life on board and the joys of Norway.
What do you love the most about your job?
I love the way peoples’ faces light up when they’re booking their next adventure. It’s fantastic sharing their excitement and being the one to help make it a reality. On top of this, every day is different. I wake up in new and exciting destinations several times a week and meet interesting people all the time.
What's it like working on Iona?
Iona is such a beautiful ship and a pleasure to work on. It really took my breath away when I first stepped into her Grand Atrium. The environment is much more fast-paced than the other ships I’ve worked on due to the number of guests on board. It’s exciting and not without its own challenges – but these are what helps me to grow and develop in the role.
Tell us why Norway's so special?
I’ve been to Norway many times and it never fails to amaze me. I’m from inner-city London so the landscapes are just totally different. Olden is my favourite port of call and I can’t recommend enough the 4km hike to Huaren viewpoint. It starts near to where the ship docks and is quite steep but the views at the top are so worth it. Another great experience is Briksdal glacier. It’s incredible to think that within my lifetime this might cease to exist so you’ve got to see it while you can. If you prefer a more leisurely experience, take the Loen Skylift to the top of Mount Hoven for amazing panoramic views across the fjord.
Where's your go-to place to dine on board?
The Glass House is a favourite of mine with a menu that gives you the chance to try some new things. I recommend the Mini Scotch Eggs with Chickpeas and Edamame to start and the Big & Bold Chicken main (with three different styles of chicken). For dessert, it’s got to be the Baileys Truffle Tea Cake. The Glass House also boasts some of my favourite wines – Jam Shed being top of the list.
How do you spend your evenings on board?
There’s so much choice on board Iona, especially in the evenings with lots of venues providing new and exciting entertainment. There’s something for everyone, so you’re spoilt for choice. However, after full days of interacting with people, I usually head back to my cabin, do a bit of yoga and then settle down with a book.
What would you say to guests who haven't tried Iona yet?
I would recommend Iona to everyone. She’s beautiful, bright, and the Grand Atrium provides stunning views of the sea and the different destinations. On top of that, there’s loads of choice for dining, entertainment and lovely chill-out spaces.
What’s the most memorable moment of this first Iona cruise to Norway?
Sailing into Olden past countless snow-covered peaks was a unique experience as I’ve only ever been to this part of the world in summer when everything is green. The Grand Atrium was the best place to be for the sail-in: you’re out of the wind but still have incredible views.