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P&O Iona

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A guide to dining options and restaurants on iona cruise ship (overview + photos).

Discover the different dining options on Iona and start planning where to eat on your cruise.

With around 30 bars and restaurants on P&O’s Iona, it’s safe to say you won’t be going hungry or thirsty during your cruise. From casual snack bars to formal dining, there really is something for everyone onboard whatever your taste. So, whether you are peckish around the pool or celebrating a special occasion, you’ll find a dining option to suit.

As one of the newest ships in P&O’s fleet , some of the bars and restaurants were newly created, just for Iona. However, many of the old favourites from other ships make a welcome return too.

Having cruised on Iona twice and spent two weeks onboard, I feel like I’ve tried almost all of the places to eat. So, I thought I’d put together this guide to the restaurants on Iona and what you can expect.

Dining on Iona

Cruise ship restaurants generally provide a high standard of food and Iona is no different. As you might expect dining on Iona is geared towards British tastes, however, with itineraries around the Norwegian Fjords and the Mediterranean don’t be surprised to see some dishes inspired by Norway and Spain on the menu.

Many of the restaurants on board are included in your cruise fare and there is enough choice that you don’t really need to pay anymore for food. However, if you want to splash out for a special occasion or even just celebrate being on holiday then there are several speciality restaurants to choose from. They do come with extra charges but it is usually less than what you’d pay for a night out on land.

You might recognise a few famous faces at some of the restaurants. P&O partners with several celebrity chefs – known as Food Heroes – to create innovative menus and some memorable dining experiences on Iona.

Overview of restaurants on Iona

This guide features the restaurants on Iona. If you would like to read more about the bars onboard, I have put together a separate bar guide. Take look if you are interested to see the places where you can get a drink.

Before we get into the detail of each of the restaurants, here is a quick overview.

• Aqua, Coral, Opal and Pearl (main dining rooms)
• Horizon (buffet)
• Sindhu (extra charge)
• The Beach House (extra charge)

The Chef’s Table

• The Epicurean (extra charge)
• The Glasshouse (extra charge)
• The Keel & Cow (extra charge)
• The Limelight Club (extra charge)
• The Olive Grove (extra charge on a couple of items)
• The Quays (food court)

Other eateries on Iona include

• Grab and Go Bar
• Ripples – ice cream (extra charge)

Vista Cafe Bar

What is freedom dining on iona.

Iona offers freedom dining in the main (and some of the casual) restaurants which basically means you can eat when you want. You are not restricted to set times. That said, if you want to eat at a particularly popular time, you may have a little wait.

When you are ready to eat you just join a virtual queue on the My Holiday app or get a pager from your restaurant of choice and when a table is ready, they’ll let you know

On my first cruise on Iona, I used to join the queue as I was getting ready and then by the time I had finished, it was only a short wait (if any) for a table. On my second, I ate in the main dinning room twice with a group of solo travellers. We found the easiest way to get a table to was to go down to the dining room in person.

Tip: If you know roughly when you’d like to eat, keep an eye on the virtual queues in the half-hour or so beforehand. Then if it starts to get busy, you can jump in the queue.

So, don’t despair if it seems like you can’t get a table, there are multiple ways to get seated in the main dining rooms.

P&O Iona restaurants included in your cruise fare

Main dining rooms.

(Decks 6 and 7, Aft)

There are four main restaurants on Iona – Aqua, Coral, Opal and Pearl. Coral and Pearl are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Aqua is open for breakfast and dinner. Opal is open for dinner.

In the morning you have the choice of a hot or continental breakfast. The continental breakfast offers fruit juice, yoghurts, cereals, fruit, toast, pancakes and a variety of pastries and muffins. Healthier options include porridge, muesli, granola and quite possibly the world’s smallest smashed avocado on sourdough toast (evidence below).

Tip: order two…

All the usual suspects are on offer in the hot breakfast including bacon, baked beans, grilled mushrooms, hash browns, kippers, smoked haddock, salmon and tomato. You can also have eggs any way you like – boiled, fried, poached or scrambled. Eggs Benedict is also available.

Hot drinks include a selection of teas and coffees and hot chocolate.

At lunch, you have a choice of sandwiches, salads or something more substantial such as salmon fillet, cottage pie or chicken fajitas etc. Sides including chips, garlic bread and mixed vegetables are also available. As is dessert, if you have any room left.

For dinner, there is a fairly wide range of options and plenty of British classics are included such as steak and chips .

Afternoon Tea

The daily afternoon tea in the Aqua dining room is sadly no longer available. However, you should be able to get some sandwiches, cake and tea in the Horizon Restaurant around 3pm each day. The photo below is from the old afternoon tea so you get an idea of what cakes might be on offer.

If you fancy something a bit more special and more like a proper afternoon tea with service then you can book into The Epicurean for this. Just keep in mind this will come at an extra cost.

Horizon Restaurant

(Deck 16, Aft)

On the Lido deck, you’ll find the Horizon restaurant, aka the buffet!

Horizon is open pretty much all day and late into the evening. So whether you are after breakfast, lunch, dinner, a snack or a midnight feast you should find something here. All come with a side of spectacular sea views.

There is a wide variety of food, which mainly caters to British tastes but also offers dishes from around the world. Food is self serve so grab a plate and you are good to go.

If you have food allergies or dietary requirements, keep an eye on the menu cards for each dish. They highlight what they contain and if they are gluten free.

While it can get busy here, there is plenty of seating space available so it shouldn’t be too hard to find somewhere to sit and eat. Head to far end of the seating area as it’s usually pretty quiet there from my experience.

Tip: If you are heading to the late-night buffet – and who isn’t? – get there early, it can get very busy so expect a bit of a queue at times.

(Deck 8, Aft)

The Quays is a new concept for P&O and was first introduced on Iona before also being added to Arvia. The food court-like space has three stands and a small buffet area. If you want to grab some food with no fuss, this is where to head.

The food stands are

• Boardwalk Dinner – American classics including burgers and hot dogs
• Fusion – Asian inspired dishes
• Hook, Line and Vinegar – fish and chips

There is a nice relaxed seating area, with plenty of space including some outdoor seating.

The food here is very good, particularly the British classic of fish and chips. It all seems to be freshly made too so it’s not sitting around too long. I ended up eating here quite a lot when I was onboard. It is a great addition and a nice alternative to the buffet.

Tip: The Quays also offers breakfast so if you don’t want the formality of a sit-down breakfast in one of the main dining rooms or the scrum of the buffet then head here. You’ll have the choice of pancakes, omelettes, a fry up and a selection of pastries and muffins.

(Horizon Restaurant, Deck 16, Aft)

On celebration night part of the Horizon Restaurant is taken over by The Chef’s Table. The area is given a glow up and an exclusive menu created by P&O Food Heroes Marco Pierre White and Eric Lanlard is served. The meal is accompanied by wine recommendations from Olly Smith.

On my most recent cruise I managed to book a table and it didn’t disappoint. The meal started with a shot of gazpacho soup, laced with P&O’s cruises own gin. I then had the white tomato panna cotta to start, classic beef wellington as my main and cherry jubilee (buttermilk pancake) for dessert.

It was easily the best meal I had all week on Iona. The pictures below don’t quite do it justice!

The Chef’s Table is included in your cruise fare so if you would like a celebration night to remember, this is definitely something to consider

I’m a solo traveller and I thought it might have felt a bit awkward eating at the Chef’s Table alone, but actually it was fine. So, if you are thinking the same, don’t worry too much. Just go for it. You won’t regret it.

Tip: If you wish to eat at The Chef’s Table on celebration night, keep an eye out for when bookings open. Tables go very quickly. If you are unable to book, check at reception on board to see if they can book you in or add you to a waitlist.

The Olive Grove

Also new to Iona is The Olive Grove. This Mediterranean style restaurant serves a selection of pasta, pizza and other favourites from the region.

The modern rustic feel makes it easy to forget you are on a ship and not actually in the Mediterranean. Thankfully the floor to ceiling windows with views over the promenade deck and out to sea are there to remind you. As with many areas on Iona, the design of this restaurant provides a real sense of bringing the outdoors inside.

Tip: Try to get a table in the conservatory area so you can enjoy the natural light and views while dining.

Most items on the menu here are included in your cruise fare but a couple had a small surcharge so check the menu before ordering to avoid a surprise bill.

The food here is fabulous, the service wonderful and it is just a really nice place for a relaxing meal. My tips are the mushroom ravioli and lasagna (so good I went back twice on my first cruise on Iona and three times on the second).

If you would like to eat at the Olive Grove my advice is to book as soon as you can. Evenings seem to get booked up very quickly, lunchtimes less so. You can always cancel if you change your mind.

Other eateries included in your cruise fare

Grab and go.

In theory, you are supposed to be able to pick up sandwiches and salads at the Grab and Go Bar. So, if you are heading out on a shore excursion or spending the day by the pool this would be a good option if you don’t want to interrupt your day and go to one of the restaurants or eateries onboard or onshore.

Except, it never seems to be open. It has not been available on any of the three P&O cruises I’ve done. So best to check before heading there and have a backup plan if you want to grab a snack to take out with you. It’s a great idea and hopefully will be open again one day.

(Deck 16, Midship)

If you get hungry during a long day by the SkyDome pool, fear not. Just a few steps away, you’ll find Taste 360 serving up freshly cooked burgers, pizzas and hot dogs alongside regional street food inspired by the destinations Iona visits.

To be honest, it wasn’t the best pizza I’ve ever had but for a quick snack it was perfectly fine. Plus its super handy to grab a bite to eat without having to head to the buffet or one of the main dining rooms.

Restaurants with an extra charge

The beach house.

A bit like a popup restaurant, The Beach House takes over an area of the Horizon Restaurant in the evening. The vibe is relaxed and fun. It is a bit of a halfway house if would like a casual dinner but don’t want to take your chances in the buffet.

The menu is inspired by American, Caribbean and South American cuisine so expect dishes such as steaks, grills, burgers, kebabs and various sharing plates.

The Epicurean

(Deck 17, Forward)

If you are looking for a fine dining experience inspired by the places Iona visits, then look no further than The Epicurean.

This grand elegant dining room is probably the most formal of all the restaurants onboard and the emphasis is on service and presentation. In fact, part of the meals are prepared in front of you so expect a bit of culinary theatre on display.

The Glasshouse

(Deck 7, Atrium)

Located in The Grand Atrium, The Glasshouse is a nice spot for a light lunch or dinner. Small plates such as lamb skewers, tempura king prawns and humous dips are served here. Or if you fancy something a bit more substantial look out for the steaks, sliders and fish and chips.

All dishes have a wine recommendation from P&O’s Food Hero, Olly Smith, for the perfect accompaniment.

If you time your meal right you might catch some aerial entertainment in the The Grand Atrium which is a sight to see.

The Keel and Cow

(Deck 8, Atrium)

Popular gastropub, The Keel and Cow is also located in The Grand Atrium. Dishes on offer include steak, pie and mash and the Prime Minister burger, which P&O claim to be the best burger at sea. There is also a selection of craft ales and bottled beers served here.

You can also get breakfast here apparently, though I only discovered that once I returned home. I don’t remember seeing it open in the morning. It would make a nice breakfast spot for a change so worth keeping an eye out to see if it does open for breakfast.

It does feel a bit strange having a couple of restaurants in the middle of the atrium but it kind of works. There is bit of a buzz and with views over the atrium and out to sea, it is a great spot for a bite to eat if you like to be in the centre of the action.

The Limelight Club

(Deck 6, Forward)

A combination of entertainment venue and restaurant, the Limelight Club pairs a three-course meal with performances by some of Britain’s musical talents. Recent acts include La Voix, Ray Quinn and Lee Mead.

So, if you are looking for an extra special night out onboard then this is for you. There is limited capacity in the club and the evening is very popular. So, if you’d like to book get in early. Bookings usually open around two or three weeks before you sail on your cruise personaliser.

After the dinner and show experience has ended, the club is open to all. The house band do a couple of sets and are very good – easily one of the best on the ship.

(Deck 8, Midship)

Celebrating the best of contemporary Indian cuisine but with a British twist, Sindhu is another one of Iona’s popular dining venues. The menu was not for me here so I haven’t eaten there. However, you’ll generally find good reviews if you do a quick search. My friends enjoyed their meal there too.

Other eateries with an extra charge

There is always time for ice cream on holiday right? And the ice cream on Iona doesn’t disappoint.

Ripples, Iona’s gelateria is on deck eight and offers a wide selection of ice cream, lollies, gelato cakes and even a gelato afternoon tea. It’s very hard to walk past here and not grab an ice cream, it is that good. It is perfectly placed for dessert after dinner in The Quays. You can also get a Costa Coffee here.

Sundaes, next to the SkyDome pool on deck 16, serves up ice cream in a variety of flavours including chocolate, salted caramel, strawberries and cream and vanilla. Costa Coffees and teas are also served here.

(Deck 6, Atrium)

At the heart of The Grand Atrium, the Vista Cafe Bar is the perfect spot to watch the world go by or enjoy fabulous sea views over a cuppa. Or in my case, do a bit of work/writing while trying not to be distracted by said sea views.

Open all day until late, the cafe serves Costa Coffee, Teapigs tea and a selection of cakes by Eric Lanyard. As a slightly obsessive tea drinker, the tea here is definitely the best on the ship and well worth the small charge.

The Last Word

While the choice of places to eat on Iona is almost overwhelming, it does mean pretty much everyone is catered for so you should find a dining option for you.

I found that once onboard, you quickly get a feel for which restaurants and eateries you prefer. Though it is tempting to have a crack at eating in them all!

The addition of The Quays is a great alternative to the buffet and was one of my favourite places to eat. It was perfect for an embarkation day lunch or a quick light dinner before an evening of entertainment.

Having a number of restaurants included in your cruise fare that could probably be considered speciality restaurants is also a nice touch. You can have a dining experience not restricted to the main dining rooms or the buffet at no extra charge.

Wherever you eat while onboard make sure you pack some trousers/skirts with an elastic waist. You’ll probably end up needing them.

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10 thoughts on “ A guide to dining options and restaurants on Iona Cruise Ship (overview + photos) ”

Hi Emma, Found your site when just Googling around Iona for our forthcoming North Sea cruise and the info is so helpful, thank you. With all the booking talked about all the time in emails from P and O, I’m worried that it’s going to be a test rather than a holiday and I hope it doesn’t feel like that! We are a group of 12, three generations, so I know we’re going to have to be organised. You say Olive Grove is included with one or two extra payments for certain items, but P and O don’t mention that and list it as an ‘additional charge’ restaurant? Can you clarify please? Thanks again for all the info.

Hi Debbie, try not to worry too much. It will be fine once you are onboard. When I visited the Olive Grove (more than once as it’s so nice), most items on the menu were included. However, a few had an extra charge and this was clearly marked on the menu. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Thanks so much for this review Emma, it helped me and my family quite a bit for a recent Iona Fjords cruise holiday. Loved every minute of this holiday!

Hi Scott, thanks for your kind comment. Glad you enjoyed your time on Iona. Have you booked again yet? Emma

Have just google searched Iona restaurants and your site came up, its amazingly informative! Would you book the Olive Grove for Celebration Night or should we book it for another night and go to one of the main restaurants as we might miss out on something?

Hi Scott, thanks for the kind comment. Ooh that is a tough question. I love the Olive Grove although not been there on Celebration Night. Last time on Iona I did the Chef’s Table (in Horizon) that night which was very good. Would definitely recommend that. I’d check when on board what menu the Olive Grove is serving, I’m not sure if it is the regular menu or a special one on Celebration Night. Plus I guess it may also depend on whether you want to dress up or not. You could get the best of both worlds and book the main dining room for Celebration Night and the Olive Grove another night. That way you get to experience both. Enjoy your cruise. Emma

Olive Grove staff treated us very good and with a smile.nothing was any trouble we went several times and were overjoyed each time. Occasional visits to the pearl restaurant which to us was everything we desired.thank you iona from Brian and june r. Roberts.

Hi June, glad to hear you had great time. I love the Olive Grove too, great food and wonderful staff. Emma

Hi Emma do you have to book breakfast on the app for Iona or can you just rock up?

Hi Christine. I’ve always just rocked up.Buffet and The Quays, just turn up when you are ready.Does get busy but I’ve always been able to find a table. The main dining rooms, I usually just rock up too and had not any problems. Occasionally a short wait but been ok. I’d perhaps try to book on a sea day though, I had an 10.30am excursion on a Sunday in Zeebrugge and had trouble getting breakfast that day but that has been the only issue I had. Enjoy your cruise.

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P&O Iona Restaurants and Bars

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Join me on a deck-by-deck breakdown and a virtual tour of all the bars and restaurants that are available on P&O cruises newest cruise ship Iona, the largest cruise ship ever built for the UK market. 

What restaurants are on Iona?

Iona features a staggering total of 30 bars and restaurants, and with so much on offer, it could be hard to choose where to visit first. Thankfully (and helpfully) P&O have split Iona’s dining, bar and café venues into different categories – each offering a perfect solution to match any mood or occasion.

• Fresh and informal venues are perfect when you need a quick pick-me-up or fancy relaxing for an hour with a book and a long drink. From buffets to poolside snack bars, these casual spots are the perfect places to stop by and tuck into a tasty bite. Options are available all day and even late at night.
• Contemporary flavours venues offer light bites to decadent dinners, with a menu for every appetite and destination-inspired dishes. Again, these are available throughout the day.
• Served with entertainment venues are where to head to if you want to soak up some live music – either while enjoying your favourite drink or feasting on sumptuous three-course dinner.
• Chic and special venues have the wow factor and certainly hit the mark when it comes to celebrating a special occasion. These venues boast chic surroundings, flawless service and delicately crafted, delectable dishes.
• Family favourite venues include lounges and deck bars closest to where the fun is happening – you’ll usually find these around or close to the pool areas. These venues offer great food and good times for all the clan.

P&O Cruises Iona Restaurant and Bar tour

I have studied the deck plans, photos and artists renderings to try to give you the best tour possible without actually stepping aboard. 

At this point in time, I was hoping to be able to bring you a full tour of Iona, along with an aft suite tour (having sailed on her in August 2020 to the Norwegian fjords) and an aft cabin tour (after our sailing in October to northern Europe). Sadly, plans had to change – but I promise I will still bring you the full tour at some point in the near future when I finally get to sail on her. Until then, here’s something to whet your appetite. 

So, let’s start the tour at the very top and work our way down on a delicious journey through the ship.

You may also be interested in….

Beachcomber Bar

Previous Next

Location: Forward Category: Family Favourites

As you’ll see from the deck plan, this bar is right next to the Beachcomber pool and is situated at the front of the ship. It looks like quite a sunny spot with the added benefit of being somewhat sheltered from the wind but still open to the sun from the sky deck above. Perfect.

This bar is also right next to the Retreat and I’m guessing this might be the adults only pool if it’s similar to the layout on Britannia. Thanks to William Kruis (@williamkruis) for these fantastic aerial shots taken whilst Iona made a brief call in Rotterdam in January 2021. This space also looks spectacular when lit up in the evening.

Panorama Bar

Location: Mid Aft/Aft Category: Family Favourites Continuing on deck 18, if you prefer to be high up and have views of the wake then the Panorama bar is a perfect option. From the initial artists impression, photos and animations, it looks like there will be plenty of shaded places to sit whilst you admire spectacular views. It is also located right next to one of the highest pools (the Panorama pool) aboard the ship if you fancy a quick dip.

The Panorama bar is also closest to the sports court, so it looks like the perfect place to cool off with a refreshing drink after you’ve won that game of tennis or football. Or alternatively if you wish, just bypass the tennis of football altogether and go straight to the cool drink.

Let’s head down now to deck 17 for some more culinary goodies.

The Epicurean

Location: Forward (Port) Category: Chic and Special Ah – The Epicurean; expect classic dining with a modern British twist all in a very sophisticated and elegant setting where you don’t feel rushed. We all know that the Epicurean restaurants aboard the P&O fleet are something special. But it looks like Iona has brought us a whole new level of special.

On Iona, the flavours of the fjords will also spring to life in The Epicurean. This is a six-course taster menu created by award-winning chef Kjartan Skjelde. using seasonal, local produce, to deliver a Nordic fine dining experience on board.

It’s also pleasing to see that Eric Lanlard’s Afternoon Tea is taking up residency once again in The Epicurean – so we can all relax that we won’t be denied the chance to indulge in a platter of beautifully presented decedent sweet and savoury treats from the master pâtissier himself.

The Crow’s Nest

Location: Forward Category: Chic and Special The Crow’s nest on Iona is the place to go to savour glorious ocean views and classic cocktails with a twist. By day, the mood is going to be restful for reading and relaxing. Then, by night, things take a sophisticated turn for night owls with a live pianist and a stylish late-lounge ambiance.

Location: Midship (Port) Category: Family Favourites The Sky Bar is located on the mezzanine level in Iona’s signature Sky Dome. You’ll have already seen the Sky Bar featured in some of the first artists’ renderings. This bar looks like a wonderful place during the day to sit back and relax or to grab a delicious refreshing cocktail or cool drink whilst alternating between hot tub and swimming pool.

As the sun sets in the stars come out, the stunning two-deck glass Sky Dome takes on another life as the perfect venue for an evening of live entertainment and a sizzling party atmosphere. Come here to experience two new live shows, ‘Rise’ and ‘Triboo’ which have been specially created to reflect their performance environment which provides panoramic views of sea and sky.

https://youtu.be/iU4mG7Pc0uAhttps://youtu.be/7ZSaFIB2O7M

Location: Midship (Port) Category: Fresh and Informal One of Iona’s signature venues and located in the Sky Dome directly under the Sky Bar, Taste 360 is a street food style dining experience on deck. 

Local Food Heroes have created exclusive dishes which will be rotated according to Iona’s itineraries for example José Pizarro has created exciting Spanish flavours for Iona’s holidays to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands. On Iona’s summer holidays to the Norwegian Fjords, Marte Marie will create traditional Norwegian, home-style food.

Crystal Bar

Location: Midship (Port) Category: Family Favourites You can find the Crystal Bar directly opposite Taste 360. You will find a hub of different bars and dining options within Iona’s Sky Dome and you could quite easily base yourself here all day. Whether you wish to grab a morning coffee with a spectacular sea view or pop in for a relaxing lunch with a side order of vitamin sea or even head up here as the sun goes down for your evening entertainment, the Sky Dome is a venue which transforms throughout the day.

The Sky Dome has a relaxing and natural feel with a variety of seating options – whether you decide to sprawl out on a sun lounger or catch up with a few chapters of your favourite book in a reclining chair. Above all else you are never far from an array of dining options and bars.

Laguna Bar & Sundaes

Location: Midship (Starboard) Category: Family Favourites Located next to Taste 360 in the Sky Dome, the Laguna Bar and Sundaes is the place to go for a sweet treat serving a full selection of premium ice cream. As the sun goes down, Iona’s covered Sky Dome ensures that this is also the perfect spot for pre-dinner drinks on Gala Evenings, whatever the weather.

Beach House

Location: Midship (Starboard) Category: Fresh and Informal Similar to other P&O ships in the fleet, the Beach House is an area of the Horizon Restaurant which transforms into a fun and informal Select Dining venue each evening (a small cover charge applies). Offering relaxed dining, this family favourite always gets the thumbs up.

Inspired by Caribbean and Southern American classics with a playful twist, the Beach House always offers hearty dishes and comfort-food favourites such as hanging kebabs, sizzling cook-your-own steaks and delectable chocolate fondues.

Horizon Restaurant

Location: Midship and Mid Aft Category: Fresh and Informal Whatever you fancy, whatever the time of day, this all-day dining venue offers an incredible variety of food from home and around the world to suit every appetite and dietary need. The Horizon Restaurant offers a spacious, elegant and relaxed space for breakfast lunch and dinner, with ocean vistas on the side.

The Horizon Restaurant is also the venue you will find the kids tea which is located in a specially reserved area of the restaurant, available exclusively to younger guests serving firm favourites each evening from 5 PM.

Grab & Go

Location: Aft Category: Fresh and Informal Grab and go is a fantastic option for a quick bite to eat if you don’t want to waste time queueing up in the horizon restaurant for lunch. Located in between the Infinity pool and the Sports Court, you can quickly pop in and take your pick of a mouth-watering array of self-service snacks such as satisfying sandwiches, fresh salads, and light yogurt and fruit pots.

This is an ideal and relaxed option which gives you more time to soak up the sun and admire the panoramic sea views on deck. As the Grab & Go is also located near the lifts, there is nothing stopping you popping up here to grab something to take back to your cabin to enjoy a quiet lunch whilst relaxing on your private balcony on a sea day.

Infinity Bar

Location: Aft (Starboard) Category: Family Favourites Located next to the infinity pool, this poolside bar offers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and is perfectly placed for al fresco refreshment when relaxing by the infinity pool.

Located near to the Grab & Go and the Horizon Restaurant, this is likely to be an excellent venue to base yourself on a sunny sail away. In the evening it also acts as an amazing location to watch the sunset over the wake with a sundowner from an elevated vantage point.

We now head down a few decks past the accommodation on decks 15 to 9 and arrive in Iona’s Grand Atrium on Deck 8: promenade deck.

The Promenade deck is mainly splitting into two sections: the first section at the front of the ship is given over to accommodation and here you will find cabins numbered between 8101 to 8341. Then from midship to the aft you will find a range of restaurants, cafe bars and a main dining room.

The Keel & Cow

Location: Midship Category: Contemporary Flavours The Keel and Cow offers a contemporary take on gastropub dishes, located on deck eight in the Grand Atrium. It serves food from breakfast until late. This is the place to dine if you like gastro food paired with craft ales and draft and bottled beers.

Expect to work your way through mouth-watering gastropub meals including burgers, fish and chips, pie and mash and prime steak from the dry ageing fridge along with Iona’s new signature burger The Prime Minister, billed as the best burger at sea.

If you don’t fancy the formality of the main dining room then this is an excellent choice (a small cover charge applies) and I expect it will serve an ample variety of delicious dishes to keep you interested throughout a seven-night cruise.

Sindhu & Sindhu Bar

Location: Midship (Starboard) Category: Contemporary Flavours A firm favourite on the P&O cruises fleet of ships. I’m so happy that this restaurant has been included on Iona. Sindhu never fails to provide a thrill for your taste buds. Here you can count on the usual rich, stylish and sumptuous decor accompanied by contemporary Indian cuisine.

One of the things I love so much about Sindhu is that regardless of whether you like your Indian cuisine hot or more delicately spiced, Sindhu always delivers gorgeous platters. One visit may not be enough.

I’m also hoping that Sindhu continues to offer embarkation day and lunchtime deals. Sindhu will be a tiffin-style lunch available on sea days (a tiffin is a type of light teatime meal served around 3 PM). I can’t wait to try this, as it sounds very exciting and I’m sure the presentation in Tiffin style carriers is going to be spot on.

Location: Midship (Port) Category: Family Favourites Featuring Snowflake Luxury Gelato, expect to find a blend of British and Italian flavours in traditional cones with a myriad of toppings to choose from. Visit this venue to sample a Gelato afternoon tea or if that doesn’t take your fancy you may wish to opt for cookies and ice cream sundaes. Whatever you choose, I’m sure there will be many return visits here during your time on board if you have a sweet tooth.

Location: Mid Aft (Port) Category: Fresh and Informal If you’re after an informal dining option which includes an array of eateries and restaurants, then the Quays is the place to head to.

The Quays will serve family friendly food whether you’re after a quick snack, a light lunch or an informal dinner. This sounds as if it will be quite a hub for socialising and meeting up with your fellow passengers.

The Quays promises a “beachfront promenade vibe” and I’m quite excited by this as it sounds like a wonderful place to spend the day watching the world go by. As there is direct access onto the promenade deck this will be the perfect place on a sea day. Take your pick from:

• The Boardwalk Diner, offering, American classics and Southern soul food, or
• Fusion , perfect for lovers of authentic Asian flavours, or head to
• Hook Line and Vinegar if the sea air has given you you a craving for traditional British fish and chips.

The Olive Grove

Location: Mid Aft (Starboard) Category: Fresh and Informal If you love your Mediterranean food, then the Olive Grove is definitely a venue you should put high up on your list.

Located within the Quays, but on the starboard side, It promises to serve moreish Mediterranean meals all day long. I particularly like the sound of the Moroccan lamb tagine, along with grazing boards of tasty regional specialities and classic Spanish paella.

The Club House

Location: Aft Category: Fresh and Informal The Club House is a versatile and fun space. In the afternoons, it’s an ideal spot for families. Expect games entertainment and even the occasional game show.

This space also boasts bar areas leading to the outdoor aft end of the Promenade Deck. When the sun goes down, The Club House becomes Iona’s late-night venue, offering entertainment and dancing in a modern ‘live lounge’ environment with Iona’s house band, Pulse

The Sunset Bar

Location: Aft Category: Family Favourites The name says it all really, we all love a sunset bar aboard a P&O cruise ship. Located right at the aft end of the Promenade deck, it’s the perfect spot to refresh yourself with a cocktail served to your table at any time of the day after all that promenading. Alternatively head here in the evening for a delicious sundowner as you watch the sunset.

Let’s pop back inside and head down another level to the Parade Deck on deck 7.

Location: Mid Forward (Starboard) Category: Served with Entertainment Another favourite on P&O cruises fleet is Brodies bar which is the place to go to for a sociable pub atmosphere. Serving a selection of British and international bottled beers, ciders and real ales, head here if you like your crafted brews.

You’ll also find a great selection on tap and there are plenty of wines to choose from to. As usual there are a range of traditional nibbles and snacks available to accompany your drink. I’m sure there will be a pub quiz or two thrown in for good measure. Brodies is also a great venue attached to the casino.

The Glass House

Location: Midship Category: Contemporary Flavours If you’re more of a wine connoisseur then you might want to head to the Glass House instead. I have never heard anyone complain about the variety and quality the food they have been served in the Glass House. The small cover charge presents exceptional value for money and I fully recommend you visit this venue at least once on your cruise.

Choose a glass of one of the specially selected wines, hand-picked wine expert Olly Smith to accompany your delicious food and sit back in this prime spot in the Grand Atrium to watch daring aerial artists perform ‘Dream’; something we’ve never seen in any other Glass House across the whole P&O cruises fleet before.

Another exciting addition to the Glass House is the chance to experience an authentic tapas menu created by acclaimed chef José Pizarro which will be available on Iona’s cruises to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands.

Coral Restaurant

Location: Aft Category: Main Dining Room One of Iona’s four main dining rooms. All four main dining rooms aboard Iona are freedom dining offering fantastic flexibility for this formal dining option during your cruise. Expect wonderful wake views from this restaurant.

Another exciting addition to all the main restaurants is that on holidays to the fjords, passengers can enjoy authentic, home-style Norwegian dishes created by Marte Marie Forsberg.

And it seems formal night will have a bit of a makeover too. With “The Chef’s Table” on Celebration Nights (I’m guessing this is Iona’s rebranded formal night?)

On Celebration Nights we are instructed to don our finery for an exclusive evening of fine dining. Be prepared to experience a menu which celebrates British and regional cuisines created by Marco Pierre White and Eric Lanlard, and wine selected by Olly Smith. Sounds like a winning combination to me.

Deck 6 includes a yet another astounding array of places to sip, socialize and dine your heart out with not one, but three main dining rooms, and much more.

Pearl Restaurant

Location: Aft Category: Main Dining Room The Pearl restaurant is located at the aft and situated directly below the Coral restaurant on deck seven. Glancing at the deck plan, this promises to provide yet more breath-taking wake views.

Aqua Restaurant

Location: Mid Aft (Port) Category: Main Dining Room Another main dining room situated on the port side of the ship. From the deck plan, this seems to be a more intimate venue compared to the larger Pearl and Coral restaurants but nonetheless is a dining venue that comes with oodles of sea views.

It’s perfect place to dine if you’ve just enjoyed a cocktail in Anderson’s as it is conveniently located right next door. How thoughtful.

Opal Restaurant

Location: Mid Aft (Starboard) Category: Main Dining Room If you prefer your restaurant on the starboard side (and you’re perfectly entitled to) then head to the Opal restaurant. Perhaps opt for an early supper before heading to watch a film with the rest of the family, as Iona’s Ocean Studios is conveniently located right next door.

Anderson’s Bar

Location: Midship (Port) Category: Chic and Special Ok, so you know that Iona will have the first Gin distillery at sea, right? You know you have the chance to make your own gin on board too, right? If you don’t believe me, then head to Anderson’s Bar where you can see Columba (Iona’s gin still) in all its shiny, copper glory, distilling gin right before your very eyes.

If that wasn’t enough, to tempt you, Anderson’s Bar also boasts a menu of stylish tipples, in intimate surroundings. It’s the perfect spot to hide away with a perfect serve Marabelle Gin (exclusive to Iona) and a good book during the day or for predinner G&Ts. Or both.

The 710 Club

Location: Midship (Starboard) Category: Served with Entertainment The 710 club is Gary Barlow’s creative vision. If you’re after a sophisticated bar with a vintage vibe serving stylish cocktails, then make a beeline here.

The 710 Club promises low-lit ambiance and pure escapism which oozes a cool (and by all accounts a killer smoked cherry negroni). It’s a chance to immerse yourself in an intimate music bar billed at “the most exciting live music venue at sea”, with an eclectic range of performances, curated to appeal to British music lovers.

Location: Midship (Port) Category: Fresh and Informal If you would like stunning sea view with your latte or an endless blue horizon with your tea. Then head to Vistas. From the artist’s renderings released so far it’s very clear to sea (sorry) why it’s named Vistas.

On top of all that there’s more sweet treats from Eric Lanlard, pop-up performances and daring displays from aerial artists. Located in the very heart of the ship this is bound to be a buzzing location all day. Stop here for your morning coffee or relaxing pit stop during the day or even an invigorating after dinner coffee. You can also expect pop-up entertainment throughout the day and aerial circus performances during the evening.

Emerald Bar

Location: Midship (Starboard) Category: Contemporary Flavours The emerald bar promises “Glamour, good times and glorious exploratory cocktails”. As this bar is also located in the Grand Atrium, The Emerald Bar might also be the perfect place to experience ‘Dream’, an evening’s entertainment billed as an immersive experience blurring the line between magic and reality. A perfect accompaniment as you sip your expertly crafted daiquiri.

Limelight Club

Location: Mid Forward (Starboard) Category: Served with Entertainment It’s very pleasing to discover that this wonderful supper-club venue is also featured on Iona. If you’ve ever had the chance to sail on P&O Cruises Britannia and spent an evening in the Limelight club then you know that it’s good news that this firm favourite is also going to be part of the dining and entertainment experience onboard Iona.

After daytime dance classes have finished, The Limelight Club transforms into an evening venue just for adults. We’re promised wonderful entertainment and a unique dining experience comprised of a welcome drink and a themed multi-course menu served at intervals throughout the show.

When the performance is over, The Limelight Club transforms yet again into a lively late-night hotspot. What a versatile little place!

So there you have it, all the dining options, cafes and bars available on P&O Cruises Iona. With so many options, you may need to book more than a week on board.

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Steph is the founder of Cruise with Amber. She been cruising since 2005 and spent over 100 nights at sea. She is a Mum, Wife, Chartered Psychologist, business owner, exceptionally bad surfer, artist and cruise blogger. 

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Cruising Iona’s best restaurants

Andy Mossack spends two weeks eating aboard Iona to bring you his guide to cruising Iona’s best restaurants.

P&O Cruises’ Iona is a very big ship. Perhaps that’s something of an understatement, as at almost a quarter of a mile long, she is the biggest ship to ever fly the UK flag. That’s an impressive statistic from P&O Cruises. But perhaps more impressive are the logistics that ensure her 5,200 guests have an enjoyable cruise experience. And, of course, right at the centre of all that is the food. With thirty-three restaurants and bars, Iona has plenty of options, but in the real world, which ones are the most enjoyable? Well, I was about to find out.  In November, I joined Iona on her two-week cruise to the Canary Islands, Madeira, Lisbon, and Cadiz and tried them all. So, let’s find out which were the winners for me as I went cruising Iona’s best restaurants.

Freedom Dining Restaurants

Iona has four main freedom-dining restaurants. Pearl, Coral, Opal and Aqua. These are table service restaurants, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner and afternoon tea, and all share the same three-course menu (five courses on the two Celebration Nights with menus designed by Marco Pierre White). There is no set seating, so you can elect to eat on your own or share and you can access advance bookings for these via the onboard My Holiday app.

My view: I only ate dinner in the freedom dining restaurants simply because the choice of other daytime outlets was so wide. Sometimes the service was a little rushed, but all the teams were extremely helpful and highly organised. No problem with ordering extra dishes and sides, and I found asking my waiter to make sure the food was hot, ensured it was exactly that. The menus always had enough options to satisfy any palate.

On a particularly picky note, I would have preferred to see more fresh vegetables included in the main courses. The quality of the fare, while not reaching the heights of the speciality restaurants, was perfectly acceptable to me for a very pleasant dining experience. I found the only times available to me for dinner most days, were either too early or too late. My solution was to arrive at a time convenient to me and put my name down for a table if one wasn’t available. You’re given a handy mobile buzzer to take to a nearby bar, and mine normally buzzed within twenty minutes.  7/10

The Olive Grove

While not on the list as one of Iona’s speciality restaurants, The Olive Garden’s Mediterranean-inspired fare proved to be one of the ship’s most popular dining destinations. Most of the menu was included in the standard eating plan but there were a few dishes with a small supplement such as the seafood, chicken and chorizo paella, slow-cooked Moroccan lamb tagine, the kofta hanging kebab and small seafood platter (all £4.50). Other than these, the sharing plates, pizzas, pastas, salads, and grills were all fare game.

My View: I loved the ambience and the informality. The open pizza oven area was a lovely piece of kitchen theatre. The Greek mezze, Italian antipasti and Spanish croquettes, chorizo and cheese-sharing plates proved to be perfect appetizers. I was puzzled to find a side supplement of £1 for chips and another 50p for added parmesan cheese or truffle oil, considering chips were in plentiful supply all over the ship for free. 8/10

The Keel and Cow

This is P&O Cruises’ version of a trendy gastro pub, open for breakfast and all-day dining. It is essentially a big bar with tables, but the food on offer is excellent, particularly the dry-aged steaks, which proudly hang in the glass cold locker at the front of the open-plan kitchen. There are also excellent wine parings from Iona wine ambassador Olly Smith, who was onboard with chef/restaurateur José Pizarro during my cruise. Keel and Cow is about as hipster as you can get on Iona and the prices are very reasonable for the quality of fare.

My View: I really enjoyed dining here, particularly as they didn’t accept any reservations, so there was no struggle for tables. It was a relaxed place to sit, enjoy a drink, and then tuck into a good meal, so the term gastro pub is a perfect description. The steaks were outstanding, with the 42-day dry-aged 32 oz tomahawk with chunky chips, battered onion rings, portobello mushroom, roasted tomatoes, and iceberg wedge lettuce top of the pile at £32. The slow-cooked beef and ale pie was very popular at £6.50, but the jaw-dropper for me was the Prime Minister burger known locally as the ‘boss of burgers’. An 8 oz dry-aged prime beef patty with the kitchen sink thrown into it for £8.50. Plenty of options for non-carnivores too. 8/10

The Epicurean

Iona’s signature fine-dining restaurant and everything about The Epicurean is top-notch, from top to table. It is designed to be a culinary journey of discovery of fine British ingredients with all the theatre you would expect from a Michelin-esque experience. The supplement is from £28 pp and pre-booking is essential.

My View: You can tell The Epicurean is special because it’s tucked away at the very front of the ship next to the Crow’s Nest bar. Up here, even the carpets seem plusher. Yes, it is quite the culinary experience and I remember my waiter telling me “This is a gastronomic journey, so expect your dinner to last a minimum of two and a half hours.” Beautifully cooked and presented and worth splashing out on some fine wine to make it even more memorable.  9/10

A new Iona food offering, The Quays is a spacious food court with three cooked-to-order outlets open from noon to late; Hook Line and Sinker serving fish and chips and seafood, Fusion serving a few freshly prepared Asian specials, and Boardwalk Diner , if Americana fast food is your thing. Just around the corner, a salad and dessert buffet awaits with ready-plated dishes.

My View: This was a firm favourite for the lunchtime/early afternoon crowd with the fish and chips proving to be the most popular. Always a line there most days. I came here frequently as all the food was freshly prepared in open-plan kitchens. Top tip: I used to grab a big empty bowl from one of the outlets, go to the salad buffet and pour the ingredients of each small individual salad bowl into my big bowl. Voila, a fantastic salad lunch! 8/10

Something of a P&O Cruises fleet favourite with an almost legendary reputation, Sindhu specialises in a la carte Indian fine dining within a sumptuous and decadent interior of gold and brown more like a maharaja’s palace.

My View: With such a glowing reputation, I was really looking forward to trying out Sindhu, but for me, it didn’t really live up to the billing. I found all my dishes lacking any distinct or memorable flavours, and I tried most of the signatures including hand-dived scallops and coconut prawn masala. My Kolhapuri Gosht – beef tenderloin, curried mash, garlic spinach purée, bhuna masala sauce, just didn’t work at all. 4/10

The Beach House

Come nightfall, a section of the Horizon buffet restaurant is transformed into a Caribbean/South American-style table service restaurant with just a few supplement dishes. Very informal with real comfort food classics. There are also sizzler and lava stone dishes too. Once a week during black tie Celebration Nights, it becomes the Chef’s Table with an extended five-course menu designed by Marco Pierre White also offered across the other restaurants.

My View: Bit of a mixed bad. I thought the sizzler and lava stone dishes were outstanding, as was the sharing slow-cooked leg of lamb (£7.95 supplement). The sizzling tiger prawns (no supplement), and the outrageously good 8 oz lava stone-cooked filet steak (£3.95 supplement) were the standouts. Typically, I’m not a fan of TexMex, so found the cheesy nachos disappointingly soggy and the hanging kebab not worth the £5.95 supplement. The Celebration Night dinner was excellent, particularly Marco’s beef wellington and New England lobster mornay. 7/10

The Glass House

Wine expert Olly Smith and tapas king José Pizarro have curated this bijou-style wine bar which pairs some excellent wines with some very tasty bites. The menu varies depending on which cruise you might be on and is priced a la carte.

My View : I was lucky to find both fine gentlemen on the Canary Island cruise, and they were highly entertaining hosts. José provided a succulent tapas menu including some knockout freshly sliced Iberian jambon. At the same time, Olly’s wine selections were spot on. Food prices from £2.75, with wines from £5.20. 9/10

Horizon Buffet

Iona’s huge self-service buffet restaurant offers all-day dining with a huge array of food options from full English breakfasts to Sunday roasts and everything else in between. There are daily specials including authentic curries, salads, and cheeses.

My View:   Horizon’s food options are really quite something. Somehow, it manages to morph itself into breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner without missing a beat. I found out early on that I could ask for particular fruits like banana or kiwi or get the toasting server to toast some artisan bread instead of the normal white or brown. Nothing is too much trouble. I’m picky about my breakfast eggs and was happy to wait for a freshly cooked one.  On nice days you can take your food and eat al fresco . 7/10

Images of Beef wellington and Sindhu chicken dish (C) Andy Mossack All other images (C) P&O Cruises.

Tell me more about cruising Iona’s best restaurants

P&O Cruises 14-night cruise on Iona to Spain and Portugal costs from £669pp for an inside cabin, departing from Southampton on March 4, 2023.

P&O Cruises 14-night cruise on Iona to Spain and Portugal costs from £899pp for an inside cabin, departing from Southampton on September 23, 2023.

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I visited the Guy Fieri restaurant that's on every Carnival cruise, and it was a far cry from an average fast-food joint

• I tried Guy's Burger Joint, a  Guy Fieri -created restaurant that's on all Carnival cruise ships.
• The menu has five different burgers and a wide array of toppings and sauces.
• My favorite burger had two patties — one was made of beef and the other of bacon.

Guy Fieri has a burger restaurant on every Carnival Cruise Line ship, and I decided to try it.

Carnival Cruise Line is known for its budget-friendly voyages and impressive lido-deck dining options, one of which is Guy's Burger Joint. 

The restaurant opened in 2011 as a partnership between the cruise line and Guy Fieri , a chef and Food Network personality. Now, it's a staple on every Carnival Cruise Line ship and will also be on the upcoming addition to the fleet: the Carnival Jubilee. 

When I sailed on the Carnival Elation , I decided to try the " roadside burger shack " for myself. Since Guy's Burger Joint is included in the price of the cruise, I stood in line for burgers and fries almost every day of our four-night cruise. 

We didn't need a reservation but still made sure to check the operating hours on the Carnival HUB app ahead of time. On the Elation, Guy's Burger Joint was open from noon until 6 p.m.

The menu lists five burgers, and there's a language key to decode Fieri's iconic lingo.

The restaurant is described as a "roadside burger shack," and it definitely felt like one.

The road signs were the first thing I noticed since they made the restaurant look like it actually sat along the iconic US Route 66. The red tile and dark wood paneling also played into the roadside diner theme without being too over-the-top.

The Guy's Burger Joint menu only has five burger options , but they encapsulate everything a person might want, from a plain burger to a loaded chili cheeseburger.

When I perused the menu, I noticed a lot of abbreviations. Luckily, there was a key underneath to help. It explained that "LTOP" stands for "lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickle," and "SMC" is short for "super melty cheese."

The line at Guy's Burger Joint moved quickly, and it never took me more than five minutes to reach the front. 

I ordered one of every burger so I could try all of them.

When I first boarded the ship, I ordered one of every burger on the menu, along with a side of fries, to test out the menu.

That way, I could decide which burger would be my go-to selection for the rest of the weekend.

The sauce bar fell short of my expectations.

After receiving my burgers on a metal tray with Guy's Burger Joint-themed parchment paper, I headed to the sauce bar. 

Because the sauce selection at Fieri's Chicken Guy restaurant in Orlando was so impressive, I was slightly disappointed by the lack of options at Guy's Burger Joint. 

There were only five sauces: ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, ranch, and chipotle mayo. 

I'm not a big fan of putting traditional condiments , like ketchup or mustard, on my burgers or fries, but the chipotle mayo always made its way onto my tray. It was creamy and spicy, making it a perfect topping for my burger and a delicious dip for my fries. 

From grilled peppers to dill pickle chips, there were plenty of burger toppings to choose from.

I loved the selection of hot burger toppings , which included grilled peppers, onions, and chili. 

The cold options — pickled peppers, dill pickle chips, sliced white onions, sliced tomatoes, and shredded iceberg lettuce — were a little less inspired but still solid.

My favorite burger had two patties, and one of them was made of bacon.

After trying the entire menu, I landed on the Pig Patty as my absolute favorite. It had two patties stacked on top of each other — one was a standard smashed patty with crispy edges and a cheese topping, and the other was made out of bacon .  

The Pig Patty was indulgent and slightly greasy, two things I look for in a burger. It had so much flavor that I didn't use any extra toppings or sauces.

Fieri's signature condiment, Donkey Sauce, was slathered all over the Straight Up burger.

I was excited to try the Straight Up burger, which had the same toasted bun and smashed burger patty as the Pig Patty. 

The toppings were supposed to include cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, and a generous slathering of Donkey Sauce (Fieri's signature garlic aioli). 

When I got the Straight Up burger, it didn't have lettuce, tomatoes, or pickles, but it didn't really need them. The Donkey Sauce and cheese added plenty of flavor.

The Plain Jane burger is a safe, simple option.

The Plain Jane, a grilled patty on a bun , was the item I heard ordered most frequently in line. I got mine with cheese, but it can also be ordered with just a patty as well. 

It was a great option for kids who don't want a lot of extra dressing on their burgers. Personally, I wanted a bit more flavor, so I dipped the Plain Jane into some chipotle mayo.

The Ringer was topped with barbecue sauce and an onion ring.

The Ringer was dressed up with cheese, a crispy fried onion ring, and Fieri's bourbon-and-brown-sugar barbecue sauce, which was a bit spicy.

All of the sauces made the burger a little messy, but it was nothing a napkin couldn't fix.

The one bad thing about the Ringer was that the onion ring got soggy fairly quickly. Next time I order it, I'll ask for a few onion rings on the side and eat them along with the burger.

The Chilius Maximus was an ideal order for chili lovers.

The Chilius Maximus is loaded with melted cheese, chili, an onion ring, and Donkey Sauce.

I don't like chili, so I knew this burger would be my least favorite. So, I tapped on my dad, who loves chili burgers, to give me his honest opinion.

He said the chili wasn't too spicy, and its warm notes paired well with the garlicky Donkey Sauce. But again, the onion ring did lose its crunch after sitting on top of the moist patty.

The fries were such a hit that I ordered a serving every time I went to Guy's Burger Joint.

Nothing goes better with burgers than hot fries, so I got some every time I ate at Guy's Burger Joint. 

Even though the menu said the fries were hand-cut, they tasted more like frozen fries — but that's completely fine by me. They stayed crisp for a long time. 

They were tossed in a spice blend that tasted like a mix of salt, paprika, and possibly garlic powder. I tried to get the chef to share the recipe but had no luck.

Beyond tasting delicious on their own, the fries were a perfect vehicle to get more of my favorite chipotle-mayo sauce into my mouth.

In the span of my four-day cruise, I ate around 10 burgers.

The delicious burgers at Fieri's restaurant were a far cry from an average fast-food meal . I also loved eating at Guy's Burger Joint because it felt like stepping into Fieri's popular Food Network show " Diner's, Drive-Ins, and Dives ." 

Whenever I walked by the restaurant, there were at least three or four people waiting in line. Clearly, it resonated with my fellow cruise-goers as well.

Guy's Burger Joint might not be the fanciest restaurant on the Carnival ships, but in my opinion, it's definitely the most flavorsome.

This story was originally published on January 29, 2023, and most recently updated on May 17, 2024.

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The Best Cruise Restaurants Onboard Mariner Of The Seas

Where to find the best cruise food on this top-rated voyager class cruise ship..

By Amanda Mesa | Published on May 10, 2024

As a former food critic, dining plays a big role in every aspect of my life — especially when it comes to vacations. My family teases me about the fact that when it comes to planning cruise getaways, the ship’s food scene impacts my decision-making as much as onboard attractions or the ports of call on the itinerary. For many years, I’ve counted Mariner of the Seas among my favorite cruise ships.

For starters, it’s a smaller ship and therefore offers the more intimate atmosphere that I prefer over larger cruise ships. But above all, the food scene onboard this Voyager Class stunner is unparalleled. It’s home to some of my favorite cruise restaurants, including Royal Caribbean classics like Izumi and Chef’s Table. It also boasts one of my all-time favorite cruise restaurants, Playmakers SM  Bar & Arcade. 

That’s in addition to casual, complimentary cruise dining at Windjammer, Dog House and Café Promenade, as well as elevated, multi-course dinners at the main dining room. Without a doubt, I’ve enjoyed some of the best cruise food ever when sailing on Mariner of the Seas. Here’s a cheat sheet to the top dining options that await onboard.

1. Chops Grille℠

2. Izumi Hibachi & Sushi

3. Jamie’s Italian By Jamie Oliver

4. Playmakers Sports Bar & Arcade

5. Chef’s Table

6. Café Promenade

7. Dog House

8. Windjammer

9. Main Dining Room

PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

STARTING FROM 

sail ON THE AMPLIFIED MARINER OF THE SEAS

FAMILY GETAWAY

WESTERN CARIBBEAN

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Icon of the seas: the best dining, amenities and more on royal caribbean's new ship.

This family-friendly megaship features plenty of activities, entertainment and restaurants.

Icon of the Seas

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Key Takeaways

• Icon of the Seas is the largest cruise ship in the world, with 18 passenger-accessible decks, eight different neighborhoods and 2,805 staterooms.
• Think of Icon of the Seas as an all-in-one adventure vacation contained on a ship. Young families and energetic travelers will enjoy it most.
• Itineraries originate from Miami , sail to destinations around the Caribbean and include a stop at Royal Caribbean's private island , Perfect Day at CocoCay.

If you have any degree of interest in traveling or cruising, chances are you've heard the buzz around Icon of the Seas. Another record-breaking ship by Royal Caribbean International , Icon of the Seas debuted on Jan. 27, 2024, as the largest cruise ship in the world. It is epic in every sense, featuring 18 cruiser-accessible decks and stretching 1,196 feet from bow to stern.

With greatest-of-all-time soccer player Lionel Messi as the ship's godfather, the Icon of the Seas is truly iconic. Messi brought the entire Inter Miami team along for the opening ceremony and the big reveal of the team's new Royal Caribbean-sponsored jerseys. I was fortunate enough to attend this star-studded ceremony as part of the press preview sailing in the days leading up to the ship's grand debut to the public. It was everything I thought it would be and more, and nobody could have been more appropriate than Messi to send this ship on her maiden voyage.

Boarding a ship of this size can seem overwhelming, but not when you understand the layout. Icon of the Seas is broken up into eight distinct neighborhoods: AquaDome, Central Park, Thrill Island, Chill Island, Royal Promenade, The Hideaway, Suite Neighborhood and Surfside, a neighborhood built for young families looking for nonstop fun and kid-approved eats and treats.

In addition to these public areas, there are 2,805 staterooms spread across 12 decks. Icon of the Seas' capacity maxes out at 7,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members, but with the plethora of public spaces and variety of things to do and see, you can choose your own adventure without encountering more crowds than you want to.

Find your perfect cruise

Skye Sherman

Icon of the Seas itinerary

During its inaugural 2024-2025 cruising season, Icon of the Seas offers seven-night eastern or western Caribbean adventures from Miami, stopping at a variety of tropical destinations. All sailings include a stop at Royal Caribbean's award-winning private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, in the Bahamas . Other destinations include Basseterre, St. Kitts & Nevis ; Roatan, Honduras; and Cozumel, Mexico .

During the 2025-2026 cruising season, new destinations will include Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic ; San Juan, Puerto Rico ; Labadee, Haiti; Costa Maya, Mexico; and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (part of the U.S. Virgin Islands ). All sailings will originate from Miami.

No matter your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you'll visit beautiful places – but you can expect to feel torn about spending any time off the ship, because it's just that jampacked with things to do.

Who should sail on Icon of the Seas?

Icon of the Seas appeals not so much to a demographic as to a psychographic; you're going to need to be someone who likes to live life in all caps. Royal Caribbean set out to create "the world's best vacation" contained on a ship, so Icon of the Seas is for anyone who would enjoy the combination of a beach trip, a resort stay, a water park adventure and island-hopping.

Fun-loving travelers and families with kids of varying ages will do best on this ship; it feels a little bit like Disney World with over-the-top everything and a truly massive sprawl. Older travelers who prefer a more quiet, refined experience may want to opt for a less kid-friendly ship. Still, even couples without children will find plenty of fun adult-friendly things to do and romantic places to tuck in.

The Royal Promenade can be quite loud and buzzy, but simply relocating to another onboard neighborhood can completely shift the vibe. Also, keep in mind that the ship really is huge, and walking from end to end can be a hike, so those with limited mobility or endurance might want to look into a smaller ship.

Icon of the Seas prices are high in its opening season, but cruisers with big dreams and small budgets can expect rates to drop by the time the next ship in the series debuts.

The stateroom

With a ship this overstimulating, it's imperative that your stateroom is a haven. Luckily, Icon of the Seas offers peaceful rooms, many of which feature ocean or Central Park neighborhood views. Cruise ship accommodations are stereotypically compact – even cramped – but the floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in Icon of the Seas' cabins (with the exception of the windowless interior rooms) lend an airy, open feel. The cabin layouts are also optimized to provide the maximum amount of storage, floor space and comfort.

Stateroom decor is mildly nautical- and tropical-themed, with calming hues that mimic the scenery outside your window (think blues, beiges and whites). High-tech elements include smart TVs, LED mirrors and the ability to control many aspects of your room from an app.

My husband and I stayed in an Ocean View Large Balcony Stateroom, a 204-square-foot refuge from the hustle and bustle of the ship (the balcony adds another 65 to 70 square feet). This room type can sleep up to four people with a sofa bed for one or two; the room also features twin beds that convert to a king bed for couples.

My husband is 6 feet, 3 inches tall, and we were comfortable in our room, even though our quarters included a large bed, a bathroom, a sofa and a desk. We loved sitting on our private balcony and watching the deep blues of the Atlantic Ocean flow by.

If money is no object, the Ultimate Family Townhouse – an over-the-top eight-guest, three-story pad with a private whirlpool on the balcony, three bathrooms, a slide that connects the second and main levels, an in-suite cinema, a dining room and a kitchenette – looks epic. But keep in mind, it costs nearly $100,000 for the week.

The Sunset Corner Suites (about one-fifth of the cost of the Ultimate Family Townhouse, but still expensive) are also pretty sweet, with a wraparound balcony and a bed facing the sea.

Luckily, not all rooms break the bank; with four main stateroom categories (suite, balcony, ocean view and inside) and 28 subcategories, there's something for everyone.

Best amenities on Icon of the Seas

It's almost impossible to run out of things to do aboard Icon of the Seas.

For thrill-seekers, the largest water park at sea – Category 6 – features the Frightening Bolt (the tallest waterslide on a ship) and the Pressure Drop (the first open freefall waterslide on a cruise vessel).

If you've tired of the seven swimming pools, six waterslides, laser tag, mini-golf, rock climbing wall, escape room, sports courts, outdoor decks, theater, spa and all-day programming, simply take a stroll down the Royal Promenade for Las Vegas -style people-watching. The Royal Promenade has 15 restaurants, bars and lounges, as well as a Starbucks that seems to have a line no matter what time you go. The neighborhood feels a bit like a shopping mall … if a shopping mall had floor-to-ceiling ocean views made possible by the world's largest kinetic art sculpture.

The Pearl, a feat of engineering, is one of the most unique aspects of the ship's design. This art piece is actually a load-bearing structure supporting three decks, but it looks and feels like an interactive art experience designed solely for the enjoyment of guests. The multisensory immersive structure has 3,000 kinetic panels and moody ever-changing lighting. It is one of the first things guests will see when they walk on board, as it stretches from the Royal Promenade up to Central Park.

My husband and I spent most of our time at the FlowRider surf simulator – his favorite amenity – but we made sure to leave time for Taylor Swift trivia at Spotlight Karaoke and the superhuman stunts of the Aqua Theater show, a must on any Icon of the Seas voyage. The ship even has a massive ice arena called Absolute Zero for ice skating (the 20-minute sessions are complimentary) and impressive shows.

We also loved lounging in The Overlook Bar & Pods, an area at the very front of the ship (behind the AquaDome) that features two levels of floor-to-ceiling wraparound windows. It felt airy and open, which can't be said about many cruise ship interiors.

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Best dining venues on Icon of the Seas

There are more dining options aboard Icon of the Seas than you can fit in on a seven-night cruise – but you can give it the old college try. Thirteen of the dining venues are complimentary, while 14 are specialty restaurants (which cost extra; fees vary). There are also 18 bars and lounges.

The best meal we experienced on the ship was at the Chops Grille specialty eatery. When we spotted Royal Caribbean CEO Jason Liberty and a group of bigwigs at a table next to us, we knew we were in the right place. We loved sitting outside and enjoying the breezes of Central Park while we chowed down, but you can eat indoors for an elegant steakhouse experience and a view of the open kitchen and butcher's display, which shows off specialty cuts like high-grade wagyu and bone-in tomahawks.

While I'd never turn down a swanky steak dinner, grabbing quick poolside bites at El Loco Fresh and indulging in some food hall-style grazing at AquaDome Market were equally enjoyable. We also had no complaints eating several meals at Windjammer, the classic complimentary cruise ship buffet.

Even though we don't have children, we stopped into Surfside Bites for a very kid-friendly meal, complete with soft serve ice cream cones from Sprinkles (because no cruise is complete without soft serve). We didn't try anything from the open-air, lemonade stand-inspired Lemon Post bar, but its menu of cocktails and mocktails looked delicious.

And since you're on vacation, be sure to check out the milkshake bar Desserted, where the sugary creations are as photo-worthy as they are decadent. They're worth the upcharge.

Best excursions on Icon of the Seas

Depending on what's on your Icon of the Seas itinerary, you may be able to book activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, tropical jungle adventures, visits to Mayan ruins, volcano hikes, rainforest zip lining, relaxing beach days or cultural immersion tours.

Note that Royal Caribbean features the same options on many of its other Caribbean cruises; none of the excursions on offer are exclusive to Icon of the Seas.

Because our press preview sailing only visited Perfect Day at CocoCay, we did not experience any of the shore excursions. Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas was plenty of fun, even though we didn't plan anything in advance.

If we had made plans, we would have liked to check out the Up, Up and Away tethered hot air balloon, which wasn't running that day, and the overwater cabanas at Coco Beach Club, which were all booked. Thrill Waterpark (which features the tallest waterslide in North America), Oasis Lagoon (the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean) and the adults-only Hideaway Beach are other highlights of Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Overall impressions of Icon of the Seas

Royal Caribbean seems to be focused on superlatives. It has the biggest, best, tallest, largest and most of everything – especially when it comes to Icon of the Seas. If you like jampacked, adventurous vacations that squeeze a lot of adventure and relaxation into one memorable week, Icon of the Seas is probably for you.

While I love seeing Royal Caribbean push the limits of what cruises can be, the ship may almost be too big for some. It's an all-out Vegas-esque vessel that feels more like a floating city; you will probably forget (more than once) that you're not on dry land.

That's not necessarily a bad thing – if Icon of the Seas looks fun to you, it probably will be – but my husband and I tend to gravitate more toward authentic, immersive, on-the-ground cultural experiences when we travel. While Icon of the Seas is a lot of things, it's not that. We had a fantastic time and have already started planning a future Royal Caribbean cruise with a group of friends and family, but we also sympathize with the anticruisers of the world. Vacationing does not a traveler make.

Still, the shows are entertaining, the service is attentive, the music is jamming, and the architecture and design are incredibly impressive. I have no real complaints and suspect that most cruisers will have the time of their lives on Icon of the Seas – exactly as the minds at Royal Caribbean envisioned when they dreamed up this iconic ship.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Skye Sherman has been cruising since childhood, when her parents took her on her first cruise through the Caribbean. She has sailed various ocean cruise lines, gone off the grid for a six-day riverboat expedition deep into the Amazon River and even planned a European river cruise with 48 of her closest family and friends. She's a fourth-generation Floridian and hopes to visit every country in the world during her lifetime. She covers travel and lifestyle topics for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival
• The Largest Cruise Ships in the World
• The Best New Cruise Ships
• The Best Cruise Insurance

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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