Iona – the largest ship every built for the UK market – had been scheduled to begin sailing in May before the coronavirus pandemic led to a global shutdown of cruise operations and shipbuilding.

In an update issued on Tuesday (4 August), P&O confirmed Iona would now join its fleet in late summer after discussions with German shipyard Meyer Werft.

Iona’s as-yet-unnamed sister ship will be delivered in December 2022 with itineraries going on sale in spring next year.

P&O president, Paul Ludlow, said: “Whilst our operations as currently paused, we are delighted that we have more clarity on the arrival of these two new ships.

“The final outfitting of Iona is almost complete and is looking stunning and we will take delivery of her before the autumn. We also now know that her sister ship will join the fleet at the end of 2022. 

“Both ships are eagerly anticipated by our guests and we are seeing strong demand for the future. The space on these two ships will allow for extraordinary experiences; visual entertainment displays; new dining concepts and many new areas for relaxation and indulgence.”