What is Ionafest 2020 and how to join the fun?
Sadly this event had to be cancelled Due to the Covid-19 Pandemic. Instead, Iona is to be named in a virtual ceremony in May 2021.
What is Ionafest 2020?
Ionafest 2020 is a special celebratory festival event onboard P&O Cruises new ship, Iona - hence the catchy name - combining a musical extravaganza with Iona’s Naming Celebration.
Usually a new ship’s naming ceremony is an invitation-only event for media/press representatives and VIPs. Well guess what? P&O Cruises have recognised that YOU are their VIPs, and have planned this fabulous event which is open to all.
Ionafest 2020 looks set to be a festival at sea like no other, with a host of well-known musical artists, street food and pop-up bars.
When and Where is Ionafest Being Held?
P&O Cruises newest ship, Iona. Image Credit: P&O Cruises
Ionafest 2020 is a week-long celebration being held between 4-11 July 2020 which will be held onboard P&O Cruises new flagship, Iona - the newest and largest ship in their fleet.
The festival will be held against the backdrop of the stunning Norwegian Fjords, sailing from Iona’s home port of Southampton.
Itinerary
Iona will sail from Southampton towards Olden, cruise through Innvikfjorden and Nordfjord, visit Hellesylt, Geiranger, sail through Geirangerfjord, Sunnylvsfjorden and Storfjorden, with a final stop in Bergen before heading back to Southampton.
What Can I Expect at Ionafest 2020?
Firstly, you won’t face a sea of tents - you will enjoy your festival in luxury, with the bonus of the fabulous scenery of the Norwegian Fjords.
As it’s the naming celebration for Iona, you will get to experience the iconic “bottle smash” - a long-held maritime tradition of a bottle of champagne being smashed over the bow by the ship’s godmother (still to be announced for Iona).
In addition to the many restaurants and bars on Iona, for this special event there will also be pop-up street food outlets and bars.
Gary Barlow will perform at Ionafest 2020. Image Credit: P&O Cruises
There will be many performances by big-named musical artists being headlined by the inimitable Gary Barlow, P&O Cruises New Brand Ambassador. (Find our more in my related post here).
Clean Bandit will perform at Ionafest 2020. Image Credit: P&O Cruises
Other confirmed artists include the fabulous Clean Bandit; renowned DJ Trevor Nelson, presenter Jo Wiley; comedian and Strictly Come Dancing favourite, Chris Ramsey; radio DJ and presenter Sara Cox; and Alex James of Blur fame.
Comedian Chris Ramsey will perform at Ionafest 2020. Image Credit: P&O Cruises
What’s more, all acts and Ionafest events are included in the price for Ionafest 2020! However as many events are taking place simultaneously across the entire ship, you’ll need to decide which performances and celebrations you wish to attend. Entry will be on a first-come, first-served basis. But don’t worry, many will be screened on deck so you won’t miss out.
How Much Will Ionafest Cost?
Prices starting from £1,299pp. This is P&O Cruises Select Price based on two adults sharing the lowest grade of Inside cabin available on Iona cruise G010 and is subject to availability.
Remember this price is for a full-board one week cruise and includes entry to all special events and performances (subject to availability on a first-come, first-served basis).
For full details and to book visit https://www.pocruises.com/ionafest