Iona Cruise To Arrive Early In Southampton: A Smooth End To A Stunning Voyage

Published on December 6, 2025

Iona, the flagship of P&O Cruises, will arrive in Southampton early this weekend following weather-related changes to its schedule. The ship, currently on a 14-night cruise to Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, was originally set to return on Saturday morning. It will now dock on Friday afternoon to ensure a safer and smoother arrival.

Unfavorable Weather Conditions Prompt Change in Arrival

Captain Martin Allen informed guests on board that the early arrival was due to weather forecasts predicting poor conditions for Saturday morning in Southampton. He noted that this adjustment was needed to avoid a weather system moving across the UK that could have made docking uncomfortable.

While the Iona will dock on Friday, the cruise will officially end on Saturday morning. Passengers will not be able to leave the ship on Friday due to immigration rules. They must wait until Saturday to go through customs. This policy is in place to ensure a smooth disembarkation when it takes place.

Change in Itinerary: Lisbon Visit Cancelled

In addition to the early arrival, Iona’s itinerary was disrupted by a strike in Lisbon. The scheduled stop on Wednesday, December 3, was canceled because port workers were on strike in the Portuguese city. The strike made docking impossible, and since no alternative ports were available, the ship remained at sea for the day. Captain Allen expressed regret about this change but stated that it was out of their control.

The cancellation of the Lisbon stop added to the challenges faced during the cruise. However, the ship had already visited popular spots in Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands, including La Coruña, Cádiz, and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria. These locations are renowned for their rich culture, historic sites, and beautiful landscapes, providing guests with a memorable experience despite the itinerary changes.

Early Arrival Ensures Comfort for Guests

The choice to bring the Iona into Southampton early shows P&O Cruises’ commitment to the safety and comfort of its passengers. The captain assured guests that their well-being was a top priority in making this decision. Docking earlier allows the ship to avoid the worst weather, ensuring a comfortable and safe last leg of the journey.

While the schedule changes might have altered some aspects of the cruise, passengers can still enjoy their time on board. Captain Allen hopes that guests understand the reasons for the changes and will continue to enjoy the last days of their voyage. The crew is focused on making sure all passengers have a pleasant and safe end to their cruise.

Iona’s Journey: A Scenic Voyage Across Europe and the Canary Islands

The Iona, an LNG-powered cruise ship, has been taking passengers on a beautiful journey through Spain, Portugal, and the Canary Islands. After leaving Southampton on November 22, 2025, the ship made several stops at captivating locations, allowing guests to experience the history and culture of these diverse places. The Canary Islands, with their volcanic landscapes and warm weather, along with cities like Cádiz and La Coruña, are highlights of this trip.

Iona’s early arrival in Southampton serves as a reminder that travel can be unpredictable, especially in winter when the weather can impact schedules. Still, P&O Cruises has shown its flexibility and dedication to the safety and satisfaction of its guests.

Conclusion: A Memorable Voyage Despite Challenges

Despite the itinerary changes, passengers on Iona will enjoy the final leg of their journey in comfort. The early arrival in Southampton, though driven by weather conditions, will make for a smooth end to an unforgettable cruise. While some may feel disappointed by the cancellation of the Lisbon visit and the schedule change, the overall experience reflects the lasting appeal of cruising in Europe and the Canary Islands.