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Iona Deluxe Balcony Cabins

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Listing of Iona Deluxe Balcony stateroom and cabins that we have ACTUAL pictures and/or videos of. Cruisedeckplans.com features links to actual stateroom and cabin pictures and videos.

The following is a listing of all the cabins we have pictures or videos for on this ship and also on the sister ships. The cabins on sister ships are usually similar but that is not always the case. Click on any cabin number link to view pictures and/or videos. Youtube column will say "YouTube" if there is a video for that cabin. You can filter the results using the search box. You can also sort by column headings.

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Iona cabins and suites

Iona staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Iona cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by P&O UK (P&O Cruises) en-suite amenities and services.

The Iona cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

2-Room Sky Suite

B4 category Suite (number 10736 / on Deck 10) is handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

Iona 2-Room Sky Suite photo

Family Seaview Suite

Conservatory mini suite, layout (floor plan).

Iona Conservatory Mini Suite photo

Deluxe Balcony Cabin

EA category Deluxe Balcony cabins numbers 10423-10427-10433-10437 / all on Deck 10) are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

Iona Deluxe Balcony Cabin photo

Standard Balcony Cabin

The following numbers Standard Balcony cabins are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

  • category GC (8330-8332, 15301-15302-15303-15304-15305-15306-15307-15308)
  • category GA (11514-11516-11518-11520-12514-12516-12518-12520)
  • category GB (12622-12623-12624-12625-12626-12627-12628-12629)

Iona Standard Balcony Cabin photo

Smaller Balcony Cabin

Iona Smaller Balcony Cabin photo

Seaview Cabin

LB category Seaview cabins numbers 4522-4528-4534-4538 / all on Deck 4) are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

Iona Seaview Cabin photo

Larger Inside Cabin

Iona Larger Inside Cabin photo

Standard Inside Cabin

The following numbers Standard Interior cabins are handicap/wheelchair-accessible.

  • category PC (8327-8331-9326-9327-9330-9331-15322-15323-15326-15327-16326-16327-16330-16331)
  • category PF (9222-9223-9228-9229)
  • category PB (10327-10331)

Iona Standard Inside Cabin photo

Studio Single Cabin

Iona Studio Single Cabin photo

Iona cabins review

PO Iona cruise ship cabins are 4 main types (suite, balcony, sea view/oceanview/outside, interior, single), divided into 12 categories and 32 grades. The liner has a total of 2614 passenger staterooms and max capacity 6264 (5204 lower berths).

Staterooms include 121 Suites, 1496 Balcony, 174 Oceanviews/Seaviews, 819 Interior cabins. P&O Iona has a total of 32 studios (single-occupancy cabins) and 55 wheelchair-accessible/handicap cabins (for disabled passengers). Most cabins are sized between 135-170 ft2 (13-16 m2).

Excepting the Suites, all cabin balconies are very small - sized just 20 ft2 (2 m2). Cabin balconies in the forward section can be overlooked by the Navigation Bridge (Wheelhouse).

The boat has 8 laundrettes (self-service laundry rooms for passengers) located midship on decks 4-5-9-10-11-12-14-15.

2-Room Sky Suites are located either aft and forward and designed as boutique-hotel rooms. They consist of interconnecting rooms whose doors can be fully opened to create a larger lounge space. The furniture is contemporary and comfort and includes a sofa, ottoman chairs, lounge chairs, soft furnishings and accessories (cushions, premium twill throws, LED lighting/ceiling and wall-mounted lamps). These Suites (categories B4-B5-B6) have spacious bathrooms with double sink vanities, black marble tops, white marble walls and floors, whirlpool bathtubs. All suites feature separate lounge-bedroom areas, designated dressing areas, large step-out balconies and exclusive services (personal Butler, in-cabin dining, priority services).

Conservatory Mini-Suite is a new cabin concept featuring a separate, conservatory-style room designed as cabin extension. Located between the cabin and the balcony, this separate room is furnished with an L-shaped sofa to create a distinctive lounge space. Via sliding glass-doors, this "small room" can be closed off for more privacy (parties, celebrations, conversations). Via other glass-doors (bi-folds), the room can be opened out fully onto the cabin's step-out balcony, providing a cool and shaded indoor space for relaxation.

Balcony staterooms are in 3 main categories (Deluxe, Standard, Smaller) plus Single Balcony. Many are with interconnecting doors, making them a perfect choice for families and small groups. Balcony cabins also allow outdoor dining via cruise ship's Room Service menu.

For larger families and groups, balcony cabins are fitted with built-in bunks (fold-out, pull-down beds). On decks 10-11-12-14-15 there are forward-facing cabins with larger (steel-fronted) balconies overlooking the ship's bow. Due to their location and larger-sized verandas, these staterooms (categories EE-Deluxe, GE-Standard) are among the premium cabin grades. Single Balcony cabins (category QZ) are located aft on decks 9-11-14. They are smaller-sized double cabins but can be booked without a single supplement.

P&O UK's Iona liner has interior staterooms on all cabin decks. Single Inside cabins (category SZ) are standard-sized double cabins but can be booked by solo travelling passengers without paying a single supplement.

All staterooms have Queen-size beds (convertible to two twins/single beds), bedside cabinets, wall-mounted reading lamps, seating area (sofabed/2-seater couch with a modern dining-coffee table), mirrored vanity table/writing desk with chair, mirrored wardrobe (large closet with sliding doors, hangers, drawers, electronic safe box), direct-dial phone, smart HDTV (infotainment system, Internet, on-demand-movies, Room Service ordering, booking/reservations), hairdryer, round-shaped (porthole-like) mirrors for decoration, en suite bathroom (WC-toilet, single-sink vanity, shower).

All pull-down bunk beds are accessible via a ladder. All cabin balconies are furnished with 2 deck chairs and a small table. All cabin bathrooms are with shower-WC configurations. 2-Room Suites (categories B4, B5, B6) additionally have bathtubs. All Suites receive bathrobes and slippers.

Iona cabin and suite plans are property of P&O UK (P&O Cruises) . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

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Iona Deck Plans & Reviews

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

Activities & entertainment

  • Crows Nest _ Observation Lounge
  • Cooking Demonstrations
  • Dance Classes
  • Splash Zone
  • Whirlpools (18)
  • Hydrotherapy Pool *
  • Oasis Spa *
  • Thermal Suite *
  • Late_Night Activities
  • Fitness Classes
  • Jogging Track
  • Organized Activities and Games
  • Sports Court
  • The Retreat *
  • Art Gallery *
  • The Avenue Shopping *
  • The Photo Hub *
  • Ivory Suite
  • The Reef _ Kids Club
  • Scene _ Teens Club
  • Shore Experiences *
  • Loyalty and Cruise Sales *
  • Self_Service Laundry *
  • Medical Center
  • Headliners Theatre
  • Nightly Live Music
  • Ocean Studios
  • The Club House
  • The Limelight Club
  • The 710 Club
  • Enrichment Lectures
  • Aqua Restaurant - Main
  • Coral Restaurant - Main
  • Opal Restaurant - Main
  • Pearl Restaurant - Main
  • Vistas Cafe Bar - Coffee Bar *
  • Emerald Bar - Atrium Bar *
  • Brodies - Pub *
  • Sindhu - British-Indian *
  • Sindhu Bar - British-Indian Bar *
  • Horizon Restaurant - Buffet
  • The Beach House - Steakhouse *
  • Andersons Bar - Cocktail Bar *
  • Epicurean - Gourmet *
  • The Olive Grove - Mediterranean *
  • Crystal Bar - Pool Bar *
  • Beachcomber Bar - Pool Bar *
  • Infinity Bar - Pool Bar *
  • Laguna Bar and Sundaes - Pool Bar *
  • Sky Bar - Pool Bar *
  • Sunset Bar - Pool Bar *
  • The Keel and Cow - Gastropub *
  • Panorama Bar - Pool Bar *
  • The Glass House - Wine Bar *
  • The Quays - Worldwide Snacks *
  • Ripples - Ice Cream *
  • Grab and Go - Snacks
  • Taste 360 - Street Food
  • Room Service *

Reviews We perform checks on reviews. Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines , the review is not published. When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site. Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines . Learn more about our review moderation.

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  • Average 103
  • Terrible 75
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We Stayed in 3 Different Balcony Cabins (P&O’s Arvia and Iona) – Comparison

If you are considering sailing on P&O’s Arvia or Iona, you may wonder if a balcony cabin would suit you. I have stayed in three types in the past.

P&O’s Arvia and Iona are sister ships. I have sailed on both – they are very very similar in many ways.

The design and decor of the cabins are identical, so if you are sailing on either ship – this article will help.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

P&O’s Iona and Arvia

Arvia is the largest ship ever commissioned for the British cruise market at around 184,700 gross tonnes.

Iona is very slightly smaller at around 184,089 tonnes.

Iona has been sailing since 2020, and Arvia joined the P&O fleet in 2022.

Both Iona and Arvia have a normal operating capacity of 5,200 guests and 1,800 crew – but if all the 3rd and 4th berths are in use she can take just over 6500 passengers.

Iona is home to 2,614 cabins, including 1,366 Balcony, 120 Deluxe Balcony and 95 Conservatory Mini-suites

Arvia has more Balcony cabins than sister ship Iona, some of which are Deluxe Balcony cabins which have nearly as much space as a suite.

She has fewer conservatory mini-suite cabins than Iona.

Standard Balcony Cabins On Arvia and Iona

Balcony cabins range between 142 and 279 square feet / 13 and 25 square metres.

Balcony cabins can hold up to 4 people.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

The cabins are decorated in tasteful blues and creams, with a striking patterned carpet on the floor.

All Balcony Cabins Have:

  • A double bed that can be made into two twins
  • A sofa bed that can be made up as a single bed. If four people are sharing a cabin there will be a fourth bed (Pullman bed) that comes down from the ceiling above the sofa bed.
  • A table that can be used as a bedside table if the sofa bed is occupied.
  • A desk area and a chair.
  • Mini Fridge
  • Safe inside the wardrobe/closet
  • Bedside tables with USB charging port on one side only
  • Tea and Coffee making facilities
  • Interactive TV with many TV shows and films to choose from, free of charge.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

The Bathroom

The bathroom was very well designed to make the most of the available space.

The shower was a good size, had a glass shower door and water didn’t leak out into the rest of the room, making everything wet – like so many other cruise ship bathrooms I have stayed in.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

Our room was made up just once a day. Unfortunately, there were no bedtime chocolates involved like there are on some other cruise lines.

There were magnetic “Do Not Disturb” and “I’m Out Exploring” signs so that the cabin steward knew whether to come in and clean or not.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

My Cabin Was – 12118

Arvia plan cabin 12118

What I Particularly Liked:

  • I liked the design and style of the cabin and the bed was very comfy
  • The well-designed bathroom.
  • The design of the table by the sofa which was a great space-saving design
  • The interactive TV was great for checking my onboard account, and there was a lot of choice when it came to things to watch.
  • We had a great view from our balcony of the promenade deck – and the land when we were docked.
  • Good hairdryer

Things That I Didn’t Like:

  • Not a great deal of storage – ok for two people, but it would be a struggle if four people were sharing the cabin.
  • There was no magnet on the shower door – only a minor detail – but I went to the bathroom in the middle of the night when the sea was quite rough. I opened the bathroom door and walked straight into the glass shower door which had swung open!
  • USB socket by the bed on one side only.
  • My location was right at the front of the ship. It was a long walk to anywhere ( which I don’t particularly mind, but it certainly wouldn’t suit everyone). Because of the location, the movement of the ship was far more noticeable than elsewhere.
  • Even when the balcony door was tightly shut, the noise of the wind through it was SO loud. Luckily I am quite a heavy sleeper…

Would I Choose Balcony Cabin number 12118 Again?

I would happily stay in a standard balcony again but if I was choosing the location I’d pick one closer to the middle to minimise movement and the wind.

If I booked a guaranteed cabin and was assigned this cabin again I would still be happy.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

I often choose “Guaranteed” cabins where I don’t get to choose the location onboard to save money. Find out more about that here:

I Always Book Guaranteed Cabins on Cruise Ships – (Photo Examples, Regrets & More)

My Parent’s Balcony -15602

Arvia deck plan cabin 15602

My parent’s balcony cabin was exactly the same in design as mine.

My brother shared with them, so there were three in the cabin, with my brother Max sleeping on the sofa bed.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

They also found the cabin to be very comfortable and well-designed, but there were a few things they didn’t like about the location .

What they didn’t like:

  • Because it was on deck 15, and deck 16 stuck out further, the cabin never got the sun.
  • There was a metal bulkhead between them and the next-door cabin, instead of the normal partition. This made the area even darker.
  • There wasn’t really enough storage/wardrobe space for three adults.
  • The location of the cabin, below the kitchen area of the buffet, was very noisy.

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

“The hard working crew were working in the kitchens until around two or three every morning – then started again around 5am. They were dropping things, dragging stuff about, slamming doors – even wearing ear plugs every night, we never got a good nights sleep.” – My Mum

Would They Choose Balcony Cabin Number 15602 Again?

No, definitely not!

My parents have taken over fifty cruises, and have never had a cabin anywhere near as noisy as this one.

If you value a good night’s sleep – choose a balcony cabin on a deck further down.

Cabins on decks 14 through to 10 are surrounded by only other cabins, not public areas – they would be far quieter.

Promenade Deck Conservatory Cabin (Mini Suite)

Cabin 8304 on iona.

Conservatory Mini Suite cabin no 8304

When I sailed on Iona, we had the Conservatory Mini Suite on deck 8.

These conservatory mini-suites are identical in every way to a standard balcony cabin – but they have an additional Conservatory seating area.

Conservatory Mini Suite on Iona

The balcony opens out directly onto the promenade deck, so you don’t have an uninterrupted view of the Ocean .

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

People can be walking past the end of your balcony at any time of the day or night. There are also hot tubs situated on the promenade deck, and they can be quite close to your cabin.

(Having said that you also can’t get down onto the promenade deck to use the hot tubs without climbing over the edge of the glass balcony partition. It’s a long way round.)

As with the standard balcony cabin, I loved the design and layout of the cabin itself.

Having the extra conservatory area was a bonus, as I was sharing a cabin with my parents and sleeping on the sofa bed. Space was at a premium.

Deck 8 Iona Mini Suite Conservatory Cabin

Things that People Don’t Like About Conservatory Mini Suites

  • The suites on deck 8 are at the same level as the promenade deck, so people are walking past them all the time. The same suite on deck 9 would give you more privacy.
  • People may be able to see into your conservatory area, depending on the light. P&O have put a mirrored surface on the patio doors to try to prevent this from happening, but if you have the lights on in the conservatory, people are likely to be able to see you in there.
  • No direct view of the ocean – there is the promenade deck and glass screens between you and the sea.

Find out more about that Mini Suite Cabin here:

Many Ships Are Similar To Arvia and Iona

Other ships sailing for other cruise lines are built to the same basic design as Arvia and Iona. These include:

  • Costa Smeralda
  • Costa Toscana
  • Carnival Mardi Gras
  • Carnival Celebration
  • Carnival Jubilee

The Interior design and decor of the ships are very different though. P&O’s Arvia and Iona have tasteful, muted colours throughout.

I sailed on Costa Smeralda – every single deck was painted a different bright colour!

My balcony cabin had a very unusual feature. Watch the video below to find out about that:

Before You Go

I also stayed in the cheapest inside cabin on Iona to see if it offered good value for money. It was one of my favourite inside cabins ever. Find out all about that cabin here:

P&O Iona Inside Cabin Photo Review – Space, Bathroom, Cleanliness and More

Find out how P&O’s Mega ships Iona and Arvia compare to the older ships in the P&O fleet here:

I Cruised on P&O’s Iona and Ventura – Here’s How They Compare

iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

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Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

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P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin Review

We spent a week on the brand new cruise ship Iona, this was one of the first UK Seacations and our first cruise back with P&O since our cruise on Oceana pre COVID Pandemic.

We had booked a guarantee balcony cabin and had our cabin changed when we arrived at the port. Embarkation did not run smoothly (watch our vlog series ) but when we eventually got to our cabin we were very surprised to see we had been allocated an accessible cabin on deck 12 – 12514.

In this post we show you all around this type of cabin, including the main room. bathroom, storage, accessibility functions and one of the largest balconies on this ship.

We have also included our video tour and review of this cabin at the end of this post too.

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review Entrance

Accessible cabin 12514 is situated mid ship right around the corner from the lifts. This cabin is in an excellent location and even though it is so close to the lift we were never disturbed by any noise.

Access to the cabin is by using your cruise card and once recognised, the door opens automatically. There is space and access all around the bed and no lips or obstructions to be navigated.

The bed in this cabin was so comfortable, and we slept really well. In this post we explain exactly what else this cabin has to offer.

Related Reading – P&O WiFi Packages – How much do they cost?

Storage and facilities in P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review Storage space wardrobes and cupboards

There is a lot of storage in this cabin including space for cases and fold away equipment under the bed. There are two large wardrobes, one with a rail that can be pulled to a lower level and another 3 door wardrobe with lots of shelves and space.

Near to the vanity desk area there is a safe which can fit a small lap top or iPad and also a fridge which can fit the tin bottles of waters you can get at the bar and fit the two bottles of alcohol that you are allowed to take on board. There is also a kettle in the room with  PG Tips tea bags, milk, sugar and Douwe Egberts coffee provided.

Related reading – P&O Bar Prices and Drinks Packages

There are sensory facilities within the cabin when the doorbell rings or the safety announcements occur. There is a vibrating pad that can be placed under the pillow, a loud alarm that sounds and also a flashing light so that any one with sensory deficiencies can be alerted.

There are English 3 pin plugs by each side of the bed and by the desk so charging equipment, phones and cameras was not an issue at all. There was also a powerful hairdryer provided too. A large TV opposite the bed has plenty of channels, a map of the ship and access to your on board account which you can check any time.

The Horizon daily planner is also delivered to your cabin every day and your cabin steward will visit once a day between 8-12 midday to clean your cabin and replenish anything that you need.

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review telephone and communication aids

The Balcony of P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514

This balcony is huge! As you can see from the deck plan above it is an L shape which enables you to have views towards the aft of the ship. It is covered and protected and when sat near to the doors of the cabin you have total privacy, however towards the end of the balcony can be seen from the cabins towards the aft.

The balcony doors are automatic and can be opened and closed by just pulling the handle slightly, they can also be locked. There is a ramp onto the balcony which does have ridged sides, this is fine for wheelchairs but can be a hazard when it comes to hitting your toe, as we painfully found out!

This is a fabulous space, with two reclining chairs and a small table, we spent a lot of time out here.

Related Reading –  P&O Laundry Costs

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review balcony

The Bathroom in P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12415

The bathroom is open plan, with a shower, toilet and wash basin and a push button panel is used to open the door. The shower has a fold down bench that is really large,  and the toilet has handrails on all sides, with one that can be moved up and down. The sink can also be adjusted to what ever height is needed.

It is an excellent bathroom, very spacious and should suits most needs. A couple of negative points though was that at night the door was quite noisy and made a loud click when it closed, not a huge problem just something to note, and the shelves to the right of the sink are high and wouldn’t be able to be reached if your are in a wheelchair.

P&O Iona Accessible Balcony Cabin 12514 Review balcony bathroom

This is an well appointed accessible cabin and one of the best that we have seen since travelling with Paul’s Dad. who has limited mobility. We would recommend booking this cabin if you have special needs as it is in a fabulous location, and has a superb sized balcony!

To compliment this post we also have a tour and video review that you can watch below.

Related Videos – For more cabin tours and reviews do check out our Cruise Ship Cabins Playlist on our You Tube Channel.

More information about the P&O Cruise Ship Fleet can also be found on our P&O You Tube Playlist and P&O Page .

View more video blogs on YouTube > > >

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iona cruise ship deluxe balcony cabin

INSIDER

I stayed in a balcony cabin on Royal Caribbean's 2 newest and largest cruise ships. One was clearly better — and $900 cheaper.

Posted: April 27, 2024 | Last updated: April 27, 2024

<ul class="summary-list"><li><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-icon-of-the-seas-cruise-ship-review-photos-2024-2">Icon of the Seas</a> and Wonder of the Seas are Royal Caribbean's newest and largest cruise ships.</li><li>I stayed in both of their balcony staterooms — a $130-per-person-per-day difference.</li><li>Icon's pricier cabin looked more modern but lacked the functionality and comfort of Wonder's.</li></ul><p>Do you know what $900 could buy you? More than three years of Netflix's premium plan, a new Gucci purse, or 2,059 spicy chicken McNuggets.</p><p>Or, in the case of Royal Caribbean's two <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-wonder-icon-of-the-seas-not-for-everyone-2024-4">largest and newest cruise ships</a>, the cash could mean the difference between a cheap but functional balcony cabin and, ironically, a more expensive but less comfortable one.</p><p>Staterooms with balconies are the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/era-of-cheap-cruises-is-over-2023-10#:~:text=From%20July%202022%20through%20the,itineraries%20that%20fit%20this%20criteria.">most popular cruise cabin</a> category. After all, if you're going on a vacation at sea, wouldn't you want to be able to feel its breeze from your room?</p><p>But not all cabins with private outdoor spaces are created equal, even on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-largest-cruise-ships-wonder-icon-compared-2024-4">two new mega-ships</a> owned by the same cruise line.</p><div class="read-original">Read the original article on <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-wonder-vs-icon-of-the-seas-balcony-cabin-compared-2024-4">Business Insider</a></div>

  • Icon of the Seas and Wonder of the Seas are Royal Caribbean's newest and largest cruise ships.
  • I stayed in both of their balcony staterooms — a $130-per-person-per-day difference.
  • Icon's pricier cabin looked more modern but lacked the functionality and comfort of Wonder's.

Do you know what $900 could buy you? More than three years of Netflix's premium plan, a new Gucci purse, or 2,059 spicy chicken McNuggets.

Or, in the case of Royal Caribbean's two largest and newest cruise ships , the cash could mean the difference between a cheap but functional balcony cabin and, ironically, a more expensive but less comfortable one.

Staterooms with balconies are the most popular cruise cabin category. After all, if you're going on a vacation at sea, wouldn't you want to be able to feel its breeze from your room?

But not all cabins with private outdoor spaces are created equal, even on two new mega-ships owned by the same cruise line.

<p>In 2024, Wonder of the Seas is scheduled for year-round sailings from Port Canaveral to the Caribbean and <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-perfect-day-cococay-new-adult-only-area-review-2024-2">Royal Caribbean's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay</a>, starting at $700 per person.</p><p>Icon of the Seas is spending its first year in service operating nearly identical itineraries but from Miami instead. The <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-icon-of-the-seas-trip-price-expensive-2023-11">cheapest 2024 option</a> is $1,786 per person.</p><p>That's a difference of more than $125 per person per day.</p><p>"Bookings and pricing for Icon of the Seas can only be described as 'iconic,'" Naftali Holtz, the CFO of Royal Caribbean Group, told analysts in February.</p>

I sailed on Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas in 2022 and its larger successor, Icon of the Seas, in January.

Royal Caribbean assigned me an ocean-view balcony cabin for both complimentary sailings, the longest of which was three nights on Icon.

Both ships are operating seven-night cruises around the Caribbean in 2024.

<p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/review-stateroom-royal-caribbean-wonder-of-the-seas-cruise-2022-12">Wonder of the Seas' balcony cabins</a> start shy of $1,110 per person in 2024.</p><p>Even with nearly identical itineraries, the ones on Icon are, at their cheapest, a little more than $2,000 per person this year — or double that for the a New Year's cruise.</p>

About 66% of Wonder's cabins fall under the 'balcony' category. On Icon, they make up half of the staterooms.

Wonder of the Seas' balcony cabins start shy of $1,110 per person in 2024.

Even with nearly identical itineraries, the ones on Icon are, at their cheapest, a little more than $2,000 per person this year — or double that for the a New Year's cruise.

<p>The pool decks were intensely colorful, the crowds were inescapable, and the long <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/icon-of-the-seas-wonder-of-the-seas-royal-caribbean-2024-1">lists of activities</a> and dining options were paralyzing.</p>

Wonder and Icon are the most boisterous, flamboyant, and overwhelming vessels I've ever boarded.

The pool decks were intensely colorful, the crowds were inescapable, and the long lists of activities and dining options were paralyzing.

<p>The neutral tans, blues, and whites did not scream "we belong on the world's biggest and most colorful cruise ships."</p><p>The vessels have an almost two-year age difference, as evidenced by some of their decor (mainly Icon's recessed mood lights and the more chic, darker wood tones).</p><p>But besides the light fixtures, rugs, and — frankly negligible — wall art and pillows, both cabins were fairly underwhelming compared to <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbeans-icon-of-the-seas-last-mega-ships-2024-3">everything outside their front doors</a>.</p>

So imagine my surprise when I unlocked my doors to find surprisingly bland rooms.

The neutral tans, blues, and whites did not scream "we belong on the world's biggest and most colorful cruise ships."

The vessels have an almost two-year age difference, as evidenced by some of their decor (mainly Icon's recessed mood lights and the more chic, darker wood tones).

But besides the light fixtures, rugs, and — frankly negligible — wall art and pillows, both cabins were fairly underwhelming compared to everything outside their front doors .

<p>Both had furnished 50-square-foot balconies.</p><p>Regarding the interior space, my 204-square-foot <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-icon-of-the-seas-most-expensive-cabin-photo-2024-1">cabin on Icon of the Seas</a> was 22 square feet larger than mine on Wonder.</p><p>In retrospect, I would've thought Icon's was smaller. More on that in a bit.</p>

Aesthetics aside, let’s talk functionality.

Both had furnished 50-square-foot balconies.

Regarding the interior space, my 204-square-foot cabin on Icon of the Seas was 22 square feet larger than mine on Wonder.

In retrospect, I would've thought Icon's was smaller. More on that in a bit.

<p>And both were flanked by light fixtures with built-in USB outlets, as is expected on most modern cruise ships.</p><p>The cruise line says the ships' balcony cabins use two twin mattresses that have been "converted" to make a king bed. It's a common practice I've never had an issue with — until Icon.</p>

Both king-sized beds faced a television and some wall storage.

And both were flanked by light fixtures with built-in USB outlets, as is expected on most modern cruise ships.

The cruise line says the ships' balcony cabins use two twin mattresses that have been "converted" to make a king bed. It's a common practice I've never had an issue with — until Icon.

<p>Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the new ship.</p><p>I (my back pain) could feel the hard ridge where the two mattresses met, making for a pretty miserable and uncomfortable sleep.</p><p>So much for starfishing — I kept to one side of the bed to avoid rolling over the bony bump.</p>

On Wonder, the plush pillows enveloped me the moment I laid down. I slept great. No complaints.

Unfortunately, I can't say the same for the new ship.

I (my back pain) could feel the hard ridge where the two mattresses met, making for a pretty miserable and uncomfortable sleep.

So much for starfishing — I kept to one side of the bed to avoid rolling over the bony bump.

<p>Both had the same furniture I see on almost every mass-market ship: a couch that could convert into a bed and a desk that extended into a dresser. </p>

For the most part, the living “rooms” were the same.

Both had the same furniture I see on almost every mass-market ship: a couch that could convert into a bed and a desk that extended into a dresser.

<p>Two thin wardrobes with drawers, hangars, and shelves surrounded either side of my <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/balcony-stateroom-on-royal-caribbeans-wonder-of-the-seas-cruise-2022-12">bed on Wonder</a>.</p><p>Icon, on the other hand, had one large wardrobe next to the living room.</p><p>Unfortunately, it had noticeably less shelving. And the metal bins let out ear-piercing screeches at every move — a lazy and annoying detail that the designers could've easily fixed with cheap felt pads.</p>

But storage, a high priority for cruisers, was organized differently.

Two thin wardrobes with drawers, hangars, and shelves surrounded either side of my bed on Wonder .

Icon, on the other hand, had one large wardrobe next to the living room.

Unfortunately, it had noticeably less shelving. And the metal bins let out ear-piercing screeches at every move — a lazy and annoying detail that the designers could've easily fixed with cheap felt pads.

<p>I had two gripes with my Wonder bathroom: the lack of hair conditioner and the ill-positioned faucet that flooded the counter whenever I washed my hands.</p><p>I had the same issues on Icon. But that was the least of my concerns.</p>

So far, the differences have been small. But not for long.

I had two gripes with my Wonder bathroom: the lack of hair conditioner and the ill-positioned faucet that flooded the counter whenever I washed my hands.

I had the same issues on Icon. But that was the least of my concerns.

<p>But imagine paying hundreds of dollars a night, per person, just to get towels that shed, two-in-one body wash and shampoo, and no conditioner.</p><p>(Guests in the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/royal-caribbean-icon-of-the-seas-most-expensive-cabin-photo-2024-1">$100,000-a-week Ultimate Family Townhouse</a> get high-end Malin and Goetz toiletries!)</p>

My bathroom on the older ship was well-sized for 1 person, but maybe too small for 2.

On Icon — the world's largest cruise ship — my bathroom was too compact for even one body.

Michael Bayley, the president and CEO of Royal Caribbean International, told reporters in January that 80% of Icon's 2,805 cabins were designed for families, a sharp increase from previous vessels like Wonder.

I'm not sure a family of four could coexist in Icon's balcony cabin — solely because of the bathroom size. There's no way two people could fit in there simultaneously. A fight over who gets priority access to the toilet could ruin a peaceful family vacation! (Which is to say, I'm glad I was traveling alone.)

<p>The spare towels had to be stored on a shelf <em>inside </em>the shower. Because the counter was so small, I had to keep most of my toiletries and products on the shelves or in the drawer.</p><p>Surprisingly, that's where Icon excelled. Its bathroom had more storage options than its older counterpart, which didn't even have a drawer.</p><p>However, the older ship's shower had a clothesline perfect for drying swimwear. It's a small but crucial amenity, especially on a vessel with so many pools and waterslides.</p><p>Unfortunately, both were stocked with two-in-one body wash and shampoo — and no hair conditioner</p>

With the bathroom door closed, I accidentally elbowed the walls more times than I could count.

The spare towels had to be stored on a shelf inside the shower. Because the counter was so small, I had to keep most of my toiletries and products on the shelves or in the drawer.

Surprisingly, that's where Icon excelled. Its bathroom had more storage options than its older counterpart, which didn't even have a drawer.

However, the older ship's shower had a clothesline perfect for drying swimwear. It's a small but crucial amenity, especially on a vessel with so many pools and waterslides.

Unfortunately, both were stocked with two-in-one body wash and shampoo — and no hair conditioner

<p>My balcony cabin on Wonder looked less modern than its successor (the TV on Icon had Chromecast, after all).</p><p>But it was significantly more functional and comfortable. The bed was incomparably more pleasant, the closets had more defined storage components, and the bathroom was considerably larger, even if it lacked additional shelving and drawers.</p>

Let’s go through our checklist.

My balcony cabin on Wonder looked less modern than its successor (the TV on Icon had Chromecast, after all).

But it was significantly more functional and comfortable. The bed was incomparably more pleasant, the closets had more defined storage components, and the bathroom was considerably larger, even if it lacked additional shelving and drawers.

<p>Icon's cheapest balcony cabins are currently $900 more than the most affordable ones on Wonder — an almost $130 per person and day difference.</p><p>Based on the quality of the staterooms alone, if you prioritize functionality, comfort, and affordability over modern decor, consider saving money and going with the <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/review-royal-caribbean-wonder-of-the-sea-cruise-ship-photos-2023-1">two-year-old ship</a>.</p>

The question is: Which one is more worth its price?

Icon's cheapest balcony cabins are currently $900 more than the most affordable ones on Wonder — an almost $130 per person and day difference.

Based on the quality of the staterooms alone, if you prioritize functionality, comfort, and affordability over modern decor, consider saving money and going with the two-year-old ship .

<p><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/why-cruise-lines-royal-caribbean-need-private-islands-2024-3"><span>Royal Caribbean</span></a><span> invited me on complimentary, non-revenue sailings on both ships: two nights on Wonder in late 2022 and three nights on Icon in January.</span></p><p><span>I spent most of my time lost, overwhelmed, and exhausted.</span></p><p><span>It's no surprise both ships are operating </span><a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/icon-of-the-seas-joins-royal-caribbean-fleet-2023-11"><span>weeklong itineraries</span></a><span> this year. Any less, and you might not have time to experience all the activities and restaurants on your list.</span></p>

But let’s not forget that cruise fares include unlimited food, on board activities, and nighttime entertainment.

Both ships have a fairly similar list of amenities. But only the newer one has a waterpark , an adult-only infinity pool club, and a swim-up bar, to name a few unique amenities.

So yes, Icon's balcony cabins are more costly. But the staggering price difference — and tiny bathroom — could be worth it if you think the its surplus of additional amenities is worth paying for.

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  1. First Secret Revealed Of P&O's Iona: British Contemporary Luxury At Its

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  2. Cabins on Iona

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VIDEO

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  6. P&O Iona Cruise Ship Accessible Standard Balcony Cabin 12514

COMMENTS

  1. Iona Deluxe Balcony Stateroom Cabins

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