P&O Cruises has named its new ship Iona as a “celebration of the sea and our island nation”.
But to be completely accurate, P&O Cruises didn’t decide on the name itself but called on members of the public to submit their suggestions.
More than 30,000 people responded and Iona emerged as the most popular choice. So Iona it is!
P&O Cruises senior vice-president Paul Ludlow said: “We are an island nation and as Britain’s favourite cruise line it seems very fitting to highlight one of our most notable islands and celebrate the geographic diversity of the UK, especially as we can trace back our roots to the Scottish Isles.
“Iona played a significant part in shaping the history of our nation and we hope that with this very special name our new ship will shape the future of holidays at sea for generations.”
The Inner Hebridean island of Iona continues to be a crucial link to trade and a thriving tourism industry, requiring two sea crossings to reach the island.
Ludlow added: “Iona is known for its peace and tranquillity, stunning landscape and, most importantly, the view of the ocean from almost every point on the island. This mirrors our primary intention when building the ship, which was to make the sea the star.
“Throughout the design process we were mindful that we were building a ship, not a hotel, and the intrinsic beauty of the sea, the vistas of the coastlines and ports of call should be at the fore and visible as much as possible from all areas of the ship.”