The cruise ship is ready to leave the shipyard to undergo sea trials.
P&O Cruises revealed today that the new ship Iona, the largest ever built for the UK market, will delay its maiden voyage due to the global coronavirus pandemic.
The 5,200-passenger ship is at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany, where the final stages of its construction are taking place.
The news comes as the company extended the suspension of its fleet until May 15, 2020, after an initial 30-day pause.
Paul Ludlow, president of P&O, said in a statement: “In addition to the extended fleet shutdown, the restrictions have forced a temporary slowdown in Meyer Werft’s work in Germany, where the final outfitting of the new ship is being completed. We are working with the team at the shipyard to see exactly how this will impact the cruise ship’s delivery.”.
"We deeply regret the disappointment this will cause to everyone, and particularly to those guests who had booked Iona's maiden voyage.".
Iona's maiden voyage was scheduled to depart from Southampton on May 14 for a nine-night cruise through the Norwegian fjords.
