Our recent cruise on the P&O Iona took us on a stunning journey through the Norwegian Fjords. With my wife and our two boys, we stayed in a balcony cabin on Deck 14, giving us breathtaking views every morning. The Iona is a perfect family-friendly cruise liner, offering plenty of activities for everyone.
The Iona itself was a marvel. From the moment we boarded, we could see it was designed with families in mind. The glass SkyDome provided an all-weather space, perfect for watching live performances and light shows in the evenings. Our boys especially enjoyed the infinity pools at the back of the ship, spending countless hours splashing around while we admired the sea views.
One of the ship’s standout features for me was the top deck’s running track. I ran most mornings, staying committed to my fitness regime, with the spectacular fjords as my backdrop. When the wind picked up, I headed to Iona’s well-equipped gym to continue my workouts indoors. The ship also had a great variety of dining options, from casual meals to elegant dinners, perfect for both us and the kids.
Stavanger: History and Festive Charm
Olden: Hiking the Briksdal Glacier and Sailaway Celebration
Olden was a visual treat. I woke up at 5 am to watch the ship glide into port, passing towering fjords and cascading waterfalls, a serene moment worth the early rise.
Olden was where the adventure truly began. Nestled at the end of the Nordfjord, Olden is known for its dramatic natural scenery and, most famously, the Briksdal Glacier. We embarked on a hike that led us through an awe-inspiring landscape—first passing lush green valleys and picturesque waterfalls, before reaching the rugged path that led up to the glacier.
The hike was challenging but rewarding. As we climbed higher, the temperature dropped, and the view became increasingly dramatic, with icy blue water cascading down the mountainside and towering ice formations in the distance.
Finally reaching Briksdal Glacier felt like a surreal moment. The glacier’s massive ice tongue stretched down into the valley, a stark reminder of nature’s power and beauty. This experience alone made the stop at Olden unforgettable.
Later, the sailaway party from Olden was a truly spectacular moment—the locals cranked up music at full blast, waving flags from their windows as we sailed away. It felt like the whole town had come out to celebrate with us!
Hellesylt: Waterfall Walks and Thrills in Geirangerfjord
Our last port was the peaceful village of Hellesylt, known for its proximity to Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The village itself was small but incredibly picturesque. We began with a walk through the village to see the Hellesylt Waterfall, which dramatically cuts through the town, creating a scene that was both calming and powerful. The sound of the rushing water as it tumbled over rocks was the perfect backdrop for a peaceful morning.
Hellesylt offered a peaceful village experience with stunning scenery. We walked through the village, taking in the famous Hellesylt waterfall, which cascades right through the center of town. But the real excitement came with the RIB boat ride through the Geirangerfjord.
The boat sped through the fjord, passing remote farms clinging to the cliffs and waterfalls like the famous Seven Sisters. The ride was exhilarating and the perfect way to end our journey.
Our youngest had the time of his life, shouting, “Do doughnuts!” at the driver, who happily spun the boat around for extra fun. The fjord’s towering cliffs and gushing waterfalls made for a thrilling and scenic adventure.
Family Fun Aboard the Iona
Beyond the excursions, there was plenty of fun to be had aboard the Iona. Our oldest son loved the ping pong tables on the upper decks and made it a daily activity. The infinity pools at the back of the ship were another hit with both boys—they spent hours playing in the water, while we relaxed and enjoyed the sea views
Reflections on a Perfect Family Cruise
From the early-morning sail into Olden to the thrill of the RIB boat in Hellesylt, this trip was an unforgettable family adventure. The P&O Iona provided luxury and entertainment, making every moment special. We can’t wait to share the photos from each port, so stay tuned for more memories!
