Jo Whiley hosting naming ceremony of P&O Cruises’ Iona

The LNG-powered vessel will sail from on August 7, embarking on its seven-night maiden voyage around the island of Iona and the Scottish Isles.

‘We are delighted to have Jo Whiley as our host for the event – with her inimitable warmth and style she will certainly embrace the virtual format and ensure all our guests feel an integral part of this special evening,’ commented Paul Ludlow, president, P&O Cruises.

Alex James’ Britpop cider 

The ceremony will involve the smashing of a nebuchadnezzar of Britpop cider, created by Blur bassist Alex James. 

‘Cider has often been used throughout history for ship launches, most notably during Prohibition, and for P&O Cruises and Iona, with her many “firsts,” it is very fitting to have English apples, grown from this ancient soil and pressed in this country, for the christening,’ continued Ludlow.

Gary Barlow is scheduled to perform at the event with the ship’s godmother, Dame Irene Hays, also attending.