Sailing through the breathtaking Norwegian Fjords is an unforgettable experience, but choosing the right accommodation can make it even more special. On P&O’s Iona, a balcony cabin offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and stunning scenery. But is it worth the additional cost? In this post, we’ll take you through our experience in a balcony cabin on Iona, covering everything from sleeping arrangements to storage, bathroom facilities, and, of course, those incredible views of the Norweigan Fjords.
Why choose a balcony cabin on Iona?
It’s well-known that the views on a Norwegian Fjords cruise are spectacular, and some people travel for this alone. If you want to be able to look out onto the Fjords at any time of day, from the privacy of your own cabin then booking a balcony cabin is a must. Waking up to the sight of towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and picturesque villages without leaving your bed is an experience you won’t get in an inside cabin.
A balcony also offers a private retreat where you can enjoy fresh air, sip coffee in the morning, and take in the ever-changing views without dealing with crowds on the main decks. Compared to ocean-view or inside cabins, a balcony cabin truly elevates the cruise experience, making it feel even more luxurious and immersive.
If you’re travelling as a family, space onboard can be tricky, especially in a standard cabin. Staying in a standard balcony cabin will give you that extra space, meaning you’re not always on top of one another.
Cabin layout & features
Sleeping Area
When booking your cruise, you have options when it comes to the sleeping area. This can either have twin beds, or a king sized bed. The bed was incredibly comfortable and the pillows are some of the best I’ve ever used. After a long day exploring or having fun, the bed was perfect for a good night’s sleep.
For families, there’s also the option of a children’s bed, which comes in the form of a sofa bed or a pull-down bunk bed, depending on the cabin you have booked. You can ask your cabin steward to either leave the sofa as a bed all day, or change it back to a sofa when you’ve gone out to explore.
Bedside tables with reading lights and USB charging ports make it easy to keep your devices powered up, and blackout curtains ensure a good night’s sleep even with the long daylight hours in Norway during the summer months.
Strorage & wardrobe space
Space is always a concern when staying in a cruise cabin, but P&O has made the most of the available area. The wardrobe provides ample hanging space, with shelves and drawers for folded clothes. There’s also space under the bed to store suitcases, keeping the room tidy and clutter-free.
For a week-long Norwegian Fjords cruise, there’s enough room for all your essentials, but packing efficiently (think layers and comfortable shoes) is key.
A great tip here is to know that the walls are magnetic. We took magnetic hooks with us and I used a wall as storage for handbags etc. This was ideal for long dresses and I could see exactly where things where that I could grab quickly.
Bathroom
The en-suite bathroom in a balcony cabin is compact but well-designed. The shower has a glass door, and the water pressure is excellent. White Company toiletries, including shower gel and shampoo, are provided, so you don’t have to bring your own unless you have a specific preference. You can also ask for conditioner if you need it.
We found the storage in the bathroom to be fantastic, and way more than we expected. Not only are there shelves on the wall, but next to the toilet. I was able to spread everything out, and have loads of spare space as well. It was nice for everything not to be cramped, or have to be put away after each use.
The bathroom is modern and functional, with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
Balcony & outdoor space
The highlight of the cabin is, of course, the balcony. It’s equipped with two chairs and a small table, perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning scenery. While not massive, the space is reasonable, and spacious enough to sit comfortably and enjoy the views.
One of the best things about having a balcony on a Norwegian Fjords cruise is that you don’t have to fight for space on the main decks when sailing through the most scenic areas. Whether it’s sunrise over the fjords or watching a waterfall cascade down a mountainside, the private outdoor space makes every moment more special.
We spent quite a bit of time on our balcony, especially during the morning before we docked in a new port. It was nice to take in the scenery with a coffee while waking up. For families, it also means that bit of additional space!
Additonal features
Beyond the sleeping arrangements and storage, Iona’s balcony cabins come with several useful features that enhance your comfort and convenience:
- Tea and Coffee Facilities: Each cabin is equipped with a kettle, a selection of teas, coffee, milk, and biscuits, making it easy to enjoy a warm drink while taking in the fjord views from your balcony.
- Television: A flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall, offering a range of channels, including ship information, live updates, and movies, perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring.
- Work Space: There’s a small desk area with a chair, ideal for those who need to check emails, write postcards, or use a laptop. It also doubles as a great spot for keeping small items organised.
- Mini-Fridge: A compact fridge is provided, handy for storing drinks and snacks.
- Power Outlets & USB Ports: The cabin includes UK plug sockets, as well as USB charging points by the bed for easy device charging.
These additional features make the cabin feel even more like a home away from home, adding to the overall comfort of your cruise experience.
Best times to enjoy your balcony on a Norwegian Fjords cruise
- Early mornings: Watching the mist lift from the Fjords while sipping a hot drink is an unforgettable experience. We loved waking up to a beautiful sea view, and seeing what we could see as the ship headed towards the next port. I loved hearing the sound of the waves too; it was so relaxing.
- Afternoons: A great time to relax between excursions, enjoying the fresh air and peaceful views. A cruise can be busy and tiring, so it was nice to take a break in the afternoon with some peace and queit.
- Evenings: Sunset over the Fjords can be spectacular, with golden light reflecting off the water and mountains.
Is a balcony cabin suitable for families?
If you’re travelling with children, you might wonder whether a balcony cabin is the best choice for your family. The good news is that P&O’s Iona offers family-friendly balcony cabins with additional sleeping arrangements like sofa beds or pull-down bunks. These setups make it possible for families to enjoy the benefits of a balcony while still having enough space to sleep comfortably.
That said, there are a few things to consider. The extra beds take up floor space when in use, so the room can feel a bit more compact. Additionally, if travelling with younger children, safety is a priority – balcony doors are secure, but it’s always good to set clear rules about when and how kids can use the balcony.
For families who love nature and scenic views, having a balcony can be a wonderful way to share the magic of the Fjords without needing to leave the room. Plus, kids will love spotting waterfalls, boats, and even the occasional dolphin right from their own private space!
Pros and cons of a balcony cabin on Iona
Pros
- Unbeatable views of the Norwegian Fjords.
- Fresh air and a private outdoor space.
- A quieter, more relaxing experience compared to public viewing areas.
- Blackout curtains help with sleep despite long daylight hours in Norway.
Cons
- More expensive than inside or ocean view cabins.
- Weather can be unpredictable, and it may be too cold to use the balcony for long periods.
- Some balconies may have slightly obstructed views, depending on location.
Tips for making the most of your balcony cabin
- Choose your deck wisely: Higher decks offer better views but can be windier. We stayed on deck 15, and it was perfectly fine. We did have a few days of high winds, and you could definitely feel it but we just went elsewhere on the ship when this happened.
- Pack smart: Bring layers, as the fjord temperatures can vary throughout the day.
- Use room service: For those early starts, you can have breakfast brought to your room if you pre-order the night before. Expect things like pastries, cereal and muffins. This is great if you’re travelling with children who like to eat early.
- Bring binoculars: Spot waterfalls, wildlife, and small villages along the Fjords.
- Check the ship’s itinerary: Plan to be on your balcony during scenic sail-throughs like Geirangerfjord or Hardangerfjord.
Would we book a balcony cabin again?
So, is a balcony cabin on Iona worth it for a Norwegian Fjords cruise? Absolutely! The ability to step outside and take in the breathtaking scenery at any time, without leaving your cabin, makes a huge difference. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful morning cuppa, capturing stunning photos, or simply breathing in the fresh Norwegian air, a balcony cabin enhances the experience in a way that no inside or ocean view cabin can.
If you’re considering booking a Norwegian Fjords cruise on Iona, we highly recommend the balcony option. It made our first cruise absolutely magical but now, I don’t know if we can ever book anything else!
