This is what you get when you book the cheapest cabin on P&O Cruises’ MV Iona 🚢
Take a look around our inside cabin on deck 10 (cabin 10118). It was pretty much the furthest forward you could get, but being a big ship meant we barely felt any movement, even when the sea was supposed to be a little rougher in the first few days. Our only complaint is that we had to walk ages to get anywhere – even from the theatre it was still a long walk back to our cabin 😅
Our cosy interior cabin was fine…
Stepping onto the MV Iona, the first thing that stands out about cabin 10118 is its placement on deck ten, right at the very bow of the ship. Because it’s the cheapest interior option, the price felt surprisingly modest, yet the location offers an unbeatable sense of being at the front edge of the vessel. You’ll find yourself looking out over the sea with a clear view of the ship’s wake, and the proximity to the forward promenade means you can watch the horizon unfold without any obstruction. Despite the budget tag, the cabin’s structural position actually grants a smoother ride, as the forward section cuts through waves more gently than the mid‑ship zones.
Inside, the cabin is surprisingly functional for two passengers, featuring a compact but tidy layout with a single bunk‑style bed, a small wardrobe, and a compact bathroom that includes a shower with a glass door. The décor leans toward a neutral palette, and the lighting is soft enough to create a relaxed atmosphere after a long day of exploring. One downside we noticed is the distance to some of the ship’s key venues; the theatre, main dining hall, and buffet are all a fair walk away, meaning you’ll need to budget extra time if you plan to attend shows or grab a late‑night bite. Nonetheless, the quiet position near the bow helps keep engine noise to a minimum.

The photograph linked to this review gives a clear glimpse of the cabin’s interior, showing light‑colored walls, a modest bedside lamp, and a small vanity that holds a few toiletries. A faint hint of a patterned rug lies near the foot of the bed, adding a touch of warmth without crowding the space. Storage solutions are modest; a couple of shelves sit above the wardrobe, and a hanging rack provides extra room for jackets or bags. While the décor is intentionally simple, the overall feel is clean and uncluttered, which makes the cabin feel larger than its square footage suggests. If you value a low‑maintenance environment, the straightforward design is a pleasant surprise for a budget‑friendly stay.
Overall, the cheapest interior cabin on the Iona delivers a solid mix of affordability and functional design, especially for travelers who prioritize location over luxury. The forward placement reduces motion, which is a relief for those prone to seasickness, and the quiet surroundings make early‑morning reading sessions a reality. However, the trade‑off comes in the form of longer walks to entertainment zones and a smaller bathroom that may feel cramped during peak usage. If you’re comfortable navigating the ship’s corridors and don’t mind a modest amount of walking, the cabin provides good value for money, allowing you to allocate more of your budget toward shore excursions or onboard experiences that truly enrich the cruise.
In the end, cabin 10118 proves that a low‑cost interior does not have to feel like a compromise if you choose the right spot on the ship. Its forward position grants a surprisingly stable ride, and the clean, unpretentious décor keeps the space feeling welcoming. The main caveat is the distance to some amenities, which can be a factor for those who want immediate access to the ship’s nightlife or dining options. For budget‑conscious explorers who appreciate a quieter environment and don’t mind a short stroll to the main areas, this cabin offers a sensible, well‑positioned base for enjoying the many activities the Iona has to offer. Would recommend for those who value experience over extravagance.
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