If you’re sailing on P&O Iona and wondering what the entertainment is like, the first thing to know is that Iona has a lot going on, but it helps to understand how the different venues work.
Iona is one of P&O Cruises’ newer Excel-class ships, so the entertainment setup feels different from older ships like Britannia, Ventura or Azura. You still have a proper theatre for the main evening shows, but you also have the SkyDome, the Club House, the 710 Club, Brodie’s, Ocean Studios, the Limelight Club and plenty of live music, quizzes, talks and daytime activities around the ship.
On my sailing, Iona was full, and entertainment still did not feel like a problem.
The main thing is to plan the shows you really want to see, especially in the Headliners Theatre and the 710 Club. For most other things, you can usually just turn up, although it is still worth arriving early for popular quizzes, bingo, SkyDome shows and cinema screenings.
In this guide, I’ll walk through the main entertainment venues on P&O Iona, what happens in each one, what you need to book, what is included, and what to expect in the evenings onboard.
Watch My Full P&O Iona Ship Tour
You can also watch my full P&O Iona ship tour below to see the entertainment venues, bars, restaurants, pool decks, cabins and public areas as they look onboard.
What Is the Entertainment Like on P&O Iona?
Entertainment on Iona is spread across the ship rather than happening in just one place.
The main theatre shows take place in the Headliners Theatre, which spans Decks 6 and 7 forward. This is where you’ll find the larger production shows, guest entertainers, singers, comedians and live performances.
The SkyDome is another major evening venue. During the day it works as a covered pool and social space, but in the evening it can host silent discos, production-style shows, acrobatics, lighting effects and large-scale events.
The Club House on Deck 8 is used for a mix of entertainment including enrichment talks, children’s entertainment earlier in the evening, bingo, live music and late-night dancing.
Then there are smaller venues such as the 710 Club, which has a more intimate live music feel, Brodie’s for quizzes, games and live sport, and Ocean Studios, which is Iona’s four-screen cinema.
There is also the Limelight Club, which is an extra-charge dinner-and-show venue, and family entertainment through The Reef kids’ club and The Scene teen space.
The good thing about Iona is that there is variety. If you want a big theatre show, you have Headliners. If you want something more modern and visual, the SkyDome is worth checking. If you want live music or dancing, the Club House and 710 Club are useful. If you want quizzes or sport, Brodie’s is the place to look.
The main thing is to check the daily programme, because different venues come alive at different times.
What Entertainment Do You Need to Book on Iona?
Entertainment on Iona is quite flexible, but not everything works in the same way. The main things you’ll want to book are the Headliners Theatre shows and the 710 Club, as those are the ones that tend to fill up quickly.
Theatre reservations usually open around 14 days before your cruise. There are typically three performances each evening, usually around 6:45pm, 8:30pm and 10:30pm.
The 8:30pm show is usually the most popular, so if that is the time you want, I would book it in advance. Once it is booked, you do not need to think about it again. And if your plans change onboard, you can usually cancel and rebook.
If you do not have a reservation, that does not always mean you cannot go. You can still join the standby queue, and if there are spare seats, you may still get in.
On my full sailing, I still saw spare seats in most shows. So I would not panic about it, but booking makes everything easier.
Most other entertainment is more flexible. You can usually just turn up for live music, enrichment talks, daytime activities and events like the silent disco in the SkyDome.
But there are a few things where I would still arrive early. Quizzes in Brodie’s can get busy. Bingo in the Club House is usually popular. SkyDome shows have limited seating depending on where you want to watch from. And Ocean Studios can fill up for popular films.
So the simple rule is this: book the theatre and 710 Club if you can, then arrive early for anything you really care about.
Headliners Theatre
The Headliners Theatre is Iona’s main theatre. Its located at the front of the ship across Decks 6 and 7, with the main entrance on Deck 6 and upper seating on Deck 7.
This is where the biggest evening shows take place, including production shows, guest singers, comedians and live performances.
On my cruise, the theatre shows were excellent. The use of LED screens makes the theatre feel more modern, and the bigger productions felt visually strong. The Take That production was one of the highlights of the cruise for me.
We also had two very good guest entertainers, which helped keep the programme varied.
Theatre shows are included in your cruise fare, but you should book the ones you want to see before sailing if possible. Reservations usually open around two weeks before your cruise.
The most popular performance is usually around 8:30pm, because it fits well with dinner and evening plans. If there is one time to book early, that is the one. The later show is often easier to get into, and standby can work if there are spare seats.
Even on a full ship, I didn’t find theatre access to be a major problem. But if there is a specific show you really want to see, booking in advance removes the stress.
SkyDome Entertainment
The SkyDome is one of the biggest differences between Iona and older P&O ships. During the day, it is a covered pool area with seating, bars, hot tubs and casual food nearby. In the evening, it becomes one of the main places for entertainment onboard.
You may find silent discos, live music, production-style shows, acrobatics, lighting effects and large-scale events in this space.
The SkyDome works well because it feels very different from the theatre. It is less formal, more open, and the glass roof gives it a much more modern feel.
On my cruise, the silent disco in the SkyDome on Celebration Night was a lot of fun. It gave the evening a lively atmosphere without feeling like a traditional theatre show.
The SkyDome also has an upper level on Deck 17, where you can sit near the Sky Bar and look down over the performance space below. This can be one of the best places to watch, but seats can fill quickly.
The SeaScreen was also added during Iona’s 2025 refit, giving the SkyDome another entertainment feature.
You usually dont need to book SkyDome entertainment in the same way as the theatre, but you should arrive early if there is something you really want to watch. The seating is more limited than it looks, especially if you want a good view.
The Club House
The Club House is at the aft of Deck 8 and is one of Iona’s main entertainment lounges. It’s a large venue and is used throughout the cruise for different types of activities and events.
During the day, you may find enrichment talks, activities or family entertainment. Earlier in the evening, it may be used for children’s entertainment or more general events. Later at night, it often becomes one of the places for live music and dancing.
Bingo is also held here and can be very popular.
The Club House is one of those venues where the atmosphere depends entirely on what is scheduled. At one time of day, it may feel relaxed and fairly quiet. Later on, it can become one of the liveliest places on the ship.
It is worth checking the Horizon programme each day so you do not miss something you would enjoy.
If you like live music, bingo, dancing or a more casual lounge atmosphere, the Club House is one of the main venues to keep an eye on.
The 710 Club
The 710 Club is one of the most interesting entertainment venues on Iona. It’s on Deck 6 and has a smaller, more intimate feel than the theatre, SkyDome or Club House.
This is a live music venue with more of a jazz-club atmosphere. It is also one of those spaces that can be easy to miss if you do not know it is there. Because it is small, it can fill quickly.
This is one of the venues I would try to book if you know you want to go. It is not the same as just wandering into Brodie’s or the Club House.
The appeal of the 710 Club is that it feels more personal. You are closer to the performers, the room feels more atmospheric, and it gives Iona something different from the bigger entertainment spaces. If you enjoy live music in a smaller venue, this is one to look for early in the cruise.
Brodie’s
Brodie’s is Iona’s British-style pub and one of the most social venues onboard. It’s on Deck 7 and is used for quizzes, games, drinks, live sport and casual evening entertainment.
There are large screens showing sport, along with a pool table and dart boards. That gives Brodie’s a very different feel from the theatre or SkyDome. It’s more casual, more relaxed and often busier during quizzes or sporting events.
If there is football or another major sporting event being shown, Brodie’s is one of the places where passengers will gather.
Quizzes can also get busy, so it is worth arriving early if you want a seat.
Brodie’s is a useful venue because it gives Iona a familiar pub-style space. Not everyone wants theatre shows or large productions every night. Sometimes you just want a quiz, a drink, some sport or somewhere easy to sit.
If you are travelling solo, Brodie’s can also be one of the easier venues to use because it has a more informal atmosphere.
Ocean Studios Cinema
Ocean Studios is Iona’s four-screen cinema and is located on Deck 6, opposite Anderson’s Bar, and shows films throughout the day and evening.
This is a useful option, especially on sea days or cooler-weather cruises when you want something indoors that is not a bar, restaurant or theatre show.
Film screenings can be popular, particularly if the weather is not great or if a well-known film is showing.
You do not usually need to think about Ocean Studios in the same way as the main theatre shows, but I would still arrive early for popular screenings if you want a good seat.
It is also worth checking the daily programme because the film schedule can vary throughout the cruise.
Ocean Studios is one of those venues that adds useful variety to Iona. It gives you another option during the day and evening, especially if you want something quieter than live music or a full show.
Limelight Club
The Limelight Club is on Deck 6 and is Iona’s cabaret-style dinner-and-entertainment venue. This is different from the standard included entertainment because it combines a meal with a live performance.
It’s an extra-charge experience, so you need to book it separately if there is a performer you want to see.
The Limelight Club works well if you want a more structured evening rather than having dinner in one venue and then moving on to a show somewhere else.
It is not somewhere you just casually walk into for entertainment in the same way as the theatre or Club House. It is more of a planned night out.
Whether it is worth booking depends on the performer, the price and what kind of evening you enjoy.
If you like dinner and live entertainment together, it can be a good option. If you prefer to keep things flexible, you may be happy with the included theatre shows, SkyDome entertainment and live music elsewhere around the ship.
Live Music and Guest Acts
Live music is a big part of the entertainment on Iona. You can find it in several venues, depending on the schedule. The 710 Club is the most obvious smaller live music space, but you may also find music in the Club House, SkyDome, atrium areas and other bars around the ship.
The guest entertainers on my cruise were strong, and that made a difference to the overall entertainment programme.
Alongside the main theatre shows, live music and guest acts helped make the evenings feel varied. You were not just choosing between one show or nothing.
The exact lineup will always depend on your sailing, so this is where the daily programme matters. Check what is happening each day rather than assuming the same venue will have the same atmosphere every night.
If you enjoy live music, it is worth looking beyond the theatre. Some of the best moments can be in the smaller venues or more casual evening spaces.
Daytime Entertainment and Activities
Entertainment on Iona is not just about the evening shows. During the day, especially on sea days, there are talks, quizzes, films, bingo, shopping events, sports activities, children’s sessions and general activities around the ship.
The Club House may be used for talks, bingo and activities.
Brodie’s is useful for quizzes and games.
Ocean Studios shows films during the day and evening.
The Sports Arena on Deck 19 is used for organised games such as football and basketball.
The Art Gallery on Deck 6 has exhibitions and artwork available to view or purchase.
There are also deck games, outdoor spaces, the gym, spa, shops and plenty of casual places to sit.
This is important because Iona is a large ship with a lot of passengers, and not everyone wants to spend sea days around the pool. If the SkyDome or pool decks feel busy, it is worth looking at the daily programme and seeing what else is happening.
Entertainment for Families
Iona is a family-friendly ship and has plenty for children and teenagers.
The Reef is the main kids’ club area on Deck 17. It is divided into different sections for different age groups, including the Nursery, Splashers, Surfers and Scubas. There are indoor and outdoor play areas, which gives younger guests different spaces to use during the cruise.
The Scene is the teen hangout space on Deck 6, giving teenagers their own place to meet and take part in organised activities.
Families can also use the main theatre shows, SkyDome entertainment, films at Ocean Studios, quizzes, pool areas, Splash Zone and family activities depending on the sailing.
On my cruise, there seemed to be plenty to keep children entertained.
As always, the exact family programme will depend on whether you are sailing during school holidays and how many families are onboard. But Iona is definitely one of the P&O ships where families are well catered for.
Sports Arena and Outdoor Activities
Deck 19 is where you’ll find Iona’s Sports Arena and golf nets.
This is used for organised daytime games, including football and basketball, and it can be one of the livelier outdoor areas when activities are running.
There is also a jogging track on Deck 18, which is popular for morning walks or runs with sea views.
Elsewhere around the ship, you’ll find outdoor seating, deck games and plenty of open areas for walking or relaxing.
The wraparound promenade deck on Deck 8 is one of the nicest outdoor spaces on Iona and is a good place for a walk if you want to get away from the busier pool decks.
These outdoor spaces are not entertainment venues in the same way as the theatre or SkyDome, but they are still part of what there is to do onboard, especially on sea days.
What Entertainment Is Included on Iona?
Most entertainment on Iona is included in your cruise fare.
The Headliners Theatre shows are included.
SkyDome entertainment is included.
Live music around the ship is included.
Quizzes and most daytime activities are included.
Brodie’s entertainment and live sport are included.
Ocean Studios films are included.
Kids’ club activities are included for eligible ages.
The main entertainment venue that costs extra is the Limelight Club, because it combines dinner with a live performance.
Some specific activities, classes or special experiences may have an extra charge depending on the sailing, so it is always worth checking the details in the Horizon programme or onboard app.
But in general, you can enjoy a lot of entertainment on Iona without paying extra.
Best Entertainment Venue Depending on What You Want
The best entertainment venue on Iona depends on the kind of evening you want.
For the biggest shows, head to the Headliners Theatre. If you want something more modern, with lights, music and a different atmosphere, check what is happening in the SkyDome.
The Club House is the place to look for bingo, live music, talks and later-night dancing, while Brodie’s is better for quizzes, games and live sport.
For something smaller, the 710 Club is worth booking if you enjoy live music. Ocean Studios is useful if you want a quieter film night, and the Limelight Club is the option for dinner and entertainment together.
Iona works well because you are not relying on one venue every night. You can have a theatre night, a SkyDome night, a live music night or a quieter evening depending on how you feel.
Practical Tips for Entertainment on Iona
Book the Headliners Theatre shows before you sail if there is something you really want to see. Reservations usually open around 14 days before the cruise.
The 8:30pm theatre show is usually the busiest, so that is the one I would book first. If you do not have a reservation, the standby queue can still work if there are spare seats.
Book the 710 Club if you want to go, because it is a smaller venue and can fill quickly.
Arrive early for Brodie’s quizzes, Club House bingo, SkyDome shows and popular Ocean Studios screenings.
If you want to watch a SkyDome show from the upper level near the Sky Bar, get there early because the best seats go quickly.
Check the Horizon programme every day, because entertainment changes from venue to venue.
Related Guides
If you want a full breakdown of dining options on Iona, including what’s included, what costs extra, and which ones are actually worth it, you can see my Iona dining options guide here.
For a broader overview, I’ve also put together a 10 things you need to know about P&O Iona guide, which covers some of the key things that can catch people out.
If you want to compare the pool areas, sunbeds, hot tubs and The Retreat, my P&O Iona pools guide covers the SkyDome Pool, Beachcomber Pool, Panorama Pool, Infinity Pool and busy sea days.
If dining is one of the most important parts of your cruise, my P&O Iona dining options guide goes into more detail about what is included, what costs extra, and which venues are worth considering before you travel.
If you want to know where to get a drink onboard, my P&O Iona bars guide covers the main bars, lounges and outdoor drinking spots around the ship.
If you are looking at whether to book drinks, WiFi and specialty dining before you sail, my P&O All-In Package guide explains what is included and who it may suit.
P&O Iona Entertainment: Frequently Asked Questions
What entertainment is on P&O Iona?
P&O Iona has theatre shows, SkyDome shows, silent discos, guest entertainers, live music, quizzes, bingo, films, talks, sport, family activities, kids’ clubs and a dinner-and-show venue called the Limelight Club.
Does Iona have a theatre?
Yes, Iona has the Headliners Theatre across Decks 6 and 7 forward. This is the main venue for production shows, guest entertainers, singers, comedians and live performances.
Do you need to book shows on Iona?
It is worth booking Headliners Theatre shows before you sail, especially the 8:30pm performance. Reservations usually open around 14 days before the cruise. The 710 Club is also worth booking because it is a smaller venue.
What time are the theatre shows on Iona?
Theatre shows on Iona are typically held around 6:45pm, 8:30pm and 10:30pm, although times can vary depending on the sailing. The 8:30pm show is usually the busiest.
Can you get into shows without booking on Iona?
Yes, you can often join the standby queue and get in if there are spare seats. On my full sailing, I still saw spare seats in most shows, but booking in advance makes things easier.
What happens in the SkyDome at night?
The SkyDome can host silent discos, production-style shows, acrobatics, lighting effects, live music and other evening events. It is one of the main entertainment spaces on Iona.
Is the SkyDome entertainment included?
Yes, SkyDome entertainment is generally included in your cruise fare.
What is the 710 Club on Iona?
The 710 Club is a small live music venue on Deck 6 with an intimate jazz-club feel. It is one of Iona’s more tucked-away venues and is worth booking if you want to go.
Does Iona have a cinema?
Yes, Iona has Ocean Studios on Deck 6. It is a four-screen cinema showing films during the day and evening.
Does Iona have a nightclub?
Iona does not have a traditional nightclub in the old cruise ship sense, but the Club House is one of the main late-night venues, with live music, entertainment and dancing depending on the schedule.
Where are quizzes held on Iona?
Quizzes are often held in Brodie’s, although the exact venue can vary. Brodie’s can get busy for popular quizzes, so it is worth arriving early.
Is the Limelight Club included on Iona?
No, the Limelight Club is an extra-charge venue because it combines dinner with a live cabaret-style performance.
Is Iona good for evening entertainment?
Yes, Iona is good for evening entertainment if you like a mix of theatre shows, SkyDome events, live music, quizzes, cinema, guest acts and late-night venues. On my full sailing, entertainment never felt like a problem.
Is Iona good for families?
Yes, Iona is a family-friendly ship with The Reef kids’ club, The Scene teen space, SkyDome entertainment, films, family activities, pools and a Splash Zone for younger children.
Useful Cruise Items to Consider
These are a few simple items that can make your cruise more comfortable and help you stay organised onboard. I personally use variations of these when cruising, and they’re all practical rather than essential.
Magnetic hooks Perfect for extra storage in your cabin
Packing cubes Keep your suitcase organised
Cruise luggage tags Protect your tags at the port
Travel Extension Lead UK For charging multiple phones, cameras, and laptops
Toiletry organiser Great for small bathrooms
You can also browse my full Cruise Essentials list for more useful items I use or recommend for cruise holidays.
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Cruise eSIM from Saily
Buying the ship’s WiFi package isn’t the only way to stay connected during a cruise. Saily has launched a cruise eSIM that provides mobile data at sea and in supported ports, which could be worth considering if you mainly need internet access for messaging, maps and general browsing.
You can check the available plans and coverage here: Saily Cruise Esim
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Affiliate disclosure: This section contains an affiliate link. I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase through the link, at no additional cost to you. I haven’t personally tested the Saily cruise eSIM yet, so check the current coverage, data allowance and compatibility with your phone before purchasing.