Iona - the chefs table

[terrierjohn]

Is the chefs table area totally separate from the Beach House area, and just how big is the area?

Although it seems a reasonable idea from P&O, if it significantly reduces the buffet area on formal nights, then it is rather pushing passengers to follow the dress code, if they want to enjoy a reasonable dinner. Although of course on Iona they do also have the Quays as a non formal venue.

[jaydee6969]

5 minutes ago, terrierjohn said:

Is the chefs table area totally separate from the Beach House area, and just how big is the area?

Although it seems a reasonable idea from P&O, if it significantly reduces the buffet area on formal nights, then it is rather pushing passengers to follow the dress code, if they want to enjoy a reasonable dinner. Although of course on Iona they do also have the Quays as a non formal venue.

 

Beach House was Starboard side, and Chef's table was Port side.  When on Iona and Arvia in the future we will be advance booking Olive Grove or 6th Street diner for formal nights if we decide to not dress up.  However, now we know its a pita to visit Horizon on black tie night, we will plan ahead.  We didn't want to visit the quays again on that night.

[Somerset Cruiser]

1 hour ago, jaydee6969 said:

 

Our party walked through in normal evening casual to get to the buffet, only to find how much space was set aside for the chef's table, with limited seating left for casual diners.  Plus the offering in the buffet seemed to be reduced.  Then another walk back through the set aside area to return to the Sky Dome, where we could sit reasonably close together.

 

Another minor whinge from me, was we returned at 10.00PM from our star gazing excursion in Tenerife and of course the buffet is shut between 9.30 and 11.00PM.

You had to wait a whole hour for food?

[jaydee6969]

12 minutes ago, Somerset Cruiser said:

You had to wait a whole hour for food?

 

When at any other time food is available instantly.  And for your information, I personally was knackered and ready to turn in for the night.  Each to their own, no judgment here.

Edited November 28, 2022 by jaydee6969

[TigerB]

13 hours ago, Ravensbourne1960 said:

I didn't see any point in dressing up in black tie just to sit in the buffet, with people wandering past wearing shorts and flipflops to get their hamburger and chips.

I see what you mean.  Is is too much to ask that P&O have armed security in that area to keep the great unwashed out?🙄😉