Cruises: Passengers Left Stranded at Port as Odyssey Seeks Reactivation

Monday, 2 September 2024, 18:10

Cruises are facing unforeseen delays as passengers on the Odyssey round-the-world voyage remain stuck at port. The Odyssey cruise ship, purchased by Villa Vie Residences, was meant to set sail in May but has been immobilized in Belfast due to mechanical issues. Passengers are required to disembark each evening and stay in hotels while awaiting updates on the vessel's status.

Business Insider — Cruises: Passengers Left Stranded at Port as Odyssey Seeks Reactivation

Cruises Facing Delays

Passengers looking to embark on a 3 ½-year round-the-world voyage on Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey cruise ship have been left hanging for the past three months. In December, the company announced it had bought Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' Braemar vessel, which it later named Odyssey.

The Planned Itinerary

The ship, which is more than 30 years old, was meant to set sail in May. On the planned 1301-day journey, the cruise liner is set to visit 147 countries across seven continents, including destinations such as France, Mexico, and Japan, according to Villa Vie Residences' itinerary.

Mechanical Issues

However, mechanical problems have left the Odyssey stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland, instead. Sebastian Stokkendal, a marketing manager for Villa Vie Residences, stated the company is working diligently to reactivate the vessel.

Passenger Experience

While they await updates on the ship’s status, passengers are required to disembark each evening and stay in hotels, incurring unexpected expenses and frustration.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.