A US-based residential cruise ship that promised passengers permanent life at sea has suspended its global voyage in Cambodia due to soaring fuel costs, forcing hundreds of passengers who invested in the project to leave the vessel while the company seeks solutions for the ship’s future.

The MV Odyssey, operated by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, was launched as a residential cruise project offering passengers the chance to travel the world while living aboard the ship for an extended period.

The vessel began its planned three-and-a-half-year journey two years ago, with a route covering seven continents. Unlike traditional cruise ships designed for short holidays, MV Odyssey was promoted as a floating residence where passengers could combine international travel with permanent accommodation.

Long-term sea living project faces financial crisis

Villa Vie Residences marketed the ship’s suites as residences that could be used throughout the vessel’s operational life, with prices starting at around $230,000.

The company attracted passengers who were looking for an alternative lifestyle, offering them the opportunity to avoid a conventional home-based life and instead live while travelling between countries.

The project was designed to provide residents with a continuous global journey, but rising operating expenses have placed the company under significant financial pressure.

Hundreds of passengers forced to leave vessel

The MV Odyssey was docked at Sihanoukville Port on Cambodia’s Gulf of Thailand coast after suspending its operations.

Cambodian officials said the vessel was carrying 203 passengers, mostly US citizens, along with 156 crew members.

The ship, which has a capacity of around 650 passengers, was scheduled to continue its route after a short stop in Cambodia. However, passengers were asked to leave the vessel while the company worked on solutions regarding the ship’s future operations.

The date for the ship’s return to service remains uncertain.

Fuel costs rise several times over

Villa Vie Residences said the suspension was caused by the rapid increase in fuel expenses, which significantly affected the company’s operating costs.

The company stated that fuel expenses, which had previously averaged around $1,800 per cabin per month, increased to between $6,000 and $8,000 in some parts of Asia.

The operator said it attempted to reduce costs by slowing the ship’s speed and extending stays at ports, but these measures were not enough to compensate for the increase in expenses.

In a statement, the company said it could no longer absorb the growing operational losses and that transferring all additional costs to passengers would not be a realistic solution.

Villa Vie Residences said it was focusing on supporting passengers, crew members and employees while working on restructuring plans. The company also said it was making arrangements to assist passengers with leaving the ship and finding temporary accommodation.

Passengers criticize lack of assistance

Randy Cassingham, a blogger travelling aboard the MV Odyssey, claimed that passengers did not receive sufficient support from the company after being asked to leave the vessel.

Cassingham said passengers could not easily leave the port area on foot and had to use shuttle services to reach the city centre.

He also claimed that the company did not provide passengers with adequate hotel options or assistance with transportation and accommodation expenses.

Villa Vie Residences has not provided a detailed public response to the allegations.

Preah Sihanouk Deputy Governor Long Dimanche said the ship was expected to leave Cambodia after refuelling. However, the operator has not yet announced a definite departure date.(ILKHA)