In brief
The US‑based Villa Vie Venture Odyssey halted its circumnavigation after fuel prices spiked following geopolitical tensions, stranding almost 200 passengers in Cambodia. The ship’s operator announced it would keep passengers on board while seeking temporary housing and working on a recapitalisation plan. Passengers, many of whom had paid for a 3 year retreat at sea, have been forced to await further instructions, with one traveller, Holly Hennessey, expressing hope that the voyage will resume.
A luxury cruise ship on a planned 3½‑year circumnavigation paused its journey amid a sudden spike in fuel prices, leaving nearly 200 passengers stranded in the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville.
The Villa Vie Odyssey, a 656‑ft vessel capable of carrying 650 guests, had spent more than 750 days at sea before the operator announced it would suspend operations. Fuel costs in Asia allegedly rose to as much as $8,000 (£6,000) per cabin from $1,800, a jump the company said was driven by geopolitical events in the Middle East.
‘We are working closely with passengers on disembarkation plans and temporary living arrangements,’ the company said in a statement. It stated it was entering a 60‑day restructuring and recapitalisation period but could not guarantee an outcome.
The ship’s itinerary had already been cut back and the cruise line had introduced a fuel surcharge proposal, prompting some guests to disembark and travel on land. Others, like 67‑year‑old Holly Hennessey, chose to stay, citing the unique lifestyle the vessel offers.
Hennessey told reporters, ‘I never imagined I would be in Cambodia, but I won’t give up. I can’t call this life ordinary.’ She and other guests are currently housed in a local hotel while awaiting a decision.
The Villa Vie Odyssey, originally slated to visit about 150 countries, now remains stationary as it seeks a resolution. Passengers are advised to stay tuned for updates from the ship’s operators.
For those affected, a contact form is available on the company’s website. Passengers can also email the cruise line’s customer service team for assistance.
