A luxury cruise ship on a multi‑year world voyage has suspended operations due to sharply rising fuel costs, leaving passengers stranded in Cambodia.
The U.S. operator of Villa Vie Odyssey said it is coordinating disembarkation and temporary living arrangements for the travelers.
The 200‑meter (656‑ft) vessel, capable of carrying up to 650 passengers, set out from Belfast in October 2024 for a planned 3.5‑year circumnavigation. Exact numbers are unclear, but roughly 200 guests were on board when they were ordered off.
Global fuel prices have surged since the Iran conflict began earlier this year. The operator reported that monthly fuel costs per cabin in parts of Asia have climbed to about $8,000, up from $1,800.
The company said it had taken steps to cut fuel use, including slowing the itinerary and spending extra time in port, but these measures proved insufficient to offset the dramatic cost increase. “Passing the full increase on to residents is not a realistic solution,” it added.
The operator announced a 60‑day restructuring and recapitalization period, though no outcome is assured. The suspension comes after more than 750 days of travel, meaning the ship’s passengers are now stranded in Cambodia.
Villa Vie Odyssey offers amenities such as bars, restaurants, a pool deck, and a pickleball court. Permanent cabin residencies range from $120,000 to $440,000, with rentals available from $3,500 per month.
Earlier, the ship’s departure faced delays due to repairs, leaving passengers stranded in Belfast for months and costing the company millions of pounds.
