The MV Odyssey set sail from Sihanoukville, Cambodia, on Tuesday night carrying only its crew and support staff. The vessel, which can accommodate up to 650 guests, had been forced to abandon its three‑year around‑the‑world itinerary after a sharp rise in fuel prices made the cruise financially untenable.
Passenger evacuation and crew‑only departure
According to Tang Sochetkresna, director of the Tourism Department of Preah Sihanouk province, the ship’s 203 passengers were told on Oct. 28 that they must disembark within a few hours. Nearly 100 passengers remained in Sihanoukville, while the rest dispersed to other parts of Cambodia or continued onward to different countries. Most of those on board were Americans.
After the evacuation, the Odyssey left the port late Tuesday with its 156‑member crew and other personnel. Officials did not disclose the ship’s next destination.
Fuel costs and operational strain
Villa Vie Residences, the Florida‑based company that owns the Odyssey, cited an unprecedented surge in fuel expenses as the primary cause of the suspension. Monthly fuel costs per cabin, which historically averaged about $1,800, have reportedly climbed to $6,000‑$8,000 in parts of Asia due to the war in Iran and related disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.
The company attempted to mitigate the expense by slowing the itinerary and extending port stays, but the measures were insufficient to offset the rising costs.
Financial impact on passengers
Several travelers said they paid more than $300,000 for a lifetime suite on the ship. Passengers also reported that Villa Vie had been requesting additional contributions for months in an effort to keep the vessel operating, sparking debate on social media about the financial viability of the floating‑home concept.
Future of the Odyssey
There has been no official announcement regarding the ship’s future plans. Media reports suggest a creditor may have taken control of the vessel’s management and could be steering it toward Singapore, a major maritime hub in Southeast Asia.
The Odyssey, built in 1993 and previously operated under various names, was purchased by Villa Vie Residences in 2023 and refurbished in Belfast, Northern Ireland, before beginning its current cruise in October 2024. A second cruise and a sister ship were already slated for launch.
Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.
