The residential ship's planned three-and-a-half-year journey across 150 countries came to an abrupt halt after skyrocketing fuel costs crippled operations, surging from $1,800 to $8,000 per cabin monthly in parts of Asia. About 200 passengers had already been forced to disembark in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, before the empty vessel was placed under arrest in Singapore on Sunday morning. The venture had suffered prolonged disruptions since its delayed departure from Belfast in October 2024, including unpaid vendors and itinerary cuts. While the operator sought funds from guests to prevent detention, creditors are now managing the remaining crew onboard.
Key points
Villa Vie Residences suffered complete financial collapse after facing severe fuel price…: Villa Vie Residences suffered complete financial collapse after facing severe fuel price increases and recurring operational issues.
Vessel creditors have assumed responsibility for crew welfare while the arrested ship sit…: Vessel creditors have assumed responsibility for crew welfare while the arrested ship sits idle in Singapore port waters.
Long-term residents who paid substantial cabin rental or ownership fees face severe uncer…: Long-term residents who paid substantial cabin rental or ownership fees face severe uncertainty following the terminated global voyage.
Sources checked by our analysis pipeline: 1
- Published
A round-the-world cruise that left passengers stranded in Cambodia after its US-based operator ran out of money has been seized in Singapore.
The Odyssey, which was meant to take guests on a years-long voyage around the world, was placed under arrest on Sunday morning, Singapore's court records show. Local port authorities say the vessel is "currently anchored in Singapore port waters".
Around 200 guests were forced to leave the ship last month in the Cambodian port city of Sihanoukville, after its owner Villa Vie Residences abruptly suspended operations citing "extraordinary increases in fuel costs".
The crew onboard are "reported to be well", says Singapore's port authority.
"Arrangements for their welfare and wellbeing are being managed by the vessel's creditors," AFP news agency reported the authority saying.
There were no passengers on board, it added.
Singapore law firm Helmsman LLC has been named the "arresting solicitor", but it is not clear which party it represents.
The Odyssey, which set off from Belfast in October 2024, was meant to go on a three-and-a-half-years voyage covering 150 countries.
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