In the iconic shipyard of Harland & Wolff in Northern Ireland, where the Titanic once took shape under the same expansive sky, a new maritime venture is preparing to make waves. Amidst the towering presence of a 12-deck Caribbean party vessel, the Villa Vie Odyssey sits in dry dock, poised for a monumental voyage.
After meticulous refurbishment and cosmetic enhancements, this 31-year-old ship is poised to revolutionize the cruise industry. Designed as one of only two residential cruise ships globally, the Villa Vie Odyssey is set to embark on an unprecedented global tour that has eluded others in the past.
With around 300 passengers, or “residents,” on board, the journey will commence from Belfast, spanning 425 ports across 147 countries and all seven continents. This ambitious itinerary promises a circumnavigation of the globe every three-and-a-half years, offering an endless summer experience for those aboard.
Unlike traditional cruise models, the Villa Vie Odyssey offers flexible options ranging from short stays to lifetime ownership, accommodating diverse preferences. Its 924-capacity allows for intimate port visits lasting from two to seven days, emphasizing quality over quantity in travel experiences.
The voyage, meticulously planned into 16 segments over 1,301 days, strategically aligns with optimal spring and summer seasons across hemispheres. For residents, it’s a promise of perpetual warmth and sunshine, with the freedom to embark or disembark at their leisure.
CEO Mikael Petterson, during a press tour of the dry dock, expressed confidence in the project’s appeal, noting high initial uptake with 270 cabins already sold. Anticipating full booking by the end of the Northern European leg, he highlighted the cautious approach taken after lessons learned from previous ventures.
In a nod to history, Villa Vie Odyssey emerged from the ashes of a failed cruise project in 2023, where passengers were left stranded due to logistical failures. Learning from these setbacks, Petterson and his team have meticulously planned and executed Villa Vie’s launch, ensuring robust financial backing and operational readiness.
The ship, purchased from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines for $13 million and further refurbished at $12 million, represents a conservative investment compared to previous attempts, underscoring its sustainable business model and viability in the market.
