Cruise Ship Suspension: Fuel Costs Halt Residential Voyage

The Odyssey ceased its residential world cruise in Cambodia after fuel expenses surged, forcing residents to leave the vessel.

The ship departed Florida two years ago for a planned three-year journey across seven continents. Villa Vie Residences, the Florida-based operator, reported that monthly fuel costs per cabin typically averaged $1,800. During the conflict in Iran, those estimates climbed to between $6,000 and $8,000 in certain Asian regions. The company stated it tried to limit fuel usage by slowing the itinerary and staying in port longer. Those measures failed to balance the increased operating losses.

The company said it could not pass the entire cost increase to residents. "Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees" during the restructuring process. Sihanoukville Autonomous Port confirmed the ship arrived on Oct. 23 for a five-day stay. The vessel was scheduled to proceed to Vietnam but remained at the dock as of Wednesday.

The Odyssey carried 203 passengers from 15 nations, primarily United States citizens, along with 156 crew members. The ship holds up to 650 residents. Passengers received instructions to depart the vessel. The status of the crew remains undetermined.

The company maintained a confirmed schedule through November 2027. It also planned to launch a second residential ship in early 2029. The statement regarding the suspension did not specify the future of that second vessel.