They’re Off! Endless World Cruise Starts After Prolonged Shipyard Delay

The “Endless World Cruise” has officially begun! After months of preparation, a special group of passengers is ready to live on a cruise ship for three-and-a-half years, traveling the world. This unique adventure is being organized by Villa Vie Residence, which is using a 30-year-old cruise ship named Odyssey (24,000 gross tons). The ship left its dock in Belfast, Northern Ireland, after a long refit period to prepare for the journey.

The Odyssey’s first destination is Brest, France, and passengers, who have been staying in hotels and rented apartments since May, are thrilled to finally begin their journey. They had some time aboard the ship in recent weeks to get used to their new home, but the ship was delayed by repairs and paperwork.

Built in Spain in 1993, the Odyssey started as a small cruise ship called Crown Dynasty and was operated by several companies, including Cunard and Norwegian Cruise Line, during the 1990s. It became popular when it was operated by Fred. Olsen Cruises as the Braemar, especially after being extended by 102 feet (31 meters) in 2008, allowing it to take unique trips, such as passing through the Corinth Canal in Greece.

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However, getting the ship ready for its new life as a floating home hasn’t been easy. Villa Vie spent more time and money than expected on its refurbishment at the Harland & Wolff shipyard. Problems like worn rudder posts, which had to be replaced, caused delays. Villa Vie also had to make changes, such as moving the crew accommodations to create space for up to 650 residents.

Despite these challenges, the company is moving forward, selling long-term leases for cabins aboard the ship. Some residents have sold their homes and redesigned their cabins to make them feel more personal and cozy. Villa Vie is also allowing people to book shorter segments of the cruise, giving others a chance to experience life on a floating home.

While other companies have tried to convert cruise ships into floating residences, Villa Vie’s Odyssey is the first to succeed. A similar project, The World, was launched years ago, but it was a newly built ship designed specifically for living on board. Villa Vie’s Odyssey offers a different approach, transforming an older cruise ship into a luxurious home for those ready to explore the world by sea.