The Odyssey cruise ship, which was stuck in Belfast for four months, finally set sail on a 3 ½-year around-the-world voyage. Passengers were elated as the ship left dock and anchored in Belfast Lough before departing Northern Ireland’s waters. The ship underwent maintenance work at the Harland & Wolff shipyard in Belfast, where the Titanic was built. Passengers were provided with living expenses during their stay in Belfast and some even formed close bonds, with one couple getting engaged and planning to marry aboard the ship in April.
The Odyssey, built in 1993 and bought by Villa Vie Residences in 2023, offers a unique residential cruise experience where passengers can buy a cabin and live on board as the ship circles the globe. The vessel is scheduled to visit 425 ports in 147 countries on seven continents during its maiden voyage. Passengers have the option to purchase cabins for at least 15 years and can also sign up for segments of the voyage lasting weeks or months. The ship features various amenities such as a gym, spa, entertainment facilities, onboard hospital, business center, and culinary arts center.
One passenger, Cyndi Grzybowski, expressed her excitement for the voyage, stating that she had always wanted to see the world and had enjoyed her time in Belfast. Another couple, Gian Perroni and Angie Harsanyi, got engaged while waiting for the cruise to begin and plan to get married on board in April. Perroni praised the people of Belfast for their kindness and said that the experience taught them patience and perseverance. Villa Vie Residences’ chief executive, Mikael Petterson, acknowledged feeling a bit stressed as they awaited final clearance to depart and gave Belfast a mixed review, joking about the city’s weather and culinary skills.
The Odyssey’s unique concept of continuous cruising offers adventurous retirees and digital nomads the opportunity to own a home on a floating paradise. The ship’s marketing material emphasizes the luxury and convenience of living at sea, with various amenities and services to cater to passengers’ needs. Cabins, referred to as “villas,” are available for purchase starting at $99,999, with additional monthly fees for the operational life of the vessel. Passengers can enjoy the leisurely experience of traveling the world while living on board a luxurious ship with like-minded individuals. Overall, the Odyssey’s departure from Belfast marks the beginning of an exciting and unconventional journey for its passengers.
