Cambodia Cruise Ship Asked Passengers for Fuel Money

A U.S.-based cruise ship, the MV Odyssey, has been stranded in Cambodia since running out of fuel. Passengers on board were repeatedly asked for additional money to cover fuel and other expenses, according to Lynn Montoya, who is traveling on the ship with her husband.

Lynn Montoya described the situation as a series of financial requests from the cruise company, including a call to raise funds for fuel to leave Cambodia. She said crew members have also not been paid due to a lack of funds and rising fuel costs.

The MV Odyssey set sail two years ago on a global trip, with suite prices starting at around $230,000. However, the ship ran into trouble in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, after running out of fuel. It remains docked there with no confirmed departure date.

Villa Vie Residences, the Florida-based operator of the MV Odyssey, stated that fuel costs have skyrocketed due to the ongoing war in Iran and the suspension of traffic in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane for oil. The company said it tried to reduce fuel consumption by slowing the itinerary and spending more time in ports, but was unable to curb the rising costs.

In a statement, Villa Vie Residences said it has been unable to continue operating at a loss and is now focusing on supporting passengers, crew, and employees. The company is working with passengers to coordinate disembarkation and find temporary living arrangements.

Passengers, including Lanette Canen and Johan Bodin, who sold a business to fund their cabin, expressed disappointment at the sudden need to leave. They said they were surprised by the eight-hour notice and are now planning to stay in Sihanoukville, Phnom Penh, and other Southeast Asian locations to adjust to their new situation.