Passengers Told to Leave Cruise Ship Due to Fuel Costs

Passengers aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey were instructed to disembark after the cruise ship, designed for continuous voyaging, was halted in Cambodia. The company cited soaring fuel costs as the reason for the unexpected stoppage.

A notice sent to passengers via internal messaging system stated that the vessel would enter a temporary layup, with all residents required to leave by 2:00 PM. Shuttles would remain available for retrieving belongings until 6:00 PM the following day.

A spokesperson for Villa Vie Residences confirmed the suspension of operations in Cambodia, attributing the issue to dramatic increases in fuel costs. The company stated that fuel expenses per cabin have risen from approximately $1,800 to $6,000–$8,000 in parts of Asia.

The company is working with residents to coordinate disembarkation and find temporary living arrangements. It acknowledged the disruption caused to residents, crew, and employees and said it is focusing on support as it works toward restructuring and recapitalization over the next 60 days.

The vessel's website promotes a continuous global voyage lasting 3.5 years, visiting 147 countries and over 425 ports. However, since February, the ship has spent progressively less time at sea, with measures taken to reduce fuel consumption failing to offset the cost increase.

Passengers, many of whom sold homes and upended their lives to join the voyage, now face uncertainty. Some, like Meredith Shay, have experienced setbacks, including the cancellation of a previous cruise and delays with the current vessel, yet continue to pursue their dream of living aboard the ship.