US Cruise Ship Abandons World Voyage in Cambodia Over Soaring Fuel Costs

The U.S. cruise ship Odyssey, two years into a three-year residential world voyage, has suspended its operations in Cambodia because of escalating fuel costs. The decision forces the ship's 203 passengers, primarily Americans, to abandon their floating homes.

The Florida-based company, Villa Vie Residences, cited a surge in monthly fuel expenses, which have reportedly risen from an average of $1,800 per cabin to between $6,000 and $8,000 in parts of Asia, exacerbated by the conflict in Iran. The company stated that it had attempted to mitigate these costs by reducing the ship's speed and extending port stays but was ultimately unable to offset the financial burden.

"We have been unable to continue carrying the resulting operating losses," Villa Vie Residences said in a statement. "Passing the full increase on to residents is not a realistic solution. Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees" as the company explores restructuring options.

The Odyssey docked at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port on October 23 for a planned five-day visit. Although scheduled to depart for Vietnam, the ship remained in port as of Wednesday. The status of the 156 crew members remains unclear, while passengers have been informed they must leave the vessel.

Initially marketed as a way to combine long-term living at sea with global travel, the Odyssey had a confirmed itinerary extending into November 2027. The company had also planned to introduce a second residential cruise ship in early 2029, though the current announcement does not address the future of that project. The ship had a capacity for 650 residents.