Around 200 passengers, including a retired couple from Wyoming, U.S., were forced to disembark the Odyssey cruise ship in Cambodia with little notice this week after operator Villa Vie Residences announced it had "suspended operations." The ship, which began a continuous voyage from Northern Ireland in October 2024, left passengers in Sihanoukville with only seven hours to pack their belongings.
Paul and Lynn Montoya, who invested $179,000 for their cabin and have since paid an additional $450,000 in unexpected costs, described their experience as a "dream" that rapidly deteriorated. Villa Vie cited rising fuel prices as the reason for operational difficulties, claiming per-cabin monthly fuel expenses had increased from an average of $1,800 to an estimated $6,000 to $8,000 in parts of Asia.
The company had previously requested significant loans from residents, including a collective $2.2 million from 22 residents, with promises of repayment with interest. However, these payments were not made, according to Mrs. Montoya. Further requests for funds, totaling $1.5 million in September and an additional $360,000 in the past week while stranded in Cambodia, were met with resistance from many passengers.
Passengers reported a decline in onboard services, including intermittent internet and television, and deteriorating food quality. Crew members also indicated their payments were stalled, prompting some residents to voluntarily contribute funds to support them. The Montoyas stated they were able to give 128 crew members at least $100 each.
Villa Vie Residences released a statement acknowledging the difficult period and stated they were working to coordinate disembarkation and identify temporary living arrangements. However, Mrs. Montoya claimed that residents received no support upon disembarking, with some elderly passengers forced to find their own accommodation. The couple, who run a blog detailing their travels, were able to find a hotel with about 40 other travelers.
The Montoyas expressed disappointment over the lack of communication from the company since leaving the ship, stating they have received no updates. Despite the setback, they plan to continue their travels and have booked a flight to Kuala Lumpur.
The Odyssey, built in 1993, has previously sailed under several cruise lines, including Cunard and Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. Villa Vie is reportedly seeking an investor, and owner Mikael Petterson expressed feeling "awful" about the situation and his commitment to assisting the stranded passengers.