The MV Odyssey, a U.S.-based cruise ship that had its operations suspended, has departed Cambodia with only crew members aboard, according to Cambodian officials.
The ship, owned by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, was on a three-year around-the-world cruise when it halted its journey because of surging fuel costs. It had been docked at the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville when its 203 passengers were instructed to disembark on October 28.
Most of the passengers were Americans, and many had paid upwards of $300,000 for lifetime suites. Nearly 100 passengers remained in Sihanoukville, while others had traveled to different parts of Cambodia or moved on to other countries.
The ship left Sihanoukville late Tuesday with its crew and personnel. Tang Sochetkresna, director of the Tourism Department of Preah Sihanouk province, stated that the ship's next destination was unknown. Media reports suggested a creditor had taken over management and was sailing the vessel to Singapore, a major maritime hub in Southeast Asia.
Villa Vie Residences cited a significant increase in monthly fuel expenses, which historically averaged $1,800 per cabin but had risen to an estimated $6,000 to $8,000 in parts of Asia. The company stated it attempted to mitigate costs by reducing speed and extending port stays but could not offset the escalating expenses. The company also mentioned that traffic curtailments in the Strait of Hormuz due to the war in Iran had squeezed petroleum-based fuel supplies, particularly in Southeast Asia, leading to sharp price increases.
Passengers had previously reported that the company had been soliciting contributions to keep the ship operational for several months, and discussions on social media questioned the vessel's financial viability.
The MV Odyssey, built in 1993, had operated under various names before being acquired by Villa Vie Residences in 2023. Its current cruise began in October 2024 in Belfast, Northern Ireland, after undergoing refitting. Plans for a second cruise and the purchase of an additional ship were previously announced.