The US cruise ship MV Odyssey has suspended its three-year global voyage in Asia, leaving 203 passengers and 156 crew members stranded at Sihanoukville port in Cambodia. The ship, with a 650-passenger capacity, has no confirmed departure date as of October 28, 2026.
Fuel Costs Drive Voyage Suspension
Villa Vie Residences, the Florida-based operator of the MV Odyssey, attributed the suspension to a sharp increase in fuel expenses. Monthly fuel costs per cabin have risen from $1,800 to an estimated $6,000 to $8,000 in Asian waters, mainly due to supply disruptions caused by the war in Iran affecting petroleum through the Strait of Hormuz. Despite
attempts to reduce fuel consumption by slowing the itinerary and extending port stays, the operator could not offset the increased expenses.
Voyage Timeline and Ship History
The MV Odyssey began its global voyage in October 2024 from Belfast, Northern Ireland, where it had been refitted. The trip was originally planned for three and a half years, with a tentative second cruise anticipated to conclude in August 2030. The vessel, built in 1993 and previously operated under various names, was purchased by Villa Vie Residences in 2023.
Official Statements and Departure Attempts
Villa Vie Residences announced on October 27, 2026, that it could no longer sustain the operating losses caused by
fuel costs. A company spokesperson said, “We have been unable to continue carrying the resulting operating losses. Passing the full increase on to residents is not a realistic solution. Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees.” The operator is coordinating with passengers to arrange disembarkation and temporary lodging.
Long Dimanche, deputy governor of Preah Sihanouk province, stated the ship arrived at Sihanoukville port last Friday before October 28. The MV Odyssey was scheduled to refuel and depart on Wednesday, then Saturday, but no official departure confirmation has come from the operator.
Passenger Experiences of Limited Support
Randy Cassingham, a passenger and blogger
aboard the MV Odyssey, reported inadequate assistance from the cruise operator. He stated, “The company has done absolutely nothing to help: we couldn’t even walk out of the port, so there were shuttle buses that dropped us in the middle of town, Sihanoukville, Cambodia.” Cassingham also noted, “They didn’t even give us a list of hotels, let alone help us get there or pay for them.” The operator declined immediate comment on the claims.
