Key facts
- The luxury cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey suspended operations in Cambodia.
- Soaring fuel costs were cited as the reason for the suspension.
- Approximately 200 passengers were on board when the ship stopped.
- The ship was over 750 days into its planned 3.5-year voyage.
- Monthly fuel costs per cabin in Asia have risen to $8,000 from $1,800.
The Villa Vie Odyssey, a luxury cruise ship on a 3.5-year global voyage, has suspended operations in Cambodia due to soaring fuel costs, leaving approximately 200 passengers stranded. The US-based operator is working on disembarkation and temporary accommodation plans. The ship, which departed Belfast in October 2024, was over 750 days into its journey when it stopped. The operator cited a significant increase in fuel costs, with monthly expenses per cabin in parts of Asia rising to as much as $8,000 from $1,800, making it unrealistic to pass the full increase on to residents. The company plans to spend the next 60 days on restructuring and recapitalization.