Cruise Ship Passengers On Round-the-World Trip Stranded In Ireland For Past 3 Months Due To Infrastructure Issues

Passengers on the Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey cruise ship have been stranded for more than three months due to a series of technical problems that have delayed the ship’s departure from Belfast.

The ship, which was supposed to sail for a three-year cruise worldwide on May 30, 2024, is still docked due to rudder and gearbox issues.

Many guests, expecting an unforgettable journey at sea, have had to adapt to life on the docked ship. Some passengers chose to stay on the Odyssey, while others were sent home or rerouted to other trips by the cruise line.

David Austin, who sold his Georgia house to go on the cruise, is among those waiting. Despite the uncertainty, Austin has maintained a good attitude, seeing the delays as minor setbacks compared to the idea of touring the world in such a unique style.

Another passenger, Holly Hennessey, a Florida native, is also trying to make the best of the situation. She had planned to travel with her cat and has been unable to leave Belfast while waiting for the ship to depart.

According to Hennessey, the experience has been “almost like cruising,” but on the dock, with passengers enjoying meals, movies, and trivia games on board.

Other travellers have accepted their temporary stay in Belfast. Angela and Stephen Theriac, originally from Nicaragua, joked about applying for residence because of their extended stay. The couple, trying to make the most of their time, has visited local restaurants and pubs and even taken vacations throughout Europe while waiting.

The delays began when it was discovered that the Odyssey, a 30-year-old ship, required major repairs, including rudder repair, massive steel reinforcement, and engine overhauls.

A Villa Vie Residences representative revealed that the cruise operator is in the final stages of preparing the ship for departure, which will take place next week.

The planned route includes stops in Bremerhaven, Amsterdam, and Lisbon before crossing the Atlantic to begin the Caribbean segment.

The cruise line is working to address passenger dissatisfaction by booking alternate cruises, day trips, and hotel accommodations.

Reference: TOI, BBC

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