Copy of Copy of Master Template NewHigh Fuel Costs Force U.S. Cruise Ship to Suspend Three-Year World Voyage

A US cruise ship on a continuous around-the-world voyage suspended operations in Cambodia after a sharp increase in fuel costs, forcing more than 200 passengers to leave the vessel, CBS News reported.

Villa Vie Residences’ MV Odyssey suspended its around-the-world voyage in Cambodia after a surge in fuel expenses put pressure on the company’s operating model. [Photo: Villa Vie Residences Facebook]

The MV Odyssey began its voyage in 2024, offering passengers the option of living aboard the ship while visiting destinations across the world.

Its operator, Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, had marketed the vessel as a floating home, with long-term residency options.

The ship was docked at the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand after the company announced the suspension. Cambodian officials said it was carrying 203 passengers, mostly Americans, and 156 crew members.

The vessel has a capacity of 650 passengers.

Villa Vie Residences said monthly fuel expenses that had historically averaged about $1,800 per cabin had recently climbed to an estimated $6,000 to $8,000 in parts of Asia.

The company attributed the increase to the war in Iran and the resulting rise in fuel costs.

The operator said it had tried to reduce consumption by slowing the itinerary and spending more time in port. Those measures, however, were not enough to offset the higher expenses.

In its announcement, Villa Vie said the increased costs had placed its operating model under severe financial pressure.

The company said it was pursuing restructuring and recapitalization options while coordinating with passengers over their disembarkation and temporary accommodation.