Villa Vie Odyssey Strands 200 Residents in Cambodia

More than 200 passengers were ordered off the Villa Vie Residence’s Odyssey this week as the vessel entered a temporary layup period in Cambodia. The abrupt departure left many residents, including a Fort Worth couple, to manage their belongings and determine their next steps while the ship remains in port.

Dwight and Sheila Greene bought a cabin on the vessel last May with the intention of making it their primary home. The couple, who document their travels online, described the ship as a personal aircraft carrier that allowed them to move between locations freely. They stated that the experience had been amazing until the company announced the halt in operations.

Villa Vie attributed the decision to rising fuel costs driven by conflict in the Middle East. A company statement noted that the conflict began in late February. The company said it attempted to lower fuel consumption by slowing its itinerary and increasing time spent in port. Management concluded that these measures were insufficient to offset the increase in fuel costs, resulting in ongoing operating losses.

The Greenes are part of a group of passengers who contributed additional funds earlier this year to help keep the ship running. Dwight Greene said that most people who followed the company’s finances were aware of the issues. He noted that the company had faced challenges prior to this latest disruption, including a lawsuit filed last year that alleged the company misrepresented its financial stability.

Despite the pause, the Greenes are not casting blame. They are currently on a different cruise they had booked previously. They left their personal items on the Odyssey, a decision they say reflects their belief that the ship will resume service.

Dwight Greene expressed sadness for those who lost money or faith in the project. He stated that he remains full of hope and faith that the community of residents will survive the disruption. The couple continues to wait for further updates from Villa Vie regarding the ship’s return to sea.