Belfast's Rainy Welcome: Odyssey Cruise Passengers Embrace Unexpected Delay
Imagine signing up for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure—a three-year voyage around the globe—only to find yourself marooned in Belfast for months. That’s the reality for passengers of the Odyssey, a luxury cruise ship operated by the U.S. company Villa Vie Residences. Scheduled to depart from the Titanic Quarter in Belfast on May 30, the Odyssey has been docked there for over three months due to unexpected mechanical issues.
Originally set to launch its grand world tour, the Odyssey is facing delays caused by problems with its rudders and gearbox. The ship's passengers, who invested up to $899,000 for a cabin, are now finding themselves in an unforeseen limbo. They’re allowed to spend their days onboard, enjoying meals, entertainment, and the ship’s amenities, but they must disembark each night.
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Holly Hennessey, a retiree from Florida traveling with her cat, Captain, shares a bright outlook despite the delays. “It’s almost like cruising except we’re at the dock,” she told the BBC, adding that she’s making the most of her time in Belfast. Holly, who celebrates her 68th birthday soon, appreciates the local charm and has taken to exploring the city, from the Titanic Museum to the Giant’s Causeway. “I’ve never used my umbrella so much,” she jokes about the weather, but her spirits remain high.
Passengers like Stephen and Angela Theriac are also adapting to the situation. The Nicaraguan couple, who sold their home for this adventure, have been spending their unexpected extra time enjoying Belfast’s pubs and local cuisine. “It’s all part of the adventure,” Stephen says. Despite the ship’s delayed departure, the Theriacs have embraced their time in Belfast and have been exploring nearby cities as well.
Villa Vie Residences is working hard to manage the situation, providing passengers with hotel accommodations, meals, and daily allowances. The company’s CEO, Mike Petterson, remains optimistic about resolving the issues soon. He anticipates a successful launch within the coming week, after which the Odyssey will embark on its journey to Bremerhaven, Amsterdam, and Lisbon before heading across the Atlantic for its Caribbean segment.
The Odyssey, built in 1993, is a floating resort with an array of amenities designed to cater to its residents' every need. The ship features eight decks, multiple dining options, bars, lounges, and even a gym and spa. Despite the current delay, the company aims to deliver on its promise of a luxurious and adventurous lifestyle at sea.
The situation reflects broader challenges in the burgeoning market of residential cruise ships. The Odyssey’s delay is a reminder of the complexities involved in launching such ambitious maritime projects. However, the resilience and positivity of the passengers showcase their commitment to making the best of their extraordinary journey, regardless of the bumps along the way.
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