Odyssey Cruise: Passengers Begin Three-and-a-Half-Year Voyage After Extended Delay in Belfast

Cruise passengers are finally set to embark on a three-and-a-half-year world voyage from Belfast on Monday, after being stranded in the city for several months due to unexpected repair works on their ship, the Odyssey. This cruise is operated by Villa Vie Residences and is billed as the world’s first continual cruise, where passengers can choose to either buy their cabins for the entire operational life of the ship or rent them for specific segments of the journey.

The Odyssey, which has a capacity of 650 passengers, was originally scheduled to depart from Northern Ireland in May. However, repairs were necessary because of issues with the ship’s rudders and gearbox, which delayed the launch. After a series of successful sea trials, the Odyssey announced via social media on Friday that it had received the necessary approvals from Britain’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA) and Public Health, and was eager to welcome its passengers aboard.

Among the hopeful travelers is John Frim from Canada, who, along with his wife Monica, opted for the cruise to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. He expressed the frustrations of waiting, stating:

“It has just been dragging on for a long time. (But) we’ve never lost faith in the concept.” His wife, Monica, echoed his sentiments, noting, “We’re not happy about the delay… but when you think in a period of three-and-a-half years, what’s four months?”

To compensate for the unforeseen delays, the cruise company took care of the guests’ accommodation expenses in Belfast and other locations in Europe.

The inaugural voyage is set to last an impressive 1 301 days, visiting all seven continents and stopping at 425 ports around the world, including destinations like Rio de Janeiro and Singapore. The Odyssey is equipped with a range of facilities, such as restaurants, a pool, a spa, a business center, and medical facilities, ensuring passengers have a comfortable experience while traveling.

Despite the extended wait in Belfast, many passengers have managed to make the most of their time in the city. Holly Hennessy, a retired American wealth manager, shared her positive experience, stating, “I will always have a fond place in my heart for Belfast. Meeting so many different kind people, living in an urban environment, being carless, and being away from American politics has been wonderful.”

Some passengers have even decided to make the Odyssey their permanent home. Melody and John Hennessee, also from the United States, expressed their intention to live aboard the ship for the rest of their lives. Additionally, others have formed unexpected connections during their stay. Canadian Gian Perroni and American Angela Harsanyi met while waiting for the repair work to be completed at the Belfast hotel where some of the passengers were staying. They recently announced their engagement, with Harsanyi stating, “It probably couldn’t get any better than that, right? We’re getting married between the Panama Canal and Costa Rica.”

Overall, the Odyssey’s long-awaited journey is not just a cruise but also a unique experience that has brought together passengers from diverse backgrounds, fostering friendships and lasting memories along the way.