Cruise ship MV Odyssey halts voyage in Cambodia amid soaring fuel costs

The MV Odyssey, operated by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences, paused its multi-year global cruise at the Cambodian port of Sihanoukville because fuel costs in parts of Asia have risen to an estimated $6,000-$8,000 per cabin per month, up from a historical average of $1,800. The ship, which can accommodate 650 passengers, currently carries 203 passengers, mostly Americans, and 156 crew members, according to Cambodian officials.

Villa Vie Residences said the increase is linked to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz following the war in Iran, which has tightened supplies of petroleum-based fuels in Southeast Asia. In a statement, the company said it could not continue operating at a loss and that passing the full cost to residents was not feasible. > "Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees" and the operator is coordinating disembarkation and temporary housing for those on board.

Passengers reported receiving only seven hours' notice to leave the ship and said they had to arrange their own accommodations. Some expressed disappointment with the venture’s management, citing frequent requests for additional money, unreliable internet, and declining food quality. Others remained optimistic, hoping a collective effort could purchase the vessel and continue the residential cruising concept.

The Odyssey arrived in Sihanoukville last Friday after a scheduled departure was delayed. Local authorities indicated the ship might refuel and leave on Saturday, though the operator has not confirmed a new departure date. The vessel, built in 1993 and previously operated under different names, was purchased by Villa Vie Residences in 2023 and began its current cruise in October 2024, originally planned to last three and a half years.