Villa Vie Residences has postponed the launch of its world cruise, with the Villa Vie Odyssey now departing from Belfast instead of Southampton.
- Originally scheduled to depart on May 15, the cruise will now commence on May 30 to incorporate key enhancements and safety measures.
- The ship is undergoing substantial refurbishments to elevate the passenger experience to modern standards.
- A new departure plan has been established following the acquisition of a long-term loan by Villa Vie Residences.
- Passengers will have opportunities to tour the ship while it remains docked in Belfast.
In a significant shift, Villa Vie Residences has delayed the much-anticipated launch of its residential world cruise by a fortnight. Initially set to depart from Southampton, the Villa Vie Odyssey will now embark on its journey from Belfast on May 30. This decision comes as the company prioritises integrating operational enhancements aimed at boosting the safety and overall experience for its residents.
The vessel entered dry dock in Northern Ireland on April 28, following a long-term loan secured by Villa Vie Residences from the Norwegian maritime fund manager NRP Maritime Asset Management. These funds are being utilised to perform extensive refurbishments on the former Fred Olsen ship Braemar, which first entered service 31 years ago. The renovations are part of the company’s commitment to cater to the sophisticated needs of modern travellers.
According to the company, the rescheduled departure is a necessary adjustment to uphold the highest standards of service and safety. Mikael Petterson, the CEO, expressed excitement about the new launch date and enhancements, stating that the delay is aimed at ensuring an exceptional experience for residents. He commented, “The delay in departure is a necessary operational adjustment aimed at upholding the highest standards of service and safety.”
As part of the preparations, Villa Vie Residences has established a dedicated hotline to assist with any concerns related to the rescheduled departure. The company has also committed to covering all change fees incurred by passengers due to the new departure date, reflecting its customer-focused approach.
Passengers interested in previewing the onboard amenities before the ship sets sail can attend tours at the Belfast port. The Villa Vie Odyssey promises a transformative journey across seven continents, covering over 425 ports in 147 countries. This offers a unique opportunity for residents to enjoy a luxurious lifestyle as they circumnavigate the globe.
The delay in Villa Vie Odyssey’s departure ensures enhanced safety and a refined travel experience for its residents.