After a delay lasting several months, passengers aboard the Villa Vie Residences ship Odyssey finally embarked on the world’s longest cruise voyage on Monday, 30th September, from Belfast in Northern Ireland.

The 650-passenger ship was scheduled to sail from Belfast last May, but issues with its rudders and gearbox kept it moored in port for the better part of five months.

Following an extensive run of sea trials, Villa Vie Residences officials announced on Friday, 27th September, that it was formally cleared by Britain’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA), as well as local public health officials, to begin its voyage.

Villa Vie Residences paid for all guests’ accommodation costs in Belfast and elsewhere in Europe as compensation for the unexpected delay.

The experience of a lifetime

The inaugural voyage is slated to run for 1,301 days, roughly around three and a half years, making it the world’s longest cruise voyage.

The Odyssey will sail to all seven continents, stopping at 425 ports, ranging from Rio de Janeiro to Singapore. 

Passengers either bought a cabin for themselves to use for the entire operational life of the ship or rented them to enjoy specific segments of the voyage.

The ship is equipped with restaurants, a pool, spa, business centre, and medical facilities.