MV Odyssey Cruise Suspends Journey in Cambodia Due to Rising Fuel Costs
The MV Odyssey, a U.S. cruise ship on an international voyage, has halted its travel at the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port in southern Cambodia as of October 29, 2026. The ship, which had been on a three-year sailing journey marketed as permanent floating homes, is grounded due to escalating fuel costs.
Two years ago, the Odyssey embarked on a worldwide voyage, offering cabins as lifetime residences at starting prices of $230,000. Now, with 203 passengers and 156 crew members onboard, the ship remains docked without a planned departure.
Villa Vie Residences, the Florida-based operator, cited surging fuel costs as the reason for suspension. Historically, fuel expenses per cabin averaged $1,800 monthly, but have skyrocketed to between $6,000 and $8,000 in Asia, impacted by the conflict in Iran. Reduced availability and increased costs of petroleum-based fuels, especially in Southeast Asia, have led to significant financial strain.
“We have been unable to continue carrying the resulting operating losses,” said Villa Vie Residences in a statement. “Passing the full increase on to residents is not a realistic solution. Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees as we try to restructure.”
Passengers, including retired couple Paul and Lynn Montoya, faced abrupt disembarkation with only seven hours’ notice, lamenting the lack of support. Many residents previously departed due to itinerary changes, unreliable internet, and food quality issues.
Lynn Montoya shared frustration over repeated requests for extra funds to cover fuel and other costs, with crew members reportedly unpaid. “We were tired of every two to four weeks being asked for money,” she said.
Despite these challenges, some residents cherished the rare opportunity of living at sea. Sisters Carol Larson and Crystal Lavering, aboard for 18 months, expressed hopes for a continuation of the venture.
Larson commented, “I hope there is a movement for residents to buy the ship… I don’t want it to end.”
The ship’s voyage commenced in Northern Ireland in 2024, with plans for another cruise until 2030. Built in 1993 and rebranded over the years, the Odyssey had initially set sail from Belfast post-pandemic refitting.
Sihanoukville previously hosted another cruise ship in crisis during early 2020. The MS Westerdam, turned away by other ports due to COVID-19 fears, docked in Cambodia. Former Prime Minister Hun Sen allowed docking for humanitarian reasons, allowing passengers to return home.