Cruise company founder says he's 'the villain' after 200-plus passengers are stranded
The cruise ship captain of the Villa Vie Odyssey calls the forced disembarkation in Cambodia "really painful" as over 200 residents now face an uncertain future.
TL;DR
- Over 200 residents were forced to disembark the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, due to a critical fuel shortage.
- The ship's operator cited soaring fuel costs as the reason for suspending its around-the-world voyage, making operations financially unsustainable.
- Mikael Petterson, founder of Villa Vie Residences, expressed regret and stated he feels like 'the villain' but is trying to find a solution.
- Residents had paid substantial amounts, including $299,999 for single occupancy, for lifetime access to the ship.
- Captain Emanuele Giudice explained that fuel shortages necessitated shutting down non-essential services, leading to the request for residents to leave.
- Some passengers reported receiving only seven hours' notice to leave, contrary to the captain's statement of over 24 hours.
- Residents expressed feelings of devastation, shock, and concern about becoming homeless.
- The company had marketed the Odyssey as a retirement alternative, appealing to those concerned about inflation and rising living costs.