More than 900 passengers on a cruise ship stuck in Belfast port for 3 months: the ship was supposed to sail around the world in three years

Since May 30, passengers on a cruise ship have been stuck in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The ship was supposed to sail around the world and visit nearly 150 countries.

Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey was set to begin a three-year voyage across 147 countries, with Belfast (Northern Ireland) as its first port of call. However, major technical problems, particularly with the rudders and gearbox, have kept the vessel in Northern Ireland since May 30.

"It's almost like a cruise, except we're docked", passenger Holly Hennessey describes, before explaining to the BBC : “I have never needed my umbrella more. I take my raincoat everywhere I go”

929 passengers, mostly Americans, who paid between $99,000 and $899,999 for their cabins, must live on board without knowing when the ship will be able to leave again. They do, however, have access to the ship's three restaurants, five bars and pool.

A Compensation

As compensation, the company has offered alternatives such as hotel stays, replacement cruises and shore excursions. Mikael Petterson, the company's CEO, mentioned in an email that trips to destinations such as Spain, Liverpool and Amsterdam have been offered.

Despite the inconvenience, some passengers have taken advantage of the situation. Angela and Stephen Theriac, for example, have explored Spain, England and even Greenland. “We are travellers and we want to make the most of where we are”, Angela said. “We have eaten in every restaurant and had a Guinness in every pub”, Stephen added. For them, this adventure continues despite the unexpected.