How Did a Broken Rudder Turn a Cruise Into a Belfast Staycation for Hundreds

Image Name: Villa Vie Residences

An unforeseen turn of events has resulted in guests on a highly anticipated round-the-world cruise being unable to go on their adventure due to mechanical difficulties with their ship. As a result, they have been stranded in Belfast, Northern Ireland, for a period of three months. A significant number of passengers have been forced to adjust to an unexpected stay as a result of this unanticipated delay, which has transformed Belfast from a brief stop into a temporary residence.

The cruise ship, Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey, arrived at Queen’s Island in Belfast in late May, scheduled for a brief stop to be outfitted before embarking on a three-year global voyage. The ship was set to leave Belfast on May 30 for the first leg of its journey, but it has remained docked ever since. The cause? Serious issues with its rudders and gearbox, which have prevented the vessel from setting sail.

For the passengers, many of whom had been eagerly awaiting this voyage, the delay was a disappointment. Among them is Holly Hennessey, a Florida resident who describes herself as a “cruise addict.” Hennessey, who brought along her cat, Captain, for the journey, has had to adapt to life in Belfast, making the city her unexpected home while waiting for the ship to be ready.

Life in Belfast

Despite the initial disappointment, many passengers have adjusted to their new surroundings, finding ways to make the most of their extended stay in Belfast. During the day, they are allowed to spend time on the ship, enjoying the amenities it offers. Hennessey noted that while they can stay on the ship during the day, they must disembark in the evenings. “We can spend all day aboard the ship, and they provide shuttle buses to get on and off,” she explained. “We can have all of our meals, and they even have movies and trivia entertainment, almost like cruising except we’re at the dock.”

While Belfast has offered its own charms, the weather has been a bit of a shock for those unaccustomed to the city’s damp climate. Hennessey, accustomed to Florida’s sunshine, has found herself using her umbrella more than ever before. “I’ve never had so much use for my umbrella in my life, and I carry my raincoat everywhere I go,” she remarked.

An Investment in a Unique Lifestyle

The passengers on Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey are not just casual travelers; many have invested heavily in the experience, opting to buy their cabins outright rather than paying a daily rate. This unique arrangement allows them to remain on board beyond the initial three-year tour, turning the cruise into a long-term lifestyle choice. Hennessey is among those who have fully committed to this way of life. Her cabin, which she purchased for a significant sum, is equipped with a double bed, a small living area, and a balcony—plenty of space for both her and her cat. “I want to stay just as long as I am able,” she said, expressing her long-held dream of living on a ship. “It will be a dream come true for me.”

The company behind the cruise, Villa Vie Residences, offers cabins ranging from $99,999 to $899,000. The company prides itself on creating a community atmosphere on board, where passengers can bring pets and enjoy the comforts of home while sailing the world.

Making the Most of the Delay

While the delay has been frustrating for some, others have taken the opportunity to explore and enjoy their time in Belfast and beyond. Angela and Stephen Theriac, a couple who previously lived in Nicaragua, have made the most of their unexpected stay. Since arriving in Belfast, they have taken the opportunity to travel around Europe, visiting Spain, England, and even Greenland. “We are travelers, and we want to make the most of the place we are in,” Angela Theriac explained. The couple has embraced their time in Belfast, joking that they might even apply for residency if the delay continues. Stephen Theriac added, “We have eaten in every restaurant and had a Guinness in every pub. It is just all part of our adventure.” Another passenger, Dr. David Austin from Georgia, USA, has taken the delays in stride, refusing to let the setbacks dampen his enthusiasm for the journey ahead. “The payoff of seeing the world in this fashion is too great to feel too disappointed with each delay announcement,” he said. Having sold his house before embarking on this adventure, Dr. Austin is fully committed to the voyage, regardless of the delays.

A Company’s Commitment

Despite the setbacks, Villa Vie Residences remains optimistic about the future of the Odyssey. CEO Mike Petterson has assured passengers that the ship will be ready to set sail soon, with the latest updates suggesting that the launch could happen by the end of next week. “We’re not focused on the next days or weeks, we are focused on the rest of our lives and what this company will do for the residents and the industry,” Petterson stated.

He also emphasized that the Odyssey is the first “affordable” residential cruise ship of its kind, and with such an innovative project, some hiccups are to be expected. “When you’re the first at doing something, you will run into hiccups, but we’re definitely getting there, and although we are late, we will launch,” he added. As the passengers continue to wait, their stories reflect a mixture of patience, resilience, and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. For now, Belfast remains their temporary home, and they are making the most of their time in the city as they look forward to the adventure that still lies ahead.

For more information, visit BBC’s comprehensive article