The cruise ship MV Odyssey, marketed as a residential vessel for long-term living, has suspended its voyage in Sihanoukville, Cambodia, due to surging fuel costs. The disruption has left over 200 passengers, primarily Americans, to seek their own accommodations on land while the ship’s future remains uncertain. Operated by the Florida-based company Villa Vie Residences, the ship was promoted as a “permanent home” at sea. Residents purchased cabins for the duration of the ship’s lifespan, with prices starting at approximately $230,000, plus monthly maintenance fees. The vessel, which has a capacity of 650 passengers, currently carries 203 residents and 156 crew members. According to Villa Vie Residences, the company has faced significant financial strain as fuel costs for certain routes in Asia rose from an average of $1,800 per cabin to between $6,000 and $8,000, a spike the company attributed to regional instability. The operator stated that it attempted to mitigate costs by slowing the itinerary and extending port stays, but ultimately found the price increases unsustainable. “Passing the full increase on to our passengers is not realistic,” the company said in a statement, adding that it is working to coordinate disembarkation and temporary housing for those on board. However, passengers have disputed the company’s claims regarding support. Several travelers reported that they were given only seven hours’ notice on Tuesday to vacate the ship and were forced to secure their own lodging without assistance. Paul and Lynn Montoya, retirees from Wyoming who have lived on the ship for 17 months, expressed frustration with the management. Paul Montoya suggested that while fuel costs were cited as the primary issue, the company had struggled with financial sustainability for some time. He noted that previous issues, including frequent itinerary changes, unreliable internet, and declining food quality, had already led many residents to leave the vessel. Lynn Montoya added that residents were frequently asked for additional contributions to cover fuel and other expenses, and alleged that crew members had not been receiving their wages. Long Dimanche, deputy governor of Preah Sihanouk province, stated that the ship is expected to refuel and depart on Saturday. However, the operator has not yet confirmed a departure date. The vessel, built in 1993, has operated under various names and owners over the decades. It was idled during the COVID-19 pandemic before being acquired by Villa Vie Residences in 2023. The current voyage, which began in Belfast in October 2024, was intended to last three and a half years, with the overall project scheduled to run until 2030.