Residential world cruise ship legally detained in Singapore

The Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship has been legally detained in Singapore amid ongoing financial issues.

Odyssey was stranded in Cambodia on 27 October after cruise operator Villa Vie Residences unexpectedly suspended operations, citing an increase in fuel costs.

The residential vessel left Cambodia, sailing out of Sihanoukville with no passengers on board and a crew of around 50, on 8 November.

According to court records, Odyssey was listed “under sheriff’s arrest” at 10.34am local time on Sunday morning at Changi General Purpose Anchorage off Singapore’s east coast.

Singaporean law firm Helmsman LLC is listed as the arresting solicitor, likely representing a fuel supplier, reported CBS News.

A ship arrest is a legal procedure where a court detains a marine vessel until a legal claim is settled— such as unpaid fuel or port fees.

Once a ship is arrested, it cannot sail until the owner provides a payment or a judicial sale is made of the vessel.

Ahead of its launch, Villa Vie promised an around-the-world sail starting in October 2024, visiting more than 425 ports in 147 destinations over three and a half years.

Problems have plagued this ship, casting a shadow over the pioneering cruise when the new residents endured four months in 2024 stuck in Belfast after a string of last-minute repairs.

The ship had been cruising the world for at least 755 days when its 200 passengers were given just eight hours to disembark.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore told Business Insider: “The vessel has been placed under arrest pursuant to a court order.

“The crew onboard are reported to be well, and arrangements for their welfare and wellbeing are being managed by the vessel’s creditors.”

The Independent has contacted Villa Vie Residences and the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore for comment.

Read more: Stranded cruise ship finally leaves Cambodia after forcing hundreds of passengers off