US-based cruise ship evicts residents in Cambodia amid rising fuel costs

By Berk Kutay Gokmen

ISTANBUL (AA) - A residential cruise ship suspended operations in Cambodia as soaring fuel costs left passengers in limbo after the US-based operator instructed them to disembark, according to NBC News.

Florida-based Villa Vie Residences said Tuesday it was working to find “temporary living arrangements” for passengers aboard The Odyssey.

The ship set sail from Belfast, Northern Ireland, three years ago, offering residents “an unparalleled lifestyle of luxury and exploration” as it traveled around the world.

The Odyssey's cabins were available for purchase or rent.

The company said the ship could accommodate 650 residents. But a Cambodian official said Wednesday that 203 passengers and 156 crew members were on board.

Some passengers had already left Cambodia by air, while others waited in the port city of Sihanoukville, Long Dimanche said the deputy governor of Preah Sihanouk.

He said that the ship was expected to refuel before leaving Cambodia on Saturday.

In a statement Tuesday, the company said it had taken significant steps to cut fuel consumption, but the measures were not enough to offset the sharp rise in costs.

Global oil prices have climbed since the US’ war with Iran began in February, disrupting fuel supplies worldwide. Prices have also reached their highest in months in recent days.

“Passing the full increase on to residents is not a realistic solution,” said the company. “Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees while we work toward restructuring and recapitalization over the next 60 days. That work is ongoing, and no outcome is assured.”

Berk Kutay Gökmen