Paranormal – The adventure was supposed to begin on May 30 and promised to be spectacular. The Villa V Residences Odyssey was to embark on a three-year voyage at sea, visiting 425 destinations and 147 countries, with Belfast as the first home port. However, major technical events thwarted the plans.

Since arriving on May 30, the cruise ship has remained stationary in Northern Ireland, mainly due to persistent rudder and gearbox problems. said Holly Hennessy, one of the passengers BBCShe sometimes spends a whole day with her cat. “They offer shuttles to get on and off the ship” She clarifies before adding it “Almost like a cruise, except we're docked. » The humid weather in Belfast (Northern Ireland) was surprising to the American living in Florida. “I've never needed my umbrella so much. “I take my raincoat everywhere I go.” She explains.

Compensation to passengers

Passengers spent at least $99,000 (about 89,000 euros) to rent their cabin and up to $899,999 (about 810,000 euros) to buy it permanently, to which they must add 1,000 to 3,500 “rent”. Not knowing when the boat would be able to sail, they were forced to make it a temporary accommodation. They benefit from access to the boat's three restaurants, five bars and swimming pool.

To offset this inconvenience, the company has implemented various alternatives. In an email sent to Business InsiderMichael Peterson, the cruise line's CEO, explains that the company offers residents hotel stays, alternative cruises and shore excursions to countries such as Spain, Liverpool and Amsterdam.

Customers can benefit from a variety of activities and accommodations. Angela and Stephen Theria, former residents of Nicaragua, knew how to make the most of their long stay, as they told the BBC. Since May, the couple have been exploring Spain by train, taking weekend trips to England and visiting Greenland. “We are travelers and we want to make the most of where we are” Angela Theriac explains. Stephen adds: “We ate at every restaurant and drank a Guinness at every pub. It's all part of our adventure. » Despite this delay, some people still find travel interesting.

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