'Cruise for life' ship seized in Singapore

A round-the-world cruise that left passengers stranded in Cambodia after its US-based operator ran out of money has been seized in Singapore. The Odyssey, which set off from Belfast in October 2024 and was meant to take guests on a years-long voyage around the world, is now anchored in Singapore port waters, local authorities say. Around 200 guests were forced to leave the ship last month in the Cambodian port city of Sihanoukville, after its owner Villa Vie Residences abruptly suspended operations citing "extraordinary increases in fuel costs".

"Arrangements for their welfare and wellbeing are being managed by the vessel's creditors," AFP news agency reported the authority saying. Singapore law firm Helmsman LLC has been named the "arresting solicitor", but it is not clear which party it represents. Passengers were given the options of buying their cabin outright, which allows them to stay onboard beyond its initial voyage, paying for a five-year residency, or renting a cabin for days-long tours.

Permanent residencies in its cabins ranged from $120,000 (£89,272) to $440,000.