In May 2024, Villa Vie Residences, a new player in the long-term cruise scene, is embarking on a unique three-and-a-half-year journey around the world.
This move follows the cancellation of Life at Sea Cruises’ three-year voyage due to ship acquisition challenges.
Villa Vie Residences has recently acquired the MS Braemar from Fred.
Olsen Cruise Lines, renaming it the Villa Vie Odyssey.
Built in 1993, the ship underwent refurbishments in 2009 and 2019, making it a suitable choice for this extended global expedition.
The vessel boasts a capacity of 924 passengers across 485 cabins, facilitating docking in various destinations with its smaller size and flatter hull.
Peter Deer, the managing director of Fred.
Olsen Cruise Lines, confirmed the sale of the ship to Villa Vie, with delivery expected by the end of February 2024.
Despite its 30-year history, the Braemar remains well-maintained and equipped for the upcoming adventure.
Villa Vie Odyssey will feature eight decks, a wraparound promenade, an enlarged pool, and added Jacuzzi tubs.
The ship will offer amenities such as three restaurants, eight bars, four lounges, a spa, fitness center, library, and a medical center.
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Notably, it will provide fast and reliable internet through Starlink and Viasat 3, ensuring connectivity throughout the 1,301-day journey.
Passengers will have the opportunity to explore 147 countries and 425 ports during their port stays, ranging from two to seven days.
This approach allows for a more in-depth experience beyond the typical “hit and run” cruise ship visits.
CEO Mikael Petterson describes the Villa Vie experience as a “lifestyle – a home with ever-changing backyards,” emphasizing flexibility and a sense of ownership.
The cruise offers options for both buying and renting cabins, with prices starting at $89 per person per day for rented inside cabins and $99,000 for purchased internal cabins.
For those hesitant about committing to the full three and a half years, segments as short as 35 days can be booked.
Solo travelers enjoy discounts, and all prices include food, soft drinks, alcohol at dinner, WiFi, medical visits, weekly housekeeping, and bi-weekly laundry service.
Addressing concerns arising from the Life at Sea cancellation, Petterson assures potential passengers that Villa Vie is different, requiring only a 10% deposit to secure a spot.
This deposit is held in escrow until February 15, after which the first 90 days of the cruise are paid.
Private investment covers the ship’s cost, and Petterson emphasizes that passengers’ deposits will not be spent before the designated date.
With the ship secured, a 10-week refurbishment, including a two-week dry dock period, is the next step.
Petterson affirms that Villa Vie’s approach sets it apart, focusing on commitment rather than large upfront payments, making it an attractive choice for those seeking a unique and flexible long-term cruise experience.
