‘We’re going back to the US’: Couple abandon dream round-the-world cruise after repeated delays

The Villa Vie Odyssey round-the-world cruise was to be the trip of a lifetime for many passengers. 

The residential ship was set to circumnavigate the globe every three and a half years stopping at over 400 ports in 147 countries. 

But despite being scheduled to leave at the end of May, the vessel is still stationary in Belfast port - along with hundreds of stranded passengers.

Reports suggest the ship may depart sometime this week, but a definite date has not been announced.

Many who signed up for the epic voyage sold their houses and belongings in preparation for a potentially permanent move to live at sea. 

Grace and Jerry Grady, an American-Italian couple who spoke to Euronews Travel in May, did exactly that. 

When we contacted them again in late September, the situation is not as expected. Instead of regaling stories of far-flung lands, the pair explain that they are putting their sailing dreams on hold and heading back to America. 

Although some 800 passengers were ready to set sail at the end of May, the Villa Vie Odyssey cruise liner was not. 

Over the next few months, the vessel underwent a series of checks and tests for certifications which repeatedly found areas that needed improvement before it could leave. 

The ship is over 30-years-old, bought by Villa Vie Residences from Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, and needed recertifications to be deemed seaworthy. 

“These were unforeseen things that have taken time because they are not simple things, especially when this cruise ship is going to be going around the world for three and a half years,” says Jerry. 

In the beginning, passengers were allowed to live on the ship and use its various facilities like bars and restaurants. 

“The liner is really well restored inside, it’s back to