Stranded Cruise Ship Villa Vie Odyssey Set to Depart Belfast After Months of Delays

Passengers remain hopeful as final paperwork is expected to be completed, allowing the ship to finally embark on its global voyage.

The Villa Vie Odyssey, a 31-year-old cruise ship, has been anchored off the coast of Northern Ireland for nearly four months due to mechanical issues and certification delays.
Originally scheduled to depart on May 30, the ship faced multiple setbacks including problems with its rudders and gearbox.
Passengers, some of whom have sold their homes to live on the ship, have been staying in hotels at night while waiting for the ship to be cleared for departure.
After a brief attempt to set sail on Monday night, the ship returned to Belfast Lough due to incomplete administrative paperwork.
The ship is now expected to return to port in Belfast to finalize preparations before departing for Brest, France, on Wednesday evening.