Passengers aboard a cruise ship stuck in Belfast have recounted what they will miss about Northern Ireland as they gear up to finally embark on a worldwide voyage.
The Villa Vie Odyssey was originally scheduled to set off on a three-and-a-half-year cruise on May 30, but mechanical issues compelled the ship – along with its guests – to remain in Belfast.
After a delay of four months, the vessel is now expected to depart tonight at 11pm.
John Hennessee and his wife, Melody Thor Hennessee, from Palm Beach, Florida, have fully embraced the unforeseen pause and shared with Sky News that there is much about Belfast they’ll miss.
“The locals are incredible,” Mrs. Hennessee remarked. “They are so warm and generous. It’s truly remarkable. We’ve formed many new friendships, and it’s been enjoyable.”
She elaborated, “We’ve experienced nearly every tourist attraction Belfast has available. We’ve nearly dined at every restaurant you could find in Belfast.
“We now have a real fondness for Guinness; that’s a significant highlight. We indulge in it daily.”
“American Guinness doesn’t quite compare to what it is here,” her husband chimed in.
The Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship in Belfast on Saturday. Pic: PA
The couple has maximized their unexpected time on UK soil by also visiting Tenerife and Paris, in addition to enjoying a brief voyage on a Norwegian vessel.
Although they were “overjoyed” to finally receive a departure confirmation, Mrs. Hennessee noted, “But this [delay] enabled us to complete the renovations on our cabin. Now we can cruise in luxury; it’s all set.”
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The opulent ship provides rental cabins for durations ranging from 35 to 120 days – whereas entire villas can be acquired at prices between £90,000 and £260,000.
Individuals purchasing a villa gain ownership of the space for as long as the ship operates, with a minimum assurance of 15 years.
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The passengers, unable to remain on board during the four-month wait, have instead found accommodations in hotels and short-term rental units in Belfast.
Two of the ship’s guests have experienced a particularly notable journey, transitioning from strangers to getting engaged while stranded.
