A US cruise vessel targeting a global journey has departed from the shores of Belfast for the second time this week, following months of postponements, according to passengers.
The Odyssey from Villa Vie Residences departed on Thursday afternoon, with reports suggesting it is on its way to Scotland for refueling.
Passengers were seen enjoying themselves at one of the onboard bars.
One of the travelers, Holly Hennessy from Florida, expressed her joy, stating: “Hallelujah! We are all overwhelmed with excitement, and the festivities have already commenced.”
While filming herself on the deck, she remarked: “This is my beautiful home-ship-home. I am eagerly awaiting the sound of the horn.”
Passengers released streamers as the Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey cruise ship left Belfast. Pic: Holly Hennessy
Real-time tracking on the MarineTraffic website also verified the ship’s movement. The Odyssey’s status was listed as: “Underway, using engine.”
The vessel was initially scheduled to depart Belfast in May, but delays arose due to necessary repairs, resulting in an unexpected extended stay for many passengers in Northern Ireland.
The US liner finally sailed out of Belfast Harbour shortly after 11 PM on Monday night but was instructed to anchor off the coast shortly afterward to finalize outstanding administrative matters.
The passengers that experienced the delay were not living on board during this period; instead, they resided in hotels and temporary rental accommodations in Belfast.
Villa Vie Odyssey cruise ship vacating Belfast. Pic: PA
Cabins on the ship can be rented for durations ranging from 35 to 120 days, or ownership of cabins can be acquired at prices between £90,000 and £260,000.
Those who purchase a villa secure ownership for the duration of the ship’s operations, with a guaranteed minimum of 15 years.
Several passengers expressed their gratitude to Belfast for being their host for several months, commending the friendly locals and the numerous pubs the city has available.
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Among those aboard were Gian Perroni and Angela Harsanyi, who embarked on the ship as strangers and are now engaged, having begun a relationship during their time in Belfast.
During an interview with The UK Tonight with Sarah-Jane Mee on Wednesday, Mr. Perroni stated, “We adore this place,” while also sharing his anticipation for the voyage ahead.
The vessel is projected to ultimately journey to Brest in France before making several additional stops on its way to the Bahamas.
