A world cruise expected to last 3.5 years has yet to depart, over three months past its intended launch date.

The inaugural cruise by Villa Vie Residences was slated to kick off in May, but its ship, Villa Vie Odyssey, is still docked in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

CEO Mikael Petterson explained via email, “We were optimistic about our Odyssey making the journey to Belfast smoothly. However, we’ve learned that reactivating a 30-year-old ship after four years in storage is quite the challenge. With all our certifications expired, our vessel is treated as a new ship, requiring all systems to function like new.”

Previously, the ship, which last operated under the name MS Braemar with Fred Olsen Cruise Lines, underwent refurbishments after being acquired by Villa Vie last year.

“We’ve tackled significant repairs including the rudder, steel work, and engine overhauls, and we’re now close to launching,” Petterson noted. The ship is anticipated to set sail next week, with stops planned in places like Amsterdam, Netherlands, and Lisbon, Portugal, before heading across the Atlantic to the Caribbean.

Unfortunately, the ship will miss most scheduled stops in Northern Europe but will add those destinations to its 2027 itinerary.

Starr Davis, a passenger who left her life in Hollywood, Florida, made significant changes to embark on this 147-country adventure, selling her car and putting her house for sale. “I’ve pared down to just four suitcases and a few large storage bins with my belongings,” she shared with YSL News.

Davis, 56, has always aspired to cruise around the world. She retired shortly before the original departure from Southampton, England, on May 15, which was pushed back to May 30 from Belfast, marking a series of delays.

Currently, passengers can board the ship in the mornings around 8:30 but must leave by 9:30 p.m., according to Davis. Villa Vie has arranged accommodations and provided meals and activities onboard, such as trivia games.

Prices for cabins currently start at $119,999, as stated on Villa Vie’s website. Davis opted for a pay-as-you-go plan but chose not to disclose her expenses for the cruise.

“We are incredibly thankful for our residents who have remained loyal during these challenges,” Petterson commented. “We’ve collaborated with them to arrange hotels, short cruises, excursions, and welcomed them onboard to get their rooms set up and meet the crew and other residents.”

Davis has embraced the adjustments. She took her extra time in May to explore New York City and see Broadway shows, then continued her travels throughout Europe and North Africa. “Initially, I wanted to wait for the ship, but I’ve realized I want to explore the world,” she said.

Her experiences have been plentiful, including a hot air balloon ride in Marrakech, Morocco, and rappelling down a football stadium in Liverpool.

This situation follows the cancellation of a three-year world cruise by Life at Sea Cruises last year due to investors dropping out and issues in acquiring the desired ship. However, Davis remains hopeful that Villa Vie’s ship will soon set sail.

“I believe this will happen,” she stated confidently. “I’m convinced we’re being treated fairly.”