BELFAST — Cruise passengers are set to embark from Belfast on Monday (Sept 30) for a three-and-a-half-year global journey after spending months in the city due to unexpected repairs on the ship. Some intend to make it their permanent residence.

Passengers aboard the Villa Vie Residences' Odyssey, touted as the world’s first continuous cruise, have the option to purchase their cabins for the ship’s entire operational duration or rent them for specific segments of the trip.

The ship, which accommodates 650 passengers, was initially scheduled to depart from the Northern Irish capital in May but was delayed due to rudder and gearbox repair issues.

After conducting a series of sea trials, the Odyssey announced on social media on Friday that it had received clearance from Britain's Maritime and Coastguard Agency and Public Health, expressing excitement about welcoming passengers.

“It has just been dragging on for a long time,” said John Frim from Canada, who, along with his wife Monica, chose this cruise to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary. “But we've never lost faith in the concept.”

Monica added, “We’re not happy about the delay… but when you think about it over three-and-a-half years, what’s four months?”

To compensate for the unforeseen delay, the cruise company covered the guests' accommodation costs in Belfast and other parts of Europe.

Voyage to All Seven Continents

The inaugural voyage will span 1,301 days, visiting all seven continents and making stops at 425 ports, including Rio de Janeiro and Singapore. The ship is equipped with various amenities, including restaurants, a pool, spa, business center, and medical facilities.

While waiting to board, passengers have attempted to make the most of their time in Belfast. “I will always have a fond place in my heart for Belfast,” said retired American wealth manager Holly Hennessy. “Meeting so many kind people, living in an urban setting, being carless, and escaping American politics has been wonderful.”

Some passengers plan to stay on the cruise indefinitely, like Melody and John Hennessee from the US, who shared with the BBC that the ship would become their home.

Others found love during the wait. Canadian Gian Perroni and American Angela Harsanyi met at the Belfast hotel where many passengers stayed and announced their engagement last week. “It probably couldn’t get any better than that, right?” Harsanyi told Sky News. “We’re getting married between the Panama Canal and Costa Rica.”

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters