By
Laura Hyde |
Villa Vie Residences has taken delivery of Villa Vie Odyssey, a 929-passenger ship formerly operated by Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines as Braemar.
The ship, which was originally built in 1993, will now undergo an eight-week renovation in Belfast. All 480 staterooms will be refurbished, along with renovations to the pool deck, a pickleball court, observation deck, and culinary centre. An onboard business centre will also be created.
Villa Vie Residences takes delivery of Odyssey from former owner, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
“We are thrilled to announce the possession of the ship and its transformation into Villa Vie Odyssey,” said Mikael Petterson, CEO of Villa Vie Residences. “This marks a significant step forward in our journey to provide residents with an unmatched quality of life and flexibility in residential cruising. Villa Vie Odyssey will set a new standard for global exploration, offering residents an exceptional blend of opulence, immersive travel, and personalised service.”
The pool deck will be given a makeover during the renovation project
Following its refurbishment, Villa Vie Odyssey will set sail from Southampton, England, on 15 May for a three-and-a-half-year cruise, which will take guests to destinations on seven continents. The itinerary also includes visits to 13 of the 14 ancient and new Wonders of the World.
The ship will be captained by Captain Jozo Glavic, who has over 20 years’ experience as a global mariner. Captain Glavic was at the helm of the ship in 2019 when it became the longest ship ever to cruise through the Corinth Canal in Greece.
“We are excited to welcome Captain Jozo to our team and look forward to his leadership as he helms our ship on our global adventure,” said Kathy Villalba, chief operating officer of Villa Vie Residences.