An Innovative Living Experience at Sea
Villa Vie Residences has recently launched a revolutionary concept in luxury cruising, offering individuals the opportunity to live at sea indefinitely aboard its ship, the Villa Vie Odyssey. This pioneering venture, marketed under the “Endless Horizons” package, allows residents to retire on the ocean for prices starting as low as $349,999. For many, this lifestyle represents a dream come true, significantly more affordable than traditional living expenses on land, especially when one considers the multitude of amenities and services included in the packages.
The Odyssey stands out as the world’s first perpetual cruise ship designed specifically for long-term voyages. Its rotating itinerary encompasses 425 destinations across 147 countries, completing its cycle in a leisurely three-and-a-half years. Unlike traditional cruises that may be rushed or tightly scheduled, this unique approach allows residents to immerse themselves in different cultures and experiences, with extended stops of five days or longer at various ports, offering ample time for exploration.
Among the options available, the Ocean View Villa package is particularly enticing, priced at $349,999 for an individual and $599,999 for couples. For those seeking more luxurious accommodations, the premium “Our Suites” package starts at $1.24 million for solo travelers, and $1.74 million for couples, offering larger living spaces that include queen-sized beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms, and dedicated work areas. An upgrade to the Endless Horizons Unleashed package can be obtained for an additional $50,000, which includes medical care, spa treatments, and personal grooming services, ensuring a high-quality living experience.
Residents of the Villa Vie Odyssey can also take advantage of a myriad of onboard amenities, including 24/7 cabin service, a fitness center, sports courts, entertainment lounges, bars, and a spa. Equally important, all packages encompass meal provisions and internet access, addressing essential living needs. The rich array of experiences, foreseen to enhance the quality of life aboard, differentiates it from typical cruise experiences, all while providing a sense of community and belonging.
One of the early residents, 77-year-old Sharon Lane, decided to abandon her conventional California retirement community for a more adventurous lifestyle aboard the Odyssey. Since boarding on June 16, she relishes the thought of spending the next decade aboard the ship, claiming that this lifestyle, with its included services, is more economical for her. “All the chores you do in life? Done!” Lane exclaimed, highlighting that the conventional burdens of daily living have been replaced with enjoyment and exploration.
Initially scheduled for a May 2024 launch, the Odyssey faced delays due to technical complications. After months docked in Belfast, Northern Ireland, the ship finally set sail on October 1, 2024, although it encountered setbacks soon after departure. Nonetheless, the operational challenges have since been resolved, and residents like Lane are now beginning to relish the myriad adventures awaiting them around the globe. With a passenger capacity of 650 across eight decks, the Villa Vie Odyssey promises to provide an unparalleled residential cruising option, encapsulating a floating sanctuary for those yearning for a life of exploration and tranquility.
