Cruise ship suspends a global voyage in Asia due to fuel costs, stranding 200 passengers

A U.S. cruise ship, the MV Odyssey, suspended its three-year around-the-world voyage in Cambodia due to fuel costs, leaving 200 passengers to disembark, according to officials and the operator. The ship entered port in Sihanoukville on the Gulf of Thailand and has no confirmed departure date. It had been marketed as “permanent home” cruising, with suites starting around $230,000 for the lifetime of the vessel. Cambodia’s deputy officials said the Odyssey carried 203 passengers, mostly Americans, plus 156 crew, out of a 650-passenger capacity. Villa Vie Residences said monthly fuel expense per cabin rose from about $1,800 to an estimated $6,000–$8,000 in parts of Asia amid disruptions linked to the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz traffic curbs. Passengers reported limited support after seven hours’ notice.