A luxury cruise ship, the Odyssey, finally embarked on its long-awaited journey from Belfast late Monday night, marking the end of a frustrating four-month wait for its passengers. The ship's departure was celebrated with cheers and applause from those eager to begin their global adventure.

 

A Night of Celebration

As the clock struck 22:40 GMT, passengers aboard the Odyssey erupted in joy as the vessel slipped away from Belfast harbor. Joe Martino, a 61-year-old actor from Chicago, expressed his excitement, stating, "We are going to have one heck of a time tonight; we are going to party like there’s no tomorrow." His enthusiasm was echoed by many as they prepared to leave behind the rainy Northern Irish capital.

However, the ship's departure was not without its complications. Passengers faced delays at the cruise terminal due to last-minute paperwork issues that held up boarding. Mike Petersen, CEO of Villa Vie Residences—the company that owns the Odyssey—eventually confirmed that everything was in order for departure, prompting an outpouring of relief and joy among those waiting.

 

The Long Wait

Originally scheduled to set sail on May 30 for a three-and-a-half-year cruise around the world, the Odyssey encountered numerous technical delays. The outfitting process took longer than expected, compounded by engine repairs and certification hurdles. "Everything that could go wrong went wrong," lamented Martino, summarizing the frustrations felt by many.

The ship underwent extensive repairs at Harland & Wolff, the historic shipyard in Belfast known for constructing the Titanic over a century ago. Further complications arose when the shipbuilder entered financial administration earlier this month, adding yet another layer of uncertainty to an already tumultuous situation.

 

Life in Limbo

During their unexpected stay in Belfast, passengers were allowed to spend their days aboard the ship but were required to find accommodations off-site for overnight stays. Many opted for local hotels or rented apartments while they awaited news of their departure. Some took advantage of their extended stay to explore Northern Ireland or venture into Europe.

Holly Hennessy, a passenger who brought her cat named "Captain," humorously remarked about her lengthy wait: "I’ve been in Belfast for four months and two days, but hey, who’s counting!" Despite the challenges, many passengers formed strong bonds during their time in Belfast and shared memorable experiences exploring the city.

 

The Journey Ahead

With its departure now behind it, the Odyssey is set to visit an impressive array of destinations across all seven continents. The cruise will make more than 425 stops in 147 locations over its operational period. Initial ports of call include Brest and Bilbao before heading across the Atlantic towards the Caribbean.

The Odyssey is designed as a "residential" cruise ship where passengers can either buy or rent long-term cabins. This unique concept promises unlimited voyages around the globe, allowing travelers to experience diverse cultures and landscapes from the comfort of their floating home.

As passengers settled in for their first night aboard after months of waiting, there was palpable excitement about what lay ahead. Many expressed hope that this would be just the beginning of an incredible journey filled with new adventures and unforgettable memories.

The Odyssey's inaugural voyage is not just about travel; it represents resilience and community among those who have shared this unique experience. As they sail toward sunnier destinations, passengers are eager to embrace all that awaits them on this extraordinary cruise adventure.