You can go on a 3.5 year cruise around the world to visit 147 countries – and it sets sail next year
A NEW cruise is due to set sail next year, taking its passengers around 147 different countries on a more than three-year-long journey.
The Villa Vie Odyssey will take to the seas in May, 2024, following the completion of a multimillion-dollar transformation into a residential cruise ship, complete with villas as residences.
The Odyssey promises those on board an "intimate, new cruise lifestyle", with the ship able to reach parts of the world that larger vessels aren't able to access, often docking in the heart of destinations.
The ship's flatter hull enables it to navigate inland waterways and rivers, as well as seas.
It will feature eight decks, including a wrap-around promenade.
Passengers can make use of its three restaurants, eight bars and four lounges, as well as an extended pool with four Jacuzzis, a spa and fitness centre, and a well-stocked library.
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Villa Vie Residences CEO Mikael Petterson said: "Villa Vie Odyssey will be customised for its immersive, 3.5-year global circumnavigations, ensuring all the comforts and amenities of home."
For those who will have to work while at sea, a large, central business centre will allow them to make use of private offices and conference spaces.
Satellite internet services will provide fast and reliable web access for all residents and guests, meaning work and entertainment are covered for everyone on board.
Travellers can choose to either own or rent their villa, depending on their circumstances and the cruise company claim that the price is comparable to traditional flat ownership.
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For $89 (£70) per day, residents will have rent, utilities, food, travel, and entertainment all included.
Some of the rooms on the ship can be bought for £82,000.
For that, they will set sail in a basic cabin - however more luxurious options can be bagged for as much as £205,120.
Not everyone on board has to travel for the full 3.5 year trip.
They can make use of a "pay-as-you-go" payment concept that allows them to combine various portions of the itinerary.
They will have the option to combine different sections, ranging in length from 35 days to 120 days.
Altogether, the ship will stop at 425 ports across 147 countries for 1,301 days on its world cruise.
Stays in each port range from two to seven days, depending on where it is.
The ship will set off on its lengthy journey around the globe from Southampton.
Petterson added: "The ship's name symbolises the company ethos of creating a community to share unforgettable moments of discovery on an extended journey, connecting people, places, and self."
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Meanwhile, this cruise ship is set to launch in 2025, with a huge hybrid at-sea rollercoaster.
And this new ship also taking to the seas next year will offer passengers a brand new sea view dome.
