Couple Drops £680,000 On World Cruise That Still Hasn’t Left Port—Gives Sneak Peek Inside Their Floating Home

Imagine spending a staggering £680,000 on a dream world cruise, only to find yourself still docked at the port months later. That’s the reality for some passengers aboard the Odyssey, a luxury cruise ship by Villa Vie Residences, which has yet to set sail.

Despite the delay, these passengers are making the most of their time, giving us a glimpse into what life could be like on this floating palace.

Johan Bodin and Lanette Canen, a couple who purchased a cabin on the Odyssey, are ready to embark on a 15-year journey around the globe. Their spacious cabin is more than just a room—it’s set to be their home as the ship sails to 147 countries, 425 destinations, 7 continents, and 100 islands every 3.5 years.

The Odyssey isn’t just about travel; it’s a lifestyle. Passengers can enjoy a range of all-inclusive amenities, from fine dining restaurants and cozy lounges to a refreshing pool and even a golf simulator. For Johan and Lanette, the anticipation builds as they settle into their luxurious cabin, eager to explore the world from the comfort of their new home.

While the Odyssey has yet to leave the port, the promise of endless adventure and luxury living keeps its passengers excited and hopeful.

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The cruise liner features 485 cabins, which can comfortably accommodate up to 800 passengers. Majestic, isn't she?

villavieresidences.com

Although Mikael Petterson, founder and CEO of Villa Vie Residences, is confident that the ship will depart from Belfast, Ireland, "any day now," he admits it's "impossible to say which day exactly." According to Petterson, the three-month delay is due to awaiting "the green light" from DNV, a certification and risk assessment firm.

In the meantime, Johan and Lanette, who sold their car rental business in Maui, Hawaii, to embark on this expensive adventure, have been sharing their experiences on their YouTube channel, 'Living Life on a Cruise.' They've given viewers an inside look at the ship and, more importantly, their new home on the water.

Life on a cruise ship can evoke mixed feelings for passengers, particularly when expectations clash with reality. Dr. Helen Fisher, a biological anthropologist, notes that the excitement of travel can quickly turn to frustration if plans go awry.

She suggests that couples use this unexpected time to strengthen their bond, perhaps by planning themed dinners or engaging in onboard activities together. Fisher believes that embracing the situation can transform disappointment into a unique opportunity for shared experiences, aiding relationship growth.

Meet Johan Bodin and Lanette Canen

YouTube/@livinglifeonacruise

Despite admitting that their living space is on the smaller side, Johan and Lanette are thrilled with their cabin.

'But yeah, the room looks pretty good,' Johan shared. 'There's some laundry and stuff we have to take care of, but yeah, most of our stuff is in the closets.'

He went on to explain that while their cabin isn’t spacious enough for overnight guests, their friends and family will have their own cabins when they visit, making the experience enjoyable for everyone.

Regarding the delay in setting sail, Johan told Business Insider that Villa Vie has kept them entertained with short trips to destinations like Italy, Croatia, and Slovenia. 'We understand there are hiccups,' he said.

The couple gave a tour of their room, and it's a beauty!

YouTube/@livinglifeonacruise

Navigating Financial Decisions

Financial experts often advise caution when making significant investments, especially in luxury experiences like world cruises. According to Liz Weston, a well-known financial columnist, “It’s essential to evaluate the financial implications and potential risks before committing to such ventures.”

Weston emphasizes the importance of understanding the market, the company’s reputation, and the terms of the contract. She suggests that potential investors should consider diversifying their investments to mitigate risk, particularly when unforeseen events, like delays, occur.

'They're schmoozing us a bit to keep us happy. They're almost being too service-minded. I don't need to be pampered all the time,' shared one passenger, hinting at the overly attentive hospitality onboard.'Some people may think we're naive, but Villa Vie has our support 100 percent. We would be kicking ourselves if we didn't take this opportunity and go for it.'

Amid the skepticism, there’s no shortage of excitement, as someone else chimed in;

'Wow, what a great idea! No cooking, no cleaning, no need to drive.'

It's clear that the allure of a carefree lifestyle on the high seas still captures the imagination of many.

Let's take a tour with the couple

As the Odyssey prepares for its grand departure, passengers like Johan and Lanette find themselves caught between eager anticipation and luxurious indulgence.

While the ship may still be docked, the promise of a life of adventure, free from daily chores, keeps spirits high. After all, who wouldn’t want to swap their routine for a world tour with endless pampering?

The journey hasn't begun, but the excitement is already sailing.

Therapeutic Insights & Recovery

In summary, while the delays faced by Johan Bodin and Lanette Canen may seem disheartening, they offer valuable lessons about financial planning and relationship dynamics. Experts like Robert Kiyosaki and Dr. Helen Fisher provide insights into navigating such challenges effectively.

By fostering open communication and flexibility, couples can turn potential setbacks into enriching experiences. As they embark on their 15-year journey, embracing adaptability and mutual support will undoubtedly enhance their adventure, proving that sometimes the journey itself is just as important as the destination.