The new brand/start-up Villa Vie Residences signed a Purchase Offer/Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire Fred Olsen's ship Braemar and name it Villa Vie Odyssey.
The 924-passenger vessel is set to commence operations in May 2024 following an extensive multimillion drydock refurbishment/refit into a residential ship.
Villa Vie Odyssey is designed to offer an intimate exploration lifestyle, capable of reaching destinations inaccessible to larger ships, often docking in the heart of various locales. The vessel's flatter hull enables navigation through inland waterways and rivers, and in October 2019, it became the longest ship to transit the Corinth Canal.
Mikael Petterson, CEO of Villa Vie Residences, noted that "Villa Vie Odyssey will be customized for her immersive, 3.5-year continuous circumnavigations, ensuring all the comforts and amenities of home." The ship will feature 8 decks, a wrap-around promenade, 3 restaurants, 8 bars, 4 lounges, 4 Jacuzzis, a spa, fitness center, and a well-stocked library.
Additionally, Villa Vie Odyssey will incorporate a central business center with private offices, conference spaces, and high-speed internet via Starlink and Viasat 3, allowing residents to work and travel globally. The ship will also introduce an interactive culinary center and a unique golf-around-the-world program with an onboard golf simulator, along with tours and classes led by a Master PGA Professional.
The company's distinctive 'for the residents, by the residents' approach involves residents owning the majority of Villa Vie's shares, actively participating in decision-making.
Setting itself apart from traditional cruises, Villa Vie prioritizes extended stays in ports, ranging from 2 to 7 days, allowing residents ample time to connect with each destination and live each day as a new holiday.
Villa Vie offers two all-inclusive options for those seeking a home for world exploration:
- Ownership starting at $99,999, with monthly maintenance fees from $1,750 per person.
- A "pay-as-you-go" concept allowing travelers to select and combine portions of the world cruise itinerary with a 10% upfront deposit, starting at $89 per day.