There’s now a three-and-a-half-year cruise planning to set sail in May

There’s now a three-and-a-half-year cruise planning to set sail in May

Villa Vie Residences, another long-term cruise startup, has confirmed the purchase of a ship for its own three-and-a-half-year journey around the world. Departure is scheduled for May 2024.

The company has bought the MS Braemar from Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, renaming it Villa Vie Odyssey. The vessel was constructed in 1993 for Crown Cruise Line and marketed by Cunard, before passing to Majesty and then NCL, then returning to Crown, and finally being bought by Fred. Olsen in 2001.

Peter Deer, managing director of Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, confirmed  that the ship had been sold to Villa Vie, adding: “It is due for delivery at the end February 2024.”

While it’s 30 years old, the Braemar has not been going to seed during that time. In 2009, it was enlarged during a refurb, and was renovated again in 2019 – the same year that it became the longest ship to squeeze through the Corinth Canal. The company put her up for sale in November 2022.

It has a capacity of 924, across 485 cabins, and its relatively small size means that it is capable of docking in the heart of destinations, Villa Vie said in a statement released exclusively to CNN. Its flatter hull means it can navigate inland waterways, too.

As the Odyssey, the ship will have eight decks, a wraparound promenade and an enlarged pool – combining the current two, so that passengers can swim laps. They are also adding Jacuzzi tubs to bring the on-deck total to four.

There will be three restaurants, eight bars and four lounges, as well as a spa, fitness center, library and medical center.