Villa Vie Odyssey Leaves Cambodia Safely as Some Passengers Stay On to Explore

Phnom Penh, November 4, 2026: The Villa Vie Odyssey departed Cambodian waters smoothly and safely on the night of Nov. 3 into Nov. 4, 2026, after receiving coordination and the warmest hospitality from the Royal Government, the Ministry of Tourism announced, while some passengers remain in the Kingdom to continue their travels.

Acting on the guidance of Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet, the ministry worked closely with the Preah Sihanouk provincial administration, the General Department of Immigration, the Sihanoukville Autonomous Port, the Ministry of Information, the Ministry of Agriculture, local authorities, the armed forces and the private sector to provide Type T visas, accommodation, transport, tour guides and other necessary services.

The ship carried 200 international passengers (116 women) from 15 nationalities and 156 crew members (12 women) from 16 nationalities. During their stay, passengers and crew expressed excitement and deep gratitude for the humanitarian spirit, warmth and care of the Cambodian government and people. With the vessel now gone, some passengers are continuing their visits to destinations including Preah Sihanouk, Phnom Penh, Kampot and Siem Reap.

The ministry said the episode is clear evidence that Cambodia is a safe tourism destination with warm hospitality, reflecting the humanitarian legacy shown under the leadership of Samdech Techo Hun Sen, President of the Senate and former Prime Minister, during the Westerdam cruise ship episode—which earned Cambodia the description "a small country with a big heart."

According to CBS News on Nov. 1, the Villa Vie Odyssey had faced serious financial difficulties for at least three months before arriving in Cambodia and was forced to suspend its world cruise at Sihanoukville Autonomous Port due to soaring fuel costs. Its lender has now taken control of the vessel and told passengers to collect their belongings, with the ship to be moved to Singapore for a possible auction. Founder and executive chairman Mike Petterson told CBS News the company is in a 30- to 90-day restructuring process and is seeking an operational partner or additional capital to recover the ship.

Reported by The Khmer Today