Residential cruise operator to take on second ship

Residential cruise operator Villa Vie Residences expects to add a second ship in 2029.

The US company’s new vessel will be named Legacy, offering cabins 50% larger than comparable accommodation on board existing vessel, 924-passenger Odyssey, previously Fred Olsen Cruise Line’s Braemar.

Ownership pricing and monthly maintenance charges are anticipated to be 30% higher than Odyssey, reflecting the vessel’s larger residences and elevated onboard experience, according to the line.

However, Villa Vie Residences has not disclosed where the second vessel is being sourced from other than describing it as being designed as a premium sister ship to Odyssey.

The official unveiling is due to take place during Villa Vie Odyssey’s second year anniversary, marking two years of continuous world cruising.

The announcement came as Villa Vie Residences disclosed that 85% of available accommodation on Odyssey has been sold with lead-in rates originally starting at $349,999.  

Company founder Mike Petterson said: "When we launched Odyssey, we set out to prove that residential cruising wasn’t just possible - it was sustainable.

"Two years later, with Odyssey more than 85% sold, we’ve reached an exciting milestone. Legacy is the natural evolution of everything we’ve learned from our residents and operations around the world.

"Our objective isn’t simply to build another ship. It’s to build a fleet that gives residents more choice while rewarding those who believed in this vision early. Legacy is the first step in that future."

Legacy is expected to feature expanded dining venues, larger public spaces, enhanced wellness facilities and additional luxury amenities, according to the company.