Former Fred Olsen Cruise Lines ship Braemar is to operate for global cruise start-up Villa Vie Residences.
The US company is renaming the 924-passenger vessel Villa Vie Odyssey and is to deploy it on an itinerary circumnavigating the world every three and a half years, visiting more than 420 ports in 147 countries across all seven continents.
The ship is to undergo an eight-week “multi-million dollar” refit in Belfast ahead of its debut sailing for Villa Vie Residences from Southampton on May 15.
The ship’s flatter hull enables it to navigate inland waterways and rivers. Braemar became the longest ship ever to transit the Corinth Canal in 2019.
Prices start at $99,999 for the full cruise, with users able to rent out their accommodation when they are not on board.
Rates lead-in at $89 per person per day for segments of the continuous world cruise that range from 35 to 120 days.
Travellers can choose from 16 various segments of the 1,301-day itinerary.
The revovation of the ship, which has operated for various cruises companies since entering service in 1993, includes all 480 cabins and the addition of a business centre and a pickleball court.
Company chief executive Mikael Petterson said: “We are thrilled to announce the possession of the ship and its transformation into Villa Vie Odyssey.
“This marks a significant step forward in our journey to provide residents with an unmatched quality of life and flexibility in residential cruising.
“Villa Vie Odyssey will set a new standard for global exploration, offering residents an exceptional blend of opulence, immersive travel and personalised service.”
Villa Vie Residences has hired Captain Jozo Glavic as master of the ship. He previously brought the Braemar through the Corinth Canal and has completed the ship’s last three dry docks.