INTERNEWSTIMES.COM – Despite months of delays and a scheduled departure on Monday, the Villa Vie Residences’ Odyssey cruise ship remains anchored in Belfast Lough. The 31-year-old liner, which arrived in Northern Ireland in May, was initially expected to set sail on Tuesday but has been held back due to final paperwork needing completion.
The ship’s passengers, however, remain upbeat. Newly-engaged couple Gian Perroni and Angie Harsanyi described the mood as positive, stating that the ship is “just waiting for last certification to come through”. John Frim, another passenger, expressed a sense of contentment, saying he was “happy to be home” and to have slept in his “own bed” on board the vessel.
Steve Theriac, a passenger, highlighted the sense of community on board, stating that people are “at peace to be on the ship and sort of at sea, whether we’re anchored or docked”. He also joked that everyone should get the word “resilience” tattooed on themselves, acknowledging the numerous delays the passengers have endured.
Angela Theriac described a celebratory atmosphere on Monday night, with a “big release” of energy and jubilant spirits. She emphasized the passengers’ patience and resilience, stating, “We all have a built in patience here. We are definitely a resilient folk. We stood around for four months, what’s a few more days?”
The passengers have been enjoying various onboard activities, including dance classes and “great” food, as they settle into their new temporary home. While some passengers expressed a potential shift in sentiment if the ship remains in Belfast Lough for another week, for now, they remain content and optimistic about their upcoming journey. The latest update on the Belfast Harbour website indicates that the ship is expected to depart on Wednesday afternoon. (Red)
