All passengers on ‘endless cruise’ stranded in Cambodia as their ship sails away to Singapore

Passengers who signed up for an ‘endless cruise’ around the world have been left stranded in Cambodia, with the cruise liner putting it down to financial difficulties.

The Villa Vie Odyssey, which promised residents years of travelling the world, has reportedly been directed to Singapore amid claims that lenders are preparing to seize the vessel over unpaid debts.

Maritime Executive reports that ‘there is speculation that they would move to have the ship sold at auction’.

However, Mike Petterson, the company's founder and executive chairman, said to CBS News on Sunday that they want to get the ship back and still ‘have time to get a restructure done’.

With the lender taking over the operational costs of the ship, Petterson added: "They have now the responsibility to pay the crew, fuel and the operations of the vessel and safekeeping of the vessel.

Around 200 passengers were forced to evacuate the cruise ship (AFP via Getty Images)

"They would be willing to work with a funded plan — they're not out of negotiations — it's not like you get your car repossessed and you can't get it back."

Around 200 passengers were forced to leave the ship on 27 October, with some given just hours to pack their belongings.

Some residents had spent more than two years living aboard the vessel, capable of carrying nearly 1,000 passengers.

All passengers have been transferred to hotels in Cambodia, where local authorities reportedly helped arrange accommodation and even hosted a welcome dinner.

It comes after some passengers say said they were unable to collect all their personal belongings before leaving the ship.

Passengers have been left stranded in Cambodia (Suy SE / AFP via Getty Images)

Villa Vie Residences, has blamed rising fuel prices due to the Iran war for its financial problems, saying it attempted to reduce costs by sailing more slowly and spending longer periods in ports.

"Since the conflict began in late February, we have taken significant steps to reduce fuel consumption, including slowing the itinerary and spending more time in port,” the company said in a statement last week.

“Those measures have not been enough to offset the extraordinary increase in fuel costs, and we have been unable to continue carrying the resulting operating losses.

“Passing the full increase on to residents is not a realistic solution.

“Our focus now is on supporting residents, crew, and employees while we work toward restructuring and recapitalization over the next 60 days.

“That work is ongoing, and no outcome is assured."

LADbible Group has contacted Villa Vie Residences for an update.