Fort Worth couple faces uncertainty after residential cruise ship orders passengers off

Dwight and Sheila Greene spent the past year living aboard a luxury residential cruise ship. This week, the Fort Worth couple was among more than 200 passengers told to disembark in Cambodia as the vessel entered a temporary layup period. The decision leaves the couple and other residents without a home at sea, forcing them to calculate what comes next after a 15 year commitment.

The core of the disruption is financial. Villa Vie Residence stated that rising fuel costs, driven by conflict in the Middle East, made it impossible to continue absorbing operating losses. The company noted it had already slowed its itinerary and spent more time in port to reduce consumption since the conflict began in late February. Despite those measures, the company said it could not offset the extraordinary increase in expenses.

Passengers contributed additional funds earlier this year in an attempt to keep the ship afloat. Dwight Greene acknowledged that many residents were aware of the underlying issues before the final order to leave. He said, “I think pretty much everyone who's paid any attention at all knew that there were issues.” The company had faced legal challenges previously, with records showing a lawsuit filed last year alleging it misrepresented its financial stability.

The Greenes purchased their cabin last May with the intent of making the Odyssey their permanent home. They described the experience as amazing, with Dwight comparing the vessel to their own personal aircraft carrier. They use the ship as a base for their travel vlogging business, getting on and off as needed. Now, they have left personal belongings aboard the Odyssey while they head out on a previously booked cruise.

The move to leave belongings behind signals the couple's continued belief that the ship will return to service. Dwight Greene said he is full of hope and faith that they will survive the pause. He expressed devastation for those who have lost money or faith, but maintained a positive outlook for the future of the vessel. The company has not announced a specific date for when operations will resume.