The company behind a three-and-a-half year cruise due to set sail in two weeks’ time has pushed back the start date to the end of the month.

Villa Vie Residences announced last year it is to operate a ‘Continual World Cruise’, calling at 425 ports in 147 countries, including multi-day stops, such as 12 days in Singapore.

The cruise, on Villa Vie Odyssey, previously Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines’ Braemar, had been due to leave Southampton on 15 May but will now leave on 30 May from Belfast.

A statement from Villa Vie Residences said the company secured a loan facility on 26 April and the ship has now arrived in Belfast on 28 April to undergo ‘operational enhancements’. It is scheduled to exit dry-dock on 21 May.

Between then and 30 May, Villa Vie Residences is running ship tours for people who have already booked to get a ‘firsthand look at the enhancements being made to the ship’.

CEO Mikael Petterson said: “The delay in departure is a necessary operational adjustment aimed at upholding the highest standards of service and safety.”

Villa Vie Residences has set up a hotline for passengers affected by the delay, and said it will cover all change fees incurred due to the new departure date.

Passengers can either own a cabin on the ship and sail on the entire world cruise programme, or buy individual cruise segments, ranging from 35 to 120 days. Those who buy cabins can lease them out or sell them later.

Chief Operating Officer Kathy Villalba said more than 80% of cabins are sold.

Cabins can be bought outright from $100,000 for an interior to $250,000 for a balcony room, with additional monthly charges starting from $3,500 per room.