Villa Vie Odyssey Tried Something Different. Could MSC Do It Better?
What did Villa Vie Odyssey get right, and what could the big cruise lines learn from the experience? Despite the challenges surrounding Villa Vie Odyssey, I think the company identified something genuinely appealing about residential cruising. There are three things I believe they got right: - **Community:** Creating a social environment where people aren't just fellow passengers, but neighbours who share experiences and develop lasting friendships. - **Affordable entry:** Offering a relatively accessible way to experience long-term cruising without purchasing an expensive residential apartment at sea. - **The hotel experience:** Comfortable accommodation, housekeeping, dining and entertainment, with the convenience of having your hotel travel with you. But here's where I think the idea could go further. What if major cruise companies like MSC, Royal Caribbean or Norwegian developed their own residential cruising products? Imagine purchasing a three-, six- or twelve-month package rather than buying a permanent residence aboard a ship. You could embark at different ports, follow the ship's itinerary, and perhaps even leave for a few weeks to explore a destination using monthly Airbnb rentals. Buy time, not property. The cruise lines already have the ships, infrastructure and hospitality experience. Could they turn residential cruising into a more flexible and accessible travel product? This is another idea I'm exploring, and I'd really like to hear your thoughts. **Would you consider a three-, six- or twelve-month residential cruise package? What would make it attractive? And what do you think the cruise companies are missing?** Let's hear your ideas! #VillaVieOdyssey #ResidentialCruising #MSC Cruises #CruiseShipLife #SlowTravel #LongTermTravel
