Latest news with #MikaelPetterson
USA Today
5 days ago
- USA Today
Residential cruise ship fails CDC health inspection during 3-year sailing
Residential cruise ship Villa Vie Odyssey failed a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) sanitation inspection. The vessel received a score of 81 following its July 9 inspection, according to a report on the health agency's website. Cruise ships need at least an 86 to pass. The report notes violations in a range of areas, from potable water to food safety and housekeeping. For example, the inspection found a waffle iron that was 'soiled with grease and black debris' had been stored with clean equipment in a galley on Deck 3, and water pooled beneath a refrigerator in a wine cellar. 'The source of the water could not be determined,' the report said. There were three dead fruit flies in a light cover near a refrigerator in a pantry on Deck 5, as well. "Both swimming pools did not have safety signs, prominent depth markers in feet and meters, nor did the safety rings have an attached rope that was at least 2/3rds of the pool width," the report also noted, among other infractions. 'It's important to emphasize that the majority of the noted deficiencies were not related to food safety, but rather to structural and design elements reflective of the ship's age and original construction – long before current U.S. public health standards were in place,' Villa Vie Residences founder Mikael Petterson told USA TODAY in an emailed statement. 'Unlike modern vessels designed specifically for regular U.S. operations, the Odyssey was not originally built for this market, making direct comparisons somewhat unfair.' The Odyssey previously sailed as Fred Olsen Cruise Lines' MS Braemar before Villa Vie purchased it in 2023. Petterson noted the ship had not been to the U.S. in more than 23 years, and said it has passed other health inspections since it departed from Belfast, Northern Ireland, in October. 'That said, we've taken the inspection feedback seriously, made the necessary adjustments, and are confident that a follow-up inspection would result in a passing score,' he added. Odyssey was scheduled to begin a 3 ½ -year cruise in May 2024, but faced numerous setbacks before setting sail. Petterson told USA TODAY last summer that the company had been 'quite humbled by the scale of what it takes to reactivate a 30-year-old vessel from a four-year layup. After the lapse of all certifications of class we are now considered (a) new ship where all machinery and equipment must work as if new.'
Yahoo
21-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Villa Vie Residences Unveils Floating Oasis for Adventure Seeking Residents
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Villa Vie Residences, the pioneers in residential cruising, is proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership with AquaBanas, the global leader in luxury inflatable platforms. In anticipation of their 3-month South Pacific journey, they will introduce the Customized Floating Oasis designed exclusively for the Villa Vie Odyssey, Villa Vie's flagship residential cruise ship. This state-of-the-art platform will serve as a Floating Marina and Recreation Hub, allowing residents to enjoy water sports, sunbathing, social events, and ocean access like never before. Designed with both luxury and safety in mind, the custom platform enhances the at-sea lifestyle, perfectly complementing Villa Vie Residences' mission to provide a unique, global living experience. The Oasis which can be launched from both sides of the vessel will be utilized during anchor days in tropical places like the Maldives, Seychelles, and the South Pacific where waters are crystal clear where residents can launch watercrafts for ultimate exploration. The Oasis also enhances tendering operations - particularly in remote or unique ports of call where docking infrastructure is limited or nonexistent. "With our global itinerary, we often visit breathtaking destinations that require tendering to reach shore," said Mikael Petterson, Chairman of Villa Vie Residences. "Our residents are seeking more than just a place to live – they want experiences. This innovative addition reflects our commitment to reimagining life at sea, combining luxury, exploration, and community." AquaBanas, known for their premium inflatable platforms used by superyachts and resorts worldwide, brings their cutting-edge design and marine engineering to this collaboration. The custom structure will feature a lounging zone, water sport launch points, and seamless integration with the Villa Vie Odyssey for effortless access and tendering operations. "Working with Villa Vie Residences aligns perfectly with our vision of creating unforgettable aquatic experiences," said Mark Anastasia, CEO of AquaBanas. "This oasis will redefine how people enjoy the adventures and luxuries of ocean living." The customized adventure platform is scheduled to debut in September 2025, coinciding with the Odyssey's planned visit to the South Pacific, offering residents even more reasons to embrace full-time life at sea. For details and media inquiries, please contact media@ About Villa Vie ResidencesVilla Vie Residences reimagines cruise ship living with flexible, long-term options that cater to today's travelers. Its Continual World Cruise explores more than 425 ports in over 140 countries across seven continents every three and a half years. Residents choose to own, rent, or lease for life through the Endless Horizons Program, enjoying a unique blend of home comfort and global discovery. Contact:Villa Vie ResidencesEmail: media@ For images and assets, please click here View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Villa Vie Residences Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Villa Vie Odyssey Makes Historic First Visit to Honolulu, Marking U.S. Debut
HONOLULU, June 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Villa Vie Residences proudly announces the inaugural U.S. arrival of its flagship residential cruise ship, the Villa Vie Odyssey, as it docks in Honolulu, Hawaii. This momentous occasion marks the vessel's first visit to the United States, offering a unique opportunity for local residents and officials to experience the innovative concept of residential cruising firsthand. The Villa Vie Odyssey is currently on a groundbreaking 3.5-year global voyage, visiting over 425 ports across more than 140 countries. Designed to serve as a floating community, the ship offers various residency options, including full ownership, seasonal stays, and flexible rental programs. Residents enjoy luxurious amenities such as a business center, medical facilities, a culinary studio, and a golf simulator, all while exploring the world's most captivating destinations. "Our arrival in Honolulu is a significant milestone for Villa Vie Residences," said Mikael Petterson, Chairman of Villa Vie Residences. "We are thrilled to introduce our unique lifestyle concept to the U.S. and share the extraordinary experiences that come with living at sea." Following its Hawaiian stop, the Villa Vie Odyssey will continue its journey along the U.S. West Coast, with scheduled visits to Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle. The ship will then proceed to Alaska before heading towards Asia and the South Pacific, continuing its mission to redefine the future of travel and living. For more information about Villa Vie Residences and the Villa Vie Odyssey, please visit About Villa Vie ResidencesVilla Vie Residences reimagines cruise ship living with flexible, long-term options that cater to today's travelers. Its Continual World Cruise explores more than 425 ports in over 140 countries across seven continents every three and a half years. Residents choose to own, rent, or lease for life through the Endless Horizons Program, enjoying a unique blend of home comfort and global discovery. Contact:Villa Vie ResidencesEmail: media@ For images and assets, please click here View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Villa Vie Residences
Yahoo
19-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Villa Vie Residences Launches Unleashed Endless Horizons, Limitless Cruising for Life
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., March 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Villa Vie Residences, the leader in residential cruising, introduces Unleashed Endless Horizons, offering an all-inclusive forever cruise providing the ultimate way to live and explore. For a one-time payment of $399,999 USD for single occupancy or $699,999 USD for double occupancy, individuals can retire into a life of limitless adventure, cultural immersion, and luxury. The Unleashed Program covers not only meals, accommodations, housekeeping, laundry, and high-speed internet, but also premium onboard services like alcohol, spa treatments, and medical visits. Unleashed Endless Horizons is designed for those who want their retirement years to be filled with new experiences and personal growth—without the stress of inflation or hidden costs. By combining a Permanent Cruise Right with an All-Inclusive Onboard Offering, Villa Vie Residences ensures that residents enjoy a guaranteed Outside Cabin and full access to all amenities onboard at no additional charge. This includes everything from medical check-ups and spa treatments to nail and hair appointments—and even refreshing pina coladas. "At Villa Vie Residences, we continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in cruise retirement, and our latest program is the ultimate way to secure the best life for the rest of your life," said Mikael Petterson, Founder and Chairman of Villa Vie Residences. "We've redefined retirement to perfection—no stress, no worries, just endless enjoyment and adventure." The Villa Vie Odyssey is currently finishing up its South American segment and will transit the Panama Canal this spring. This summer, it will travel up the west coast of the U.S. for an extended Alaska season before heading to Japan. "Our one-of-a-kind offering redefines retirement with an all-inclusive lifestyle like no other," said Kathy Villalba, Chief Executive Officer of Villa Vie Residences. "Imagine leaving behind traffic, stress, and the daily grind to embark on a seamless journey with a community of like-minded explorers—all for one transparent, affordable upfront cost." Villa Vie will host its US inaugural and press events at Catalina Island (Los Angeles) on June 18, 2025. For details and media inquiries, please contact media@ About Villa Vie ResidencesVilla Vie Residences reimagines cruise ship living with flexible, long-term options that cater to today's travelers. Its Continual World Cruise explores more than 425 ports in over 140 countries across seven continents every three and a half years. Residents choose to own, rent, or lease for life through the Endless Horizons Program, enjoying a unique blend of home comfort and global discovery. Contact:Villa Vie ResidencesEmail: media@ For images and assets, please click here View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Villa Vie Residences Sign in to access your portfolio
