The vessel, owned by an American company, offered retirees an 'eternal' life at sea format. However, due to a sharp rise in fuel prices, the liner ran out of funds, leading to the forced disembarkation of passengers in the Cambodian city of Sihanoukville.
Vessel arrest and current situation
Following the incident in Cambodia, the vessel arrived in Singapore, where it was detained in accordance with a court order. According to documents, the liner is under 'sheriff's arrest' off the coast of the city-state. This signifies a vessel seizure that is not necessarily linked to criminal charges.
From the document
"The vessel has been arrested in accordance with a court order. It is reported that the crew is doing well, and the vessel's creditors are attending to matters of their well-being and ensuring their comfort. There are no passengers on board."
According to the Straits Times, the liner is operated by Florida-based Villa Vie Residences. For vessels experiencing commercial difficulties, relocating to Singapore to resolve disputes is a common practice.
Context
The events affected more than two hundred people who were left stranded in a Cambodian port last month.
