Luxury cruise offers long-term getaway for voters.
A Florida-based cruise company has unveiled an unconventional way for disillusioned Americans to cope with the political climate under Donald Trump’s next term. Villa Vie Residences is marketing a luxury cruise designed as a four-year retreat, offering travellers the opportunity to explore the world while avoiding the turbulence of domestic politics.
Dubbed the “Tour La Vie,” the cruise visits over 425 ports across 140 countries, with prices starting at approximately $160,000 per person. The programme offers four distinct options, tailored to appeal to potential Democrat supporters. Packages include the “One-Year Escape from Reality,” the “Two-Year Mid-Term Selection,” the “Three-Year Everywhere but Home,” and the ultimate “Four-Year Skip Forward.”
Mikael Petterson, the founder and CEO of Villa Vie Residences, explained the rationale behind the campaign, saying: “If you’re looking for an escape… there is no better place than on a ship. You can wake up every day with a new view and have all your needs taken care of.”
Interestingly, Petterson revealed that the marketing campaign was planned long before the election results and would have been launched regardless of the outcome. However, he acknowledged that Trump’s victory has heightened interest among Democrats who may be feeling unsettled about staying in the US.
The company insists the campaign is not politically motivated but rather an invitation for anyone seeking a unique experience. “It’s not really a political campaign at all,” Petterson said. “It just happens that Trump won, and there are currently more Democrats dissatisfied with life in the US than Republicans.”
The cruise, aboard the Villa Vie Odyssey, can accommodate up to 600 residents at a time. Guests can join the voyage from numerous ports worldwide, allowing for flexibility in embarking and disembarking. The ship, however, faced an unexpected delay earlier this year, having been stranded in Belfast for four months due to essential repairs.
Villa Vie Residences has effectively tapped into post-election sentiments, offering a creative solution for those longing for a temporary respite from political realities. Whether the appeal lies in luxury travel or escapism, the concept has undeniably sparked interest among potential passengers.