life at sea cruises route

This Three-Year Cruise Visits 148 Countries on All Seven Continents

By Rachel Chang

Sailing around the world in 80 days may be legendary, but sailing around the world in 1,001 days is now a reality. This fall, Life at Sea Cruises ’ inaugural three-year cruise aboard the MV Lara will hit the high seas, taking passengers to 382 ports in 148 countries on all seven continents, all on one epic itinerary.

“The demand for long-term extended cruises has been growing in popularity in recent years,” Life at Sea Cruises CEO Kendra Holmes says. “This, coupled with more people able to work remotely and the increased cost of home ownership and renting showcased an opportunity to offer travelers the chance to embark on an adventure—except, in our case, the vacation doesn't have to end.”

Mixing work and play in this innovative way isn’t just efficient, it also cuts down on the hassle of constantly planning travel to dream destinations one at a time. After all, the 130,000-mile mega itinerary checks off major bucket list sites, including the Great Wall of China, Pyramids at Giza, Rome’s Colosseum, Petra in Jordan, Machu Picchu in Peru, India’s Taj Mahal, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer, and Ecuador's Galapagos Islands . Also on the docket: Yosemite National Park , Victoria Island, and Glacier Bay in North America; Wat Arun Temple, Ha Long Bay, and Pink Beach in Asia; and Ireland’s Giant’s Causeway, France’s Mont Saint Michel, and UK’s Windsor Castle in Europe.

The beauty of the extended voyage is that there isn’t that constant rush to get back to the ship. “Our longer port times truly empower residents to make the most of their time in each port,” Holmes says. “Days-long port times mean that residents can get the most out of each city we visit.”

Another perk is the mindfully curated sailing route (which is especially impressive on this interactive Google Earth map ). “Our itinerary places the MV Lara in the Northern Hemisphere in the summers and the Southern in the winters, so it’s always summer for Life At Sea Cruises,” she adds. Those sunny days include ringing New Year’s Days in Buenos Aires, Papua New Guinea, and the Maldives , and enjoying Valentine’s Days in Colombia, the French Polynesia , and en route to South Africa, as well as being in Asia for the Singapore Food Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival in South Korea, and Gion Matsuri in Japan.

In between the port stops, life on board is packed with possibilities, too. The ship is equipped with a pool deck, gym, spa, and auditorium that will host everything from movie screenings to live performances. International cuisine is offered at its multiple bars and restaurants, ranging from fine dining to casual eats. Daily activities will include dance lessons, karaoke sessions, and yoga practices, among others.

Inside a cabin on the new ship.

While the cruise is, at its core, a three-year getaway, the company realizes the need to stay connected with real life back on land, too. Remote workers can access free high-speed Wi-Fi and use the business center facilities. (Private office space is also available for rent for those who want to run their businesses from the ship.) Also, friends and families can visit by just paying the local port taxes and fees and staying in the cabins for free. Some guest cabins may also be available.

The all-inclusive fare for the three-year getaway starts at $43,860 per person per year, based on double accommodations. (A previously lower rate that started at $38,313 per person per year has already sold out.) Solo travelers will be charged a single supplement fee. Meals and weekly housekeeping are all included, but alcohol outside of dinner, shore excursions, spa services, and other premium services are an additional fee. Basic medical visits are also covered, while dental care, medical procedures, and prescriptions are offered at extra cost.

Operated by Aegan Sea operator Miray Cruises, the 629-cabin MV Lara can accommodate 1,266 passengers, but will only be run at 80 percent capacity. The ship is an upgrade in size from the MV Gemini that was originally announced for this journey back in March, according to CNN . Amid immediate skyrocketing demand, many of those working for the cruise company quit, reportedly because of disagreements over the ship that would be used. (Some of those who defected are now working on a rival cruise called the Villa Vie Residences that embarks on a three-and-a-half-year long itinerary to 420 destinations, starting May 15, 2024, from Southampton, England.)

Now back on track, the Life at Seas 36-month itinerary takes off November 1, 2023, from Istanbul, offering passengers the opportunity to embark in Barcelona on November 5, the Bahamas on November 15, or Puerto Rico on November 18, eventually returning after three trips around the sun to Istanbul on November 1, 2026. 

“Accomplishing a travel feat like this one outside of our voyage would be extremely difficult, logistically and financially,” Holmes says. “If people are interested in traveling the globe while enjoying life at sea, then our voyage is the right choice for them. “

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3-Year Cruise Itinerary at Sea Miray | Intended Rute, Expected Costs and 2024

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Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

If your goal has been to see the world, this may be the way to do it. Life at Sea Cruises is setting sail for the world’s first — and only — three-year world cruise, visiting 135 countries and seven continents. 

“Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” says Irina Strembitsky, director of sales & marketing at Life at Sea Cruises. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

About Life At Sea Cruises

Life at Sea Cruises is owned by Miray International , which has been bringing unique cruising experiences since 1996. It owns and operates the MV Gemini throughout the Aegean Sea, and the vessel Amor , which gives dinner and entertainment river cruises.

3-Year Cruise Itinerary at Sea Miray

The 130,000-mile journey begins on November 1st , 2023, from Istanbul , with pickups in Barcelona and Miami. The MV Gemini will visit 375 ports, allowing travelers to spend multiple days in some to explore. 

This ultimate bucket list cruise will take passengers to South America and Antarctica visiting 11 countries in 98 days. You’ll be able to explore cities, glaciers, and ice formations. 

For 67 days, the ship will explore the Caribbean and Central America with 29 destinations including Old San Juan, Puerto Rico, and the ancient Mayan ruins of Mexico and Belize. 

In North America and Hawaii, 98 days give you the chance to explore landscapes in Alaska, stunning beaches, interesting cultures, and go on adventures. 

On this sea cruise, you will visit 23 destinations including ancient temples and vibrant cities in northern Asia. Stops in Tokyo, Seoul, Jeju Island, and Shanghai give plenty of time to explore over 70 days. 

While on the longest leg of the journey for 206 days in the South Pacific and Australia, you’ll visit Sydney and Melbourne, the beaches of Fiji, the mountains of New Zealand, and the rainforests of Papua New Guinea. 

Visit the ruins of Angkor Wat while sailing the South China Sea and Serengeti, Zanzibar, and Madagascar in southern and western Africa. You’ll spot big game on a safari and experience local culture in ancient cities. 

In Europe, you’ll sail from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean visiting 38 countries and exploring art, historic monuments, and rich culture. 

‘MV Gemini’ Amenities 

It might seem hard to imagine living on a ship for three years, but the amenities on the MV Gemini make it possible. It has 400 cabins and room for up to 1,074 people. It has world-class dining, onboard entertainment, activities, and modern workspace facilities, which include a first-of-its-kind business center with 14 offices, a lounge, and a business library. 

There will also be a 24-hour, on-call hospital, which will include free medical visits, learning and enrichment classes, and opportunities to volunteer. 

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities, and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers,” says Mikael Petterson, managing director of Life at Sea Cruises. 

Cabins range from 130 square feet for Virtual Inside and Oceanview staterooms to 260 square feet for Balcony suites. Cruisers can enjoy a state-of-the-art wellness center, sundeck, swimming pool, and plenty of dining options. 

Cost To Cruise The World 

The three-year Life at Sea Cruises offers a starting price of $29,999 per year. Passengers have payment options from $2,499 per month. There is also the possibility that travelers can get additional tax benefits when working as international residents aboard the ship.

This cruise has been canceled . 

2024 Update

Why was life at sea’s 3-year cruise cancelled.

The  MV Gemini cruise ship was scheduled to set sail on November 30, with the original departure date having been rescheduled several times.

However, less than two weeks before its maiden voyage, Life at Sea has acknowledged to anxious passengers that there is no ship and that the once-in-a-lifetime trip has been canceled or ‘‘postponed’’, according to the company.

Miray Cruises said that anyone requesting a refund will get one and that it will reimburse travel expenses related to the cruise. The cruise company also claims it is planning a similar trip in 2024.

Future Still Looks Bright for Multy-Year Cruises in 2024

About a month after Life at Sea Cruises canceled its debut three-year voyage, Villa Vie Residences company upped the stakes by announcing plans to sail the world in 3.5 years. 

The price starts at $89 per day and includes food, laundry service, weekly housekeeping, and internet service. At an added charge you’ll get spa and bar services, and shore excursions. 

The ship will feature eight decks that will house three restaurants, a communal kitchen, a large pool with four Jacuzzis, a business center, and space for entertainment.

What Happened With Life at Sea’s 3-Year Cruise?

Life at Sea Cruises announced canceling its three-year voyage in November 2023 because the cruise company couldn’t secure a ship after plans had already been delayed several times. 

Is Miray Cruises Still Planning a 3-Year Cruise in 2024?

It’s quite possible. Miray Cruises owner Vedat Ugurlu said in a statement that the cruise wasn’t canceled but postponed until May 2024. He also stated that the reason for this postponement is the need for a bigger vessel capacity of more than 600 cabins.

What Did the Life at Sea’s 3-Year World Cruise Itinerary Looked Like?

The original itinerary was supposed to last 1,095 days, starting from Istanbul and Europe and then heading to South America and the Caribbean. The voyage would continue through the Panama Canal before visiting the U.S. West Coast, Hawaii, and Alaska and then heading west across the Pacific.

What UNESCO World Heritage Sites Can Be Visited on Life at Sea’s 3-Year World Cruise?

During the cruise of the seven continents, the passengers would see the pyramids of Giza in Egypt, Machu Picchu in Peru, the Great Wall of China, Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue, and India’s Taj Mahal.

Does Any Other Cruise Company Offer a 3-Year World Cruise?

Yes, Villa Vie Residences, plans to sail the world in three and a half years, after purchasing a 924-passenger ship that is expected to launch in May. The MS Breamer ship will undergo a renovation that will begin early in 2024 and take roughly eight weeks to complete.

Allison spent almost 20 years of her career as a TV news anchor. She’s covered everything from political conventions to Super Bowl LV to hurricanes and, most recently, the pandemic. She is a two-time Emmy award-winning journalist. She's been recognized for her work nationally and regionally by organizations including the Associated Press, the Society of Professional Journalists, and the Florida Association of Broadcast Journalists.

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They Sold Everything to Go on a 3-Year Cruise. How It All Unraveled.

The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience: 382 port calls worldwide over 1,095 days. The only thing missing was a trip-worthy ship.

By Ceylan Yeginsu

Kara and Joe Youssef sold their two apartments, withdrew their life savings, gave up most of their belongings and, in late October, set out for Istanbul for the trip of a lifetime: a three-year cruise around the world, scheduled to depart Nov. 1.

But in late November, after months of behind-the-scenes chaos, the Youssefs were stuck in Istanbul, with the cruise company canceling the trip. It did not have a ship that could handle the journey.

The Turkish company, Miray Cruises, had announced the cruise, called Life at Sea , in March. It claimed it would be the longest cruise ever — 382 port calls over 1,095 days — and a community at sea, with opportunities to explore the globe. Starlink internet and a business center would allow passengers to work remotely.

The cruise seemed ideal for a post-pandemic era, targeting people longing for an escape. With fares starting at $90,000 for an inside cabin and going up to $975,000 for a suite, the trip even seemed like a bargain to some prospective passengers, cheaper than living three years in many cities.

Within the first month of sales, more than half of the ship’s 400 cabins had been reserved. But putting together a cruise of this magnitude is a monumental task, requiring a ship large enough to carry hundreds of people, docking rights around the world and secure funding.

Like a high-seas version of the Fyre Festival, which promised a luxury music concert in the Bahamas and delivered cold sandwiches and makeshift tents, the cruise imploded. It has left people, like the Youssefs, frustrated and confused. Despite promised refunds, only a small portion of the money has been returned so far.

In an interview in December, Vedat Ugurlu, the owner of Miray, blamed a lack of financing and interest for the cruise’s cancellation.

“We tried everything to find a solution, but at the end of the day we couldn’t get the investors and we couldn’t sell enough cabins,” he said.

That has left Ms. Youssef, 36, a former humanitarian worker from Ohio, and her husband sitting in Istanbul with three suitcases and a carry-on, waiting for a refund of $80,000.

“They kept leading us on, making us hold out hope until the very last minute, just days before we were supposed to depart,” she said. “We sold everything we have to make this dream happen. We feel completely defeated.”

A big dream, but no ship to sail on

In June 2022, as the cruise industry was recovering from its pandemic shutdown, Mikael Petterson, an entrepreneur based in Miami, had an idea for a three-year cruise. Long-term cruises are not unheard-of, but they usually last a year at most, because of the logistics involved.

Mr. Petterson had plans to hit destinations all over the world. What he did not have was a ship. Through a broker, he was introduced to Miray International, which had been offering voyages and cruise-operation services since 1996.

Mr. Ugurlu, the owner of Miray, suggested the MV Gemini. He had acquired the 400-cabin, 1,074-passenger vessel in 2019, and had mainly used it for excursions between Turkey and the Greek islands.

Mr. Petterson couldn’t afford to buy the ship, so instead the two groups joined forces. He would do the marketing while Miray took care of operations.

In November 2022, Mr. Petterson signed a three-month contract to develop their new brand: Life at Sea Cruises. He had not seen the Gemini, but said that he trusted Miray’s nearly 30 years of experience.

Kendra Holmes, then vice president for business development strategy at Miray, said the company had not only the vessel but a budget of about $10 million to refurbish it for such a long cruise. It also had the experience and staff required, she said.

Mr. Petterson visited Turkey in December 2022 and saw the Gemini, but said his focus was on design and creating renderings for marketing. He planned to carry out a technical inspection later, he said.

“The cabin configuration was perfect for the pricings and affordability we were marketing,” he said.

On March 1, 2023, Life at Sea began selling space on the cruise, drawing millions of clicks to a newly created website. “It just blew up, and we could barely keep up,” Mr. Petterson recalled.

Many of the prospective passengers had never been on a cruise. Keri Witman, 56, a marketing executive from Cincinnati, was looking for a change, a new community and adventure.

She liked the ability to travel while continuing to work. “This seemed like the perfect opportunity,” she said.

Ms. Witman was one of the first to book in April. She asked a lawyer to look into the company and, after finding no red flags, placed a $5,000 deposit for her $185,120 cabin and put her house up for sale.

Refueling concerns: Is this the right ship?

When Mr. Petterson returned to the Gemini in April, questions were raised about the ship and its itinerary. Could it even hold enough fuel to sail between some of the more distant ports? In an audio note sent to his team, Robert Dixon, the itinerary planner, said he was denied access to the engine room and was told by an engineer that the vessel could not hold enough fuel to cross the Atlantic Ocean on schedule. He also raised concerns about a planned crossing in the South Pacific.

“Even if you spend another $10 million on that ship, I don’t think it is enough to do what we want to do,” Mr. Dixon said in the recording. He declined to be interviewed.

Beyond that, there were questions about Gemini’s size. If the cruise sold out its 1,074 capacity, would there be enough space for people to lounge or work, as many of them planned to do, for three years?

A pizza shop in Orlando

Amid questions about the Gemini, tensions started to build. Mr. Petterson’s team complained that it could not process credit card transactions and lacked an escrow account to secure deposits, as is common in the United States.

Miray had expected the sales team to collect the full fare upfront, but asking for hundreds of thousands of dollars at once was prohibitive. Mr. Petterson introduced an installment plan, which helped boost sales, but caught Miray unprepared. And there was no account in the United States for the sales team to use as it secured reservations.

The head of Miray, Mr. Ugurlu, owned a pizza parlor in Orlando, Fla., and Mr. Petterson said the company asked him to deposit the initial payments into the shop’s account. According to Ms. Holmes, that was suggested as a temporary solution.

Miray pursued other ways to accept payments, including the use of Square, the online payment platform, but after Miray had a dispute with Square, Mr. Petterson, concerned at the lack of secure ways to hold deposits, asked the company to refund all the clients’ deposits. Worried that the cruise was in jeopardy, passengers canceled reservations for at least 25 cabins.

‘We felt very nervous’

In May, amid the turmoil, the Youssefs attended a webinar for prospective passengers, but heard nothing about payment issues. The couple was assured, even on another ship, that the cruise would depart on Nov. 1. On May 6, they put down a $5,000 deposit and were told that a 25 percent payment was due on June 7.

By then, Mr. Petterson had left the company. The internal corporate squabbling became public on the app and Facebook page created for the cruise. Mr. Petterson told passengers that Life at Sea was dismantled, and that Miray was refusing to answer critical questions. He urged passengers to complain to U.S. maritime authorities.

Ms. Holmes, of Miray, portrays Mr. Petterson as the loser in a power struggle. “It got to the point where somebody can’t be the captain, so they try to sink the whole ship,” she said. She became chief executive of Life at Sea and began working to reassure passengers.

Confusion and panic set in among the passengers, many of whom had already started uprooting their lives. “We felt very nervous, first sitting through one webinar with the team that left, then with Kendra Holmes,” Ms. Youssef recalled.

But in the weeks that followed, Ms. Youssef said she felt more comfortable as Ms. Holmes and her team hosted daily webinars focusing on getting a new ship.

“Kendra was very convincing and dedicated,” Ms. Youssef said, noting that “she was very realistic, whereas Mikael had promised us the sun and the moon.”

In a webinar on May 31, Ms. Holmes said that the company had decided not to set up an escrow account. She said that it would use another method of protecting passenger deposits, a bond filed with the Federal Maritime Commission, a U.S. agency that helps to regulate ocean transportation. But the bond was never filed.

A new ship and the scramble for investors

In early July, Life at Sea announced that “due to unprecedented demand,” it had acquired a larger 627-cabin ship — to be named the MV Lara. In actuality, the company had put down a deposit and was negotiating to buy the Lara with the help of investors, at a cost Mr. Ugurlu later put at between $40 million and $50 million.

At that time, Mary Rader, 68, a retired social worker from Westchester County, N.Y., asked a travel agency to look into Miray Cruises and was told it was reputable. When a couple offered to transfer their cabin to her at a discounted rate, she took the opportunity, withdrawing $80,000 from her retirement savings.

Ms. Rader made two payments, $50,000 and $35,000, but said she never received a receipt and the couple never received a refund. She eventually got a boarding pass, but on the cruise app, she and the couple were listed in the same cabin.

“This is when I started to see all the red flags, but I was trapped because I had already made the payments,” she said.

In September, the Youssefs sold their apartment to keep up with their cruise payments; others started applying for visas, shipping belongings to Istanbul and making arrangements for their pets.

At that point, although only 111 of the ship’s 627 cabins had been sold, passengers who had signed up were assured that the ship would sail, even with as few as two passengers.

On Sept. 26, the day the payment was due to secure the Lara, Ms. Holmes received a call from Miray’s owner, Mr. Ugurlu, saying the lead investor had dropped out, but that he was working on other candidates. After receiving some cancellation requests, Ms. Holmes posted in the cruise app that, according to the contract’s terms, passengers who canceled now would only receive a 10 percent refund.

By Oct. 27, only days before the cruise’s scheduled departure — and with 30 passengers in Istanbul, ready to board — the company announced the trip had been delayed to Nov. 11 and would depart from Amsterdam. Days later, the departure was postponed again, to Nov. 30.

On Nov. 16, Ms. Youssef learned from a newspaper that the Lara had been acquired by another company. “We were frustrated and felt stuck in limbo, with no information to go on but what we discovered on our own,” she said. Ms. Holmes resigned from Miray the same day.

On Nov. 19, Mr. Ugurlu issued a statement saying that investors had pulled out because of the unrest in the Middle East; the next day Miray confirmed that the cruise was canceled.

Waiting for refunds

A day later, passengers were asked to sign an agreement with Miray, which would spread refund repayments over three months, from December to February. The first deadline passed on Dec. 22, with only some passengers getting any money. Miray said that the delay was caused by banks’ requesting extra documentation.

The Youssefs said on Dec. 28 that they had still not received their refund. For the past month they have been living in a hotel in Istanbul paid for by the cruise company.

“We could soon be homeless,” Ms. Youssef said.

Miray, Ms. Holmes and Mr. Petterson are now separately working on other three-year cruises, to launch next year.

Ms. Rader, the retired social worker, is not hopeful. “I have received nothing yet, but I did not expect to,” she said. “My guess is that the company will be shut down or restructured, and anything I put in cash will never get paid out.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Ceylan Yeginsu is a travel reporter. She was previously a correspondent for the International desk in Britain and Turkey, covering politics; social justice; the migrant crisis; the Kurdish conflict, and the rise of Islamic State extremism in Syria and the region. More about Ceylan Yeginsu

Come Sail Away

Love them or hate them, cruises can provide a unique perspective on travel..

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Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

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Would You Take a 3-Year Cruise? Ship Will Visit 135 Countries on All 7 Continents for $30,000 Per Year

Life at Sea Cruises is offering a unique opportunity to leave life on land behind

Natalia Senanayake is an Editorial Assistant, Lifestyle at PEOPLE. She covers all things travel and home, from celebrities' luxury mansions to breaking travel news.

Life at Sea Cruises is offering adventurous guests to leave behind their land-based lifestyle.

On March 1, cruise line Miray International officially started accepting bookings for the first-ever world cruise aboard their MV Gemini ship. The three-year voyage allows cruisers to live on the ship and visit seven continents, 135 countries and 375 ports.

The starting cost of $29,999 a year, or $2,499 a month with a payment plan, is for a standard interior cabin. The most luxurious suite on board with a large balcony goes for $109,000 per year.

"Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home," says Irina Strembitsky, the company's director of sales and marketing. "It's your home at sea with the world as your backyard."

Setting sail on November 1, 2023, Life at Sea Cruises will begin its lengthy voyage starting in Istanbul, Turkey, with pickups in Barcelona, Spain and Miami, Florida.

The MV Gemini is designed to accommodate 1,074 passengers across 400 luxury cabins. Oceanview staterooms offer guests their own private balcony, while other passengers can soak up the sun at the ship's sundeck and swimming pool.

It is also equipped with an auditorium, wellness center and a 24-hour, on-call hospital that includes free medical visits.

There are several restaurant and bar offerings on board.

For remote workers, the ship offers a unique business center that boasts 14 offices, various meeting rooms, a lounge and a business library.

"Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers" says Mikael Petterson, Life at Sea Cruises' managing director.

Along with experiencing 13 wonders of the world and UNESCO world heritage sites — the ship stops at the pyramids of Giza, Machu Picchu and the Taj Mahal, among others —cruisers can socialize and enjoy a variety of activities on board, including karaoke, golfing, yoga classes and more.

For those who feel 3 years at sea is just the beginning, Afar points out another company, Storylines cruises , recently announced a ship that will sail indefinitely starting in 2024.

Visit lifeatseacruises.com for booking information.

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This 3-year Cruise Visits 135 Countries on 7 Continents — and It Might Cost Less Than You Pay in Rent

Welcome to the Work From Ship life.

Want to set sail and just keep going? Life at Sea Cruises just announced it’s accepting reservations on its first-ever, three-year cruise, which will travel 130,000 miles, visit 135 countries across seven continents, and stop in 375 ports of call, all aboard the MV Gemini .

At each port, the vessel will stay docked for multiple days to allow its passengers to explore at their leisure. It visits 13 wonders of the world, including Egypt's Pyramids of Giza and Mexico's Chichén Itzá, and more than 100 islands, including numerous Caribbean and Central American visits. The cruise also spends 98 days in South American and Antarctica.

Courtesy of Life at Sea

The ship provides everything one would need to live at sea for several years, including spacious cabins, dining and entertainment options, recreational areas like a wellness center, sun deck, and pool, and plentiful work spaces for those who want to live the digital nomad life at sea. That includes a business center with meeting rooms, 14 offices, and a business library for all Zoom call needs. 

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities, and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers,” said Mikael Petterson, the managing director of Life at Sea Cruises, in a statement released to Travel + Leisure .

The ship also has other practical amenities, including a 24-hour hospital, which offers guests free medical visits, learning experiences for guests like lectures and classes, and volunteer opportunities at various ports. 

“Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” Irina Strembitsky, director of sales and marketing, added in the statement. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

The three-year voyage departs from Istanbul on Nov. 1, 2023, with additional pick-ups in Barcelona and Miami later in 2023. Pricing begins at $29,999 per year. The company also offers payment options starting from $2,499 per month, which includes food and beverage. Cabin options range from 130-square-foot interior rooms to 260-square-foot balcony suites. See more about the sailing and make your booking at lifeatseacruises.com . 

• Life at Sea Cruises Debuts World’s First Three-Year World Cruise
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Life at Sea Cruises announced today they are accepting reservations for the world’s first - and only – three-year world cruise. The voyage will cover more than 130,000 miles, visiting 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents.

Set aboard the beautifully revitalized MV Gemini ( CruiseMapper ) - which boasts 400 cabins and room for up to 1,074 passengers - cruisers will enjoy the best of living and working at sea. The ship features traditional amenities including world-class dining, onboard entertainment and recreational activities, with modern workspace facilities such as a first-of-its-kind business center with meeting rooms, 14 offices, a relaxing lounge and business library. The ship will also include a 24-hour on-call hospital with free medical visits, learning and enrichment classes and the opportunity to make a positive impact through volunteer and philanthropic initiatives.

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers” says Mikael Petterson, Managing Director of Life at Sea Cruises. With prices starting at $29,999 per year, and payment options from $2,499 per month all-inclusive, cabins range from 130 sq ft for Virtual Inside and Oceanview staterooms to 260 sq ft Balcony Suites. All residents will enjoy amenities including a state-of-the-art wellness center, sundeck and swimming pool, auditorium and multiple dining options. Cruisers may also enjoy additional tax benefits when working as an international resident aboard the ship. “Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” says Irina Strembitsky, Director of Sales & Marketing of Life at Sea Cruises. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

Each stop on the MV Gemini itinerary - which includes 13 of the Wonders of the World - plans for multiple days in port, allowing travelers the opportunity for exploration at their own pace. Life At Sea Cruises is a world cruise product offered by Miray International, known for providing high quality hospitality services to cruise companies worldwide for nearly three decades.

The MV Gemini will begin its three-year voyage on November 1st, 2023, from Istanbul (with pickups in Barcelona and Miami).

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Map: Sail on an epic, 3-year-long 'world cruise' that visits Vancouver at a steal

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While many Vancouverites plan on going on a bucket-list trip after they retire, it isn't always an affordable option. 

The price of month-long vacations can get pretty steep, especially if they are located in highly sought-after destinations or include transportation to various cities or countries — and that's where cruising comes in. 

On virtually any major ocean liner, the cost per diem for the journey goes down the longer that you stay at sea. There are a couple of short repositioning cruises up the Pacific coast that offer comparable per diem prices, but generally the longer the voyage the less you pay. 

For example, a 31-day cruise from Vancouver to Sydney, Australia with Princess Cruises costs $4,366.24 per person including all taxes and fees. This price works out to roughly $140.85 a day. Similarly, a 32-night cruise from Vancouver to Barcelona, Spain with Cunard Cruises costs $3,572.61 per person, which works out to a per diem cost of $111.64. 

Not only do these prices include the cost of your transportation on a beautiful five-star vessel, but it also includes meals, entertainment, snacks and lodging. The only thing it doesn’t factor in is alcohol, but you may opt to purchase a drink package that can reduce the cost of your spending.

Life at Sea Cruises offers a unique retirement option

While it won't last the entirety of your retirement, you can spend a whopping three years at sea covering over 130,000 miles with a new option called  Life at Sea Cruises  by Miray Cruises, owned by Miray International. The voyage takes guests on a quintessential "bucket-list" journey, visiting 13 of 14 "world wonders" — depending on what list of "world wonders" you consult. 

You can view an interactive map of the cruise itinerary  with Google Earth, outlining the route to seven continents with stops in 375 destinations. Guests will sail on the revitalized MV Gemini, which has 400 cabins with room for up to 1,074 passengers.

The "Around the World in 3 Years" cruise disembarks on Nov. 1, 2023, from Istanbul, Turkey's vibrant capital city. It will take guests on a journey through South America and Antarctica, the Caribbean and Central America, Asia, the South China Sea, and through the South Pacific, Australia, Europe and North America.

The cruise will also overnight in Vancouver on July 8, 2024, before it overnights in Victoria on July 9, 2024. After this, it will make its way to Alaska, where it will visit several destinations until Aug. 24, 2024.

Described as "the first reasonably priced, all-inclusive world cruise," prices start at $29,999 per year and include access to all onboard dining options, wine with dinner, soft drinks, juice, tea, coffee, a golf simulator, entertainment, performances, high-speed internet, port fees, taxes, free friends and family visits, gym, laundry and more. 

Find out more information about Life at Sea Cruises online .

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Life at Sea Cruises debuts world’s first three-year world cruise

Cabins range from 130 sq ft for Virtual Inside and Oceanview staterooms to 260 sq ft Balcony Suites.

MIAMI, FL – Life at Sea Cruises announced they are accepting reservations for the world’s first – and only – three-year world cruise. The voyage will cover more than 130,000 miles, visiting 375 ports across 135 countries and seven continents.

Set aboard the beautifully revitalized MV Gemini – which boasts 400 cabins and room for up to 1,074 passengers – cruisers will enjoy the best of living and working at sea. The ship features traditional amenities including world-class dining, onboard entertainment, and recreational activities, with modern workspace facilities such as a first-of-its-kind business center with meeting rooms, 14 offices, a relaxing lounge and business library. The ship will also include a 24-hour on-call hospital with free medical visits, learning and enrichment classes and the opportunity to make a positive impact through volunteer and philanthropic initiatives.

“Professionals need connectivity, the right amenities, and the functionality to perform their jobs. There is no other cruise product that offers this sort of flexibility to their customers” says Mikael Petterson , Managing Director of Life at Sea Cruises.

Cabins range from 130 sq ft for Virtual Inside and Oceanview staterooms to 260 sq ft Balcony Suites. All residents will enjoy amenities including a state-of-the-art wellness center, sundeck and swimming pool, auditorium, and multiple dining options. Cruisers may also enjoy additional tax benefits when working as an international resident aboard the ship.

“Life at Sea Cruises offers the ultimate bucket list cruise without having to sacrifice the comforts of home,” says Irina Strembitsky , Director of Sales & Marketing of Life at Sea Cruises. “It’s your home at sea with the world as your backyard.”

Each stop on the MV Gemini itinerary – which includes 13 of the Wonders of the World – plans for multiple days in port, allowing travelers the opportunity for exploration at their own pace. Life At Sea Cruises is a world cruise product offered by Miray International, known for providing high quality hospitality services to cruise companies worldwide for nearly three decades.

The MV Gemini will begin its three-year voyage on November 1st, 2023, from Istanbul (with pickups in Barcelona and Miami).

Vicky Karantzavelou

Vicky  is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the  Editor-in Chief . She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.

She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.

• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ European Cyclists’ Federation re-elects president and welcomes new and returning board members
• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Aviation leaders convened for the EUROCAE Symposium, marking a return to its birthplace in Lucerne
• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Alaska Airlines expands presence in Southern California with new routes and increased service to popular West Coast destinations
• Vicky Karantzavelou https://www.traveldailynews.com/author/vicky-karantzavelou/ Macau becomes the “Preferred Destination” of European travel agents and Tour Operators for 2025

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They had signed up for the experience of a lifetime: three years traveling the world from the comfort of a cruise ship, at prices that rivaled regular living expenses.

But now the dream is over for passengers who'd signed up for Life at Sea Cruises' inaugural three-year voyage. After weeks of silence, the company has acknowledged to passengers that it has no ship, and has canceled the departure, vowing to refund those who'd signed up for cruises costing up to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

The cruise was originally due to depart Istanbul, Turkey, on November 1, but shortly before that date, departure was postponed to November 11 and relocated to Amsterdam in the Netherlands, and then to November 30, again from Amsterdam. But on November 17 - less than two weeks before the third departure date - passengers were informed the cruise was off.

Some of the passengers who booked the 111 cabins sold are still in Istanbul, having made their way there ahead of the original departure date. Others say they have nowhere to return to, having sold or rented out their homes in anticipation of the round-the-world voyage, as well as jettisoning their possessions.

Most have spent tens of thousands of dollars on what was meant to be the experience of a lifetime, and now face a wait of at least several months to get their money back. The company has said it will make repayments in monthly installments, starting from mid-December and completing repayments in late February. It has also offered to pay for accommodation until December 1 and flights home for anyone now stranded in Istanbul. But some say they have no homes to return to.

"There's a whole lot of people right now with nowhere to go, and some need their refund to even plan a place to go - it's not good right now," said one passenger, who wished to remain anonymous until they get their promised refund.

Running aground

Life at Sea Cruises had been planning to buy the AIDAaura, a ship retired this summer by AIDA Cruises, a German subsidiary of Carnival Corp. It was due to be rechristened as the MV Lara. The company had originally slated the sale to go through by the end of September, before working on the ship in dry dock in Germany, then renovating it before sailing to Istanbul to start the cruise.

But after six weeks of uncertainty, during which Life at Sea repeatedly told guests that the sale was taking longer than planned, on November 16 another company, Celestyal Cruises, announced that it had bought the AIDAaura.

A day later, Life at Sea's former CEO Kendra Holmes - who had resigned days earlier and said she was not speaking on behalf of the parent company, Miray Cruises - recorded a 15-minute video for passengers, admitting that the cruise would not be going ahead. It's unclear why Holmes was chosen to make the announcement, which was provided to CNN by a passenger. She has declined to comment to CNN.

Forty eight hours after Holmes' video, passengers received a message from Vedat Ugurlu, the owner of Miray Cruises, which owns Life at Sea. Declaring himself "extremely sorry for the inconvenience," he confirmed the cruise would not be departing as planned. The reason: they couldn't afford the ship.

In his message, Ugurlu claimed that "Miray is not such a big company to afford to pay 40-50 million for a ship," but that it had "presented the project to investors, and had official approval from some of them to buy the vessel."

He said that while the company had made the down payment for the ship, the investors "declined to support us further due to unrest in the Middle East."

Hamas attacked Israel on October 7, a week after the ship's sale was originally supposed to have concluded. Life at Sea didn't respond to a query about what prior unrest they were referring to that could have impeded the completion of the transaction.

Ugurlu also told passengers that day that the company then tried and failed to buy another ship, and that it was working on a third.

"If we will not be able to sail on December 1, we will offer you to sail on another departure date or refund all the payments within a short schedule," he wrote. "We have tried everything to make your dreams come true and we will continue to do so."

He added that the company could, in theory, launch the cruise on the MV Gemini, Miray's smaller ship which it had originally planned for the voyage, before deciding it was too small.

"We choose not to because we have promised you a larger, newer vessel," he wrote. The Gemini is at the heart of a defamation lawsuit brought by Miray against former managing director of Life at Sea Cruises, Mikael Petterson, who was one of several employees to split from the team in May . The lawsuit states that Petterson called the ship "unseaworthy" - a claim that Miray vehemently denied.

Ups and downs

Just a day after Ugurlu's glimmer of hope, another staff member of Life at Sea, Chief Operating Officer Ethem Bayramoglu messaged passengers to confirm that the cruise was off. "In case we weren't clear, the Life at Sea cruise trip is canceled," Bayramoglu wrote, giving instructions on the refund process, and how passengers can retrieve "pods" full of their belongings - which they'd shipped in advance of the cruise.

Yet at the same time, Bayramoglu added, the company "intend [ s ] to honor our commitments."

"Although we are all disappointed and frustrated that we didn't sail this time, it is important to us that you feel positive overall about your experience with us," the message reads. "Vedat in particular is still hopeful that Miray will someday soon have an option for you to consider."

Bayramoglu subsequently met with stranded passengers in Istanbul to help plan their returns home.

Stormy waters

Would-be cruisers - who wanted to remain anonymous until their refunds come through - have told CNN of their shock and dismay that the trip has been canceled. Some had sold their homes or wound up businesses to join the cruise.

"I'm very sad, angry and lost," said one. "I had the next three years of my life planned to live an extraordinary life, and now [ I have ] nothing. I'm having a hard time moving forward.

"I was proud and feeling brave, now I don't trust anyone or anything. I know it'll work out and life will go on, but I'm uncertain of the direction."

Another said they felt "incredibly sad and incredibly betrayed."

"The company seems to have no consideration about what they've done to our lives," they said.

"I never imagined I'd be in this position as a senior citizen."

They also lamented the loss of community that had been built in the run-up to the cruise: "I was looking forward to building friendships - that's what made it different from a regular cruise. We were all of the same mindset and all started with the same thing in common."

A third, speaking just before the cruise was confirmed as canceled, said they were feeling "let down, deceived and betrayed."

Jumping ship

In the meantime, Life at Sea's erstwhile CEO, Kendra Holmes, who resigned last week, claims she's planning to offer a new long-term cruise with a different company.

In her 15-minute video address to Life at Sea passengers on Friday - despite having already resigned from the company - she solicited interest in a long-term, round-the-world cruise offered by a new company that she'll be working with, which she named as HLC Cruises.

Holmes didn't respond to questions from CNN, but a spokesperson for HLC Cruises , who said they were on the company board, confirmed Holmes was the company's new CEO and told CNN: "We have nothing to do with Life at Sea, we do not want our name to be associated with them, but we are working on something and are trying to help people who are left without homes if we can." Its website currently advertises "boutique cruise liners" selling duty free gold bullion, diamonds and gems onboard.

Holmes told stranded Life at Sea passengers that if 60 or 70 of them "transferred" to the new company, they would be able to "get something going" by the first week of December, and already had approval from the HLC board to do so.

The company would get a temporary ship to sail for three or four months, she said, while purchasing a permanent vessel for a longer voyage to start next year. If Life at Sea passengers didn't take up the offer, she said, they'd also be looking to launch a long-term cruise in October 2024.

"There's a lot of ships out there so we'll get something in place probably early next week then start looking for a permanent vessel," she said on November 17 - before updating them via social media 72 hours later that the offer of a temporary cruise was, in fact, off, and that HLC was "targeting an official start date sometime in March."

"People got their hopes up once again only to be dashed a few days later - I'm surprised no one in the group has had a heart attack," said one would-be passenger.

Meanwhile, Villa Vie Residences - the company set up by Petterson and the other former Life at Sea staffers who left in May to start their own rival business - is promising low deposits and guaranteed introductory rates for anyone who wants to join them. They do not as yet have a ship or a launch date, either.

Life at Sea Cruises and Miray Cruises did not respond to specific questions from CNN, but sent a statement from Ugurlu addressed to passengers citing "investor withdrawal" causing "challenges" to the project. The letter was sent to CNN November 21 and spoke about a potential upcoming cruise date - despite the cruise having already been canceled.

"While we're in talks to acquire a similar vessel, if the December 1 sail is jeopardized, we offer alternative departure dates or expedited refunds," said the statement, which went on to describe the refund process.

"As we navigate these challenges, we are actively working on creating alternative plans for the future, ensuring an unforgettable experience for our valued community," it concluded.

"I regret any inconvenience and assure you of our commitment."

One passenger from the failed cruise, however, is feeling more than inconvenienced.

"I'm in a state of disbelief that they've done this to us," they said, adding that staff had started out "eager and confident, and then the past few months just slowly disappeared."

"I can't even begin to wrap my head around the disappointment of losing this opportunity," they said.

"I don't think they will ever understand how much damage they've caused us."

The CNN Wire ™ & © 2023 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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Former names: Celestyal Nefeli, Vision Star, Superstar Gemini, Cunard Crown Jewel

Cruise line Miray Life at Sea Cruises (Small Cruise Lines)

MV Gemini current position

MV Gemini current location is at Aegean Sea (coordinates 36.85427 N / 25.01069 E) cruising at speed of 11.7 kn (22 km/h | 13 mph) en route to Santorini Island. The AIS position was reported 4 minutes ago.

Specifications of MV Gemini

•   Review
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MV Gemini Review

Review of mv gemini.

The 1992-built MS Gemini cruise ship (fka "Celestyal Nefeli", and previously as "Gemini" for the now-defunct Quail Travel Group) was launched as "Crown Jewel" for Crown Cruise Line (1984-founded/2001-defunct). The luxurious passenger liner features a unique yacht-like design, stylish lounges, cozy dining venues, open promenades. The boat was previously operated by Louis Cruises (rebranded in 2014 to Celestyal Cruises ).

The vessel (IMO number 9000687) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311000160) and registered in Nassau .

The boat was last refurbished by Celestyal in 2016. During the drydock in 2022 (by Miray International) the hull's color was changed from white to blue.

IMPORTANT : On June 29, 2023, Miray Cruises announced that its new travel brand's ("Life at Sea Cruises") 3-year-long World Voyage (roundtrip from Istanbul Turkey leaving on November 1st/2023) would be on AIDAaura (renamed MV Lara) instead of the initially scheduled MV Gemini. Eventually (in November 2023), the entire project was canceled.

History - construction and ownership

Crown Jewel/Gemini is the largest cruise ship ever built in Spain (at Union Navale de Levante shipyard in Valencia ). Crown Cruise Line used the vessel for cruises from the USA ( NYC ) to the Caribbean, Bermuda and Canada. In 1993, after being chartered to Cunard Line , the ship was renamed "Cunard Crown Jewel". In 1995, it was sold to Star Cruises , renamed "SuperStar Gemini" and homeported in Singapore .

Delivered to Crown Cruise Line in July and inaugurated in September 1992, Crown Jewel operated on roundtrips from the USA (homeport NYC New York ) visiting port cities in New England and Canada. During the inaugural 1992 season, the boat also offered Panama Canal voyages (October-November) followed by the Caribbean winter deployment based on homeporting in West Palm Beach (Florida) . The 7-night itineraries visited destinations in Martinique and Saint Bartholemy.

Fun fact is that during the "Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games" (July 25-Aug 9) and the "2012 Summer Paralympics" (Aug 29-Sept 9) the liner was chartered as a floating hotel.

In September 2007, Star Cruises announced that SuperStar Gemini had been sold and in December 2008 left the fleet. Reportedly the new shipowner was Jewel Owner Ltd (part of the Bahamas-based Clipper Group of Denmark), which in 2009 chartered the vessel to a new operator. In 2008, Clipper Group announced that it would rename the vessel "Vision Star" and lease it to Vision Cruceros (Spanish brand/defunct since March 2009).

In early-2009, Mediterranean Classic Cruises was booking voyages in the Aegean Sea aboard Vision Star. However, these sailings were canceled due to the non-availability of Vision Star (from Vision Cruceros). Instead, SuperStar Gemini was renamed Gemini, and until 2011 had a Spanish operator, Quail Travel Group. Since the bankruptcy of Quail Travel in 2011, the cruise ship Gemini was laid up at Tilbury Docks (Essex England) awaiting charter or sale.

In July 2020, Miray International started its own brand ("Miray Cruises") by a multi-year chartering of MV Gemini (inaugural cruise for Miray was scheduled for August 31st).

Prior to the Life at Sea Cruises service, MV Gemini was scheduled for an extensive drydock refurbishment . The drydocking project included the addition of a Business Center (2x meeting rooms and 14x offices/available for rent), Library, Relaxation Lounge, Cafe Bar. The Business Center is fitted with large LED screens, modern audio-video equipment, printers, Wi-Fi Internet, and is served by dedicated assistance staff.

Decks and Cabins

Celestyal Nefeli/Gemini ship has a total of 400 staterooms (max capacity 1074 passengers) and 8 decks (5 with cabins). Of all Celestyal Nefeli cabins, 10 are Suite-grade accommodations each with a private balcony. The ship has a total of 277 oceanview staterooms (including the 10 suites) and 123 interior cabins.

Of all outside accommodations, 12 are Executive Suites and 31 are Junior Suites. Most Executive Suites have private step-out balconies. Junior Suites are with extra storage space.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

With two eating outlets to choose from, cruisers might enjoy the sumptuous Greek and Mediterranean kitchen onboard as well as 24-hour room service. The Aegean Restaurant is the main dining room onboard Celestyal Nefeli. It is complimentary, features Greek cuisine specialties, and also has a dinner a la carte menu. The MDR restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Leda Casual Dining is a buffet-style venue for alfresco dining with an outdoor seating area. Continental Breakfast (7-8:30 am) and Afternoon Tea (4-5 pm) are also served here.

The boat's standout feature is the 5-deck high, glass-walled Atrium with windows overlooking the sea. Onboard facilities include 5 bars, 4 lounges, a swimming pool, an outdoor Jacuzzi/spa pool, Oscar's Beauty Center, Casino Bar & Lounge, Business Center.

Onboard enrichment programming includes guest lectures and various classes.

The ship has a 24-hour Infirmary (on-call hospital) served by professional staff and operated with free medical visits.

Itineraries

Celestyal Nefeli's itinerary program offered Eastern Mediterranean voyages to ports in Greece and Turkey. The 7-day itineraries were out of Piraeus-Athens and Istanbul (overnight stay). From Izmir (Turkey) were offered Greek Islands cruises to Mykonos , Patmos , Rhodes , Crete (Chania) , Santorini and returning to Athens.

Next photo shows the Nefeli ship passing through Corinth Canal .

Miray Cruises Turkey specializes in Aegean Sea voyages (short break/3-4-night Greek Isles itineraries) leaving roundtrip from homeports Piraeus-Athens Greece and Cesme Turkey . The itineraries visit some of Greece's most popular islands ( Mykonos , Santorini , Syros ) plus Turkey (Cesme). Longer voyages additionally visit Rhodes .

Miray Cruises' MV Gemini ship charters are seasonal, in the period March-April through September-October.

During layup periods (winter months) the vessel remains docked at Port Keratsini (suburb of Athens City).

Miray Cruises 2022 program (May 15th thru Oct 20th) was based on Eastern Mediterranean voyages. MV Gemini's schedule included 3-day and 4-day itineraries (all roundtrips from Cesme) visiting the Greek islands Mykonos, Santorini, and Rhodes, and also Piraeus-Athens.

Miray Cruises 2023 program started on March 19th, out of Cesme. Traditionally, the schedule included 3-4-day Greek Islands roundtrips from Cesme and Piraeus. In the period February 19-March 18, the ship served as a hotel providing relief housing for homeless families after the Turkey-Syria 2023 earthquake (Feb 6th).

MV Gemini - user reviews and comments

Photos of mv gemini.

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Miray's Life at Sea Cruises announces industry's first 3-year World Voyage on MV Gemini

The industry's ever-longest/first 3-year World Voyage, offered on MV Gemini ship by Life at Sea Cruises (new travel brand launched by Miray...

Celestyal Cruises extends suspension of sailings until July 30

Celestyal Cruises is the latest passenger shipping company to extend cruise suspension due to the pandemic until July 30, 2020. Operations are...

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MV Gemini Wiki

For summer 2019 season, Turkey's largest tour agency Etstur chartered Celestyal Nefeli (Gemini) for roundtrips from homeport Izmir (Turkey) to Greece ( Syros Island , Mykonos Island , Santorini Island and Piraeus-Athens ). The seasonal ship charter offered 3- and 4-day itineraries starting May 31 (with a 2-day mini-cruise) and ending on September 8. Etstur's 3-day cruise prices started from EUR 230 / USD 260 per person (double occupancy).

The vessel (Union Naval Valencia yard/hull number 197) is powered by 4x Wartsila marine diesel engines (model 8R32E) with total power output 13,12 MW.

Note: In 2019, the ship's name (Celestyal Nefeli), MMSI (538003843) and registry/flag-state (Marshall Islands) were changed, respectively, to Gemini-Bahamas-311000160.

The vessel was launched (floated-out from drydock) on May 30, 1991, delivered (to the Panama-based Commodore Cruise Line) in May 1992 and immediately chartered (as hotel ship) during the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games. On November 11, it left Barcelona for NYC New York . The inaugural cruise (from homeport NYC) departed on October 5.

In 1995, the ship was sold to Star Cruises , renamed "Superstar Gemini" and homeported in Singapore .

On November 19, 2007, the liner was sold to Jewel Owner Ltd but continued the Star Cruises service (under charter) through January 2009, when was renamed "Vision Star". In March, its flagstate was changed to Malta (registered in Valletta ). In April, it was renamed "Gemini" and chartered to Quail Travel Group (which bankrupted in August 2011).

In April-July 2012, the ship was chartered (as hotel ship) by Petrofac Ltd ( Jersey UK -registered oilfield services provider to the oil and gas industry). In November 2015, the vessel entered drydock at Besiktas Shipyard ( Istanbul, Turkey ).

In April 2016 through December 2017, the ship was chartered by Celestyal Cruises and renamed "Celestyal Nefeli". In January 2018 was renamed to "Gemini".

In May-October 2018 and 2019, MS Gemini was chartered to Etstur (Turkey-based travel agency and tour operator).

For 2019 was planned a seasonal charter to Blue World Voyages (2017-established, Miami -based wellness cruise line / new ) and to be operated as "Blue World One". However, the charter deal was not signed.

In 2020-H1 (first half) the cruise liner was layup in Port Piraeus (Keratsini, Athens) . In July 2020, Miray International started its own brand ("Miray Cruises") by a multi-year chartering of MV Gemini (inaugural cruise for Miray on August 31). Miray specialises in short Aegean Sea cruises (3-4-night Greek Isles itineraries) leaving roundtrip from homeports Piraeus and Cesme Turkey . The itineraries visit some of Greece's most popular islands ( Mykonos , Santorini , Syros ) plus Turkey (Cesme). Longer voyages additionally visit Rhodes . Since 2012, Miray International has been also involved with the Etstur's cruise shipping operations. The list of other Miray-managed cruise vessels also includes Louis Aura , Aegean Paradise , MS Delphin .

Miray Cruises 2021 charter of MV Gemini is planned for the period April through October.

Cincinnati woman sells all her belongings for 3-year cruise only for it to be canceled

by Meghan Mongillo, WKRC

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - The promise of an adventure of a lifetime lured a Cincinnati woman into signing up for what was originally billed as "Life At Sea."

The problem is, the cruise never set sail, but it still turned her whole world upside down. Now, months later, she said the experience has given her a fresh perspective on life.

"My bag was packed, my room was selected, and my boxes were in Florida waiting to be loaded onto the ship," said Keri Witman.

Keri Witman thought she'd be living aboard a ship for a once-in-a-lifetime cruise. It promised customers that it would be the "ultimate bucket list." Passengers were told they would be sailing for three years, seeing seven continents and 140 countries.

"I just thought, this is nuts, but I think it's the right thing to do," said Witman.

Witman is the founder and president of Clever Lucy, a digital marketing firm. She had originally planned to work remotely while she sailed the world.

"I take risks, but calculated risks. So I spent some time doing the math and talked to my financial people, it just made sense. I signed up four days later," said Witman.

Witman told Local 12 that the red flags started to pop-up as the departure date got closer.

"They were supposed to take ownership of the ship on October 1, and when they didn't, that's when we started questioning whether it was really going to happen," said Witman.

In the months prior to the cruise's original launch day, Witman had packed up her Cincinnati home, sold it, got rid of all her belongings, got a Chinese visa, got all her vaccinations, and went shopping for her new adventure.

"Even in my apartment, I had taken lawn chairs instead of living room furniture because I didn't want to have things stored again," said Witman.

Her dreams were shattered when Miray Cruises finally canceled just weeks before its delayed departure date of November 2023. She said this was a life-changing moment for her.

"I got downsized, I got rid of my house, I got knee surgery and my knee replaced. It pushed me to do things that I hadn't been doing," said Witman.

She said that figuring out her next steps were emotionally challenging, but she wanted to keep "living out loud."

"We live our day to day life, we go to work and come home, and I've shaken things up," said Witman.

She said she still has plans to travel with a new friend that was also going to be a passenger on that ship, adding that it's her year to say yes to new experiences.

Life At Sea was canceled because there was no ship. CNN reported that the original ship was too small to sail to all the ports. Miray Cruises said it's currently marketing a new Life At Sea experience that's supposed to set sail in November 2024.

Witman got a full refund on her $32,000 down payment and the offer of a free week long cruise to the Greek islands, which she said she does plan on taking the company up on.

Local 12 reached out to the Life At Sea owner through WhatsApp and email, but didn't get any response.

Life at Sea 3 Year World Cruise Cancelled

• November 26, 2023

Life at Sea’s three-year world cruise has officially been called off by Miray Cruises.

Set to depart on Nov. 1 and then delayed due to investment challenges , the company never acquired a ship.

The vessel that was believed to be heading to Life at Sea, the former AIDAuara, was sold in November to Celestyal Cruises .

Miray and Life at Sea CEO Kendra Holmes resigned from the company in November, according to CNN, which also reported that she is behind a new start up world cruise under the HLC Cruises banner.

According to CNN, the new HLC company would get a “temporary ship” to sail for a few months before acquiring a permanent vessel.

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Likely missile attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels damages a ship in the Red Sea

JERUSALEM (AP) — A suspected missile attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels damaged a ship in the Red Sea on Monday, authorities said, the latest assault in their campaign against international shipping in the crucial maritime route.

The attack happened off the coast of Mokha, Yemen, the British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said. The ship sustained damage in the attack, the UKMTO said, though its crew was safe and heading to its next port of call. The agency urged vessels to exercise caution in the area.

There was “an explosion in close proximity to a merchant vessel,” the UKMTO said. “Vessel and crew are reported safe.”

The private security firm Ambrey said a salvo of three missiles targeted a Malta-flagged container ship traveling from Djibouti onward to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

“The vessel was targeted due to its listed operator’s ongoing trade with Israel,” Ambrey said.

CMA CGM, a Marseille, France-based shipper, had its Malta-flagged CMA CGM Manta Ray due to sail to Jeddah from Djibouti on Monday. However, the shipper said the vessel remained at harbor in Djibouti and could not have been targeted in the incident.

In a statement released late Monday, the Houthis said: “The Yemeni Armed Forces carried out military operations against hostile warships in the Red Sea, of which two American warships were targeted with a number of drones.”

The statement said the attacks on ships would not stop “unless the siege is lifted and the aggression against the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip is stopped.”

Meanwhile Monday, the Italian Defense Ministry said its frigate Virgino Fasan shot down a Houthi drone that morning near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

“A missile exploded in the water in the vicinity of the escorted vessel, causing only minor superficial damage,” the Italian Defense Ministry said, not identifying the commercial vessel being escorted. “The frigate Fasan and the protected merchant vessel are continuing their southward route as planned to exit the Red Sea.”

The Houthis say their attacks on shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden are aimed at pressuring Israel to end its war against Hamas in Gaza , which has killed more than 34,000 Palestinians there. The war began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israel on Oct. 7, killing 1,200 people and taking some 250 others hostage.

The Houthis have launched more than 50 attacks on shipping, seized one vessel and sunk another since November, according to the U.S. Maritime Administration.

Houthi attacks have dropped in recent weeks as the rebels have been targeted by a U.S.-led airstrike campaign in Yemen. Shipping through the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden has declined because of the threat.

American officials have speculated that the rebels may be running out of weapons as a result of the U.S.-led campaign against them and after firing drones and missiles steadily for months. However, the rebels have renewed their attacks in the past week. Early Sunday morning, the U.S. military shot down five drones in the air over the Red Sea, its Central Command said.

The drones “presented an imminent threat to U.S., coalition, and merchant vessels in the region,” Central Command said in a statement.

The Houthis on Saturday claimed they shot down another of the U.S. military’s MQ-9 Reaper drones , airing footage of parts that corresponded to known pieces of the unmanned aircraft. U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Bryon J. McGarry, a Defense Department spokesperson, acknowledged to The Associated Press on Saturday that “a U.S. Air Force MQ-9 drone crashed in Yemen.” He said an investigation was underway, without elaborating.

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