Cruise Dream Turns into Nightmare for Hundreds as Ship Remains Unchartered

Tue Oct 21 2025 00:00:34 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Victoria Cruises Line's ambitious around-the-world residential cruise has yet to set sail, leaving anxious depositors stranded in a web of uncertainty and broken promises.

Victoria Cruises Line (VCL) promised an all-inclusive three-year cruise to 115 countries, but with no ship in sight, frustrated customers face unfulfilled dreams and financial losses. Many have sold their homes and rehomed pets, hoping for a fresh start on the high seas, only to see their aspirations dashed as VCL continues to advertise without having a vessel secured. Despite complaints and inquiries raising red flags, the company defends its actions while depositors struggle to get their money back.

Cruise Dream Turns into Nightmare for Hundreds as Ship Remains Unchartered

Victoria Cruises Line (VCL) boasted an innovative offer: a residential cruise to 115 countries for US$3,840 (£2,858) a month. The promise enticed many, including Australian couple Dennis and Taryna Wawn, who viewed it as the perfect retirement adventure. However, three years later, the ship has yet to set sail, and many customers are now facing dire consequences.

Reports reveal that VCL does not own or even lease the promised ship, leaving numerous would-be cruise residents disillusioned and without refunds. As BBC's investigations unfold, troubling accounts of personal sacrifices emerge—individuals have sold homes, rehomed pets, and even faced health crises while awaiting a vessel that may never arrive.

“What VCL has done is disgusting,” remarked Adam Glezer, a consumer advocate whose organization is now fielding numerous complaints from anguished customers. Many have reported VCL either threatening legal action when questioned or failing to address refund requests adequately.

In communication with the BBC, VCL claims that it continues to market the cruise to secure enough customers to charter a vessel. Their representatives assert that involved customers understood the occupancy condition upon booking and that many have been misinformed regarding their refund entitlements.

Despite nearly 132 cancellations and serious allegations of misleading promotions, VCL persists in its marketing efforts, even as the promised boat remains elusive. Reports show an organized structure of shell companies connected to VCL operating in Budapest and a track record of unpaid taxes adding further scrutiny to its legitimacy.

The situation escalated when some individuals began pursuing legal routes, leading to a case in Hungary that frustratingly hits a wall when VCL relocated to Italy, complicating enforcement efforts. Meanwhile, investigations in Utah revealed that VCL had not secured proper bookings for departures as advertised.

In a statement, VCL maintains that it is not a scam, contesting that they handle all communications and have not evaded responsibilities. They reiterate claims of an increase in interest to join the residential cruise scheme, even as doubts plague many existing customers.

While the dream of global travel continues to dazzle a new audience, the experiences shared by Dennis and Taryna Wawn and others reflect a harsh reality for many—one where the hope of adventure has transformed into distress and disappointment.