Victoria Cruises Line: The Dream Voyage Turned Nightmare for Would-be Travelers

Thu Oct 16 2025 15:23:36 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Despite promises of a whimsical journey, many customers of Victoria Cruises Line are left stranded on a sea of unfulfilled expectations and financial losses, questioning the legitimacy of a cruise that has yet to set sail.

Victoria Cruises Line (VCL) marketed an ambitious around-the-world cruise for retirees, but after collecting significant deposits, it has failed to provide a ship or a clear timeline for voyages, leaving many customers in emotional and financial turmoil. Victims describe their experiences amidst unfulfilled dreams, while VCL insists they are functioning legally and continue to seek more customers for their venture.

Throw your current lifestyle overboard! boasts the advert for Victoria Cruises Line (VCL), which bills itself as the world's first affordable residential cruise.

Cabins typically go for US$3,840 (£2,858) a month for a three-year voyage to 115 countries, offering adventurers the option to travel around the globe or enjoy life at sea.

For Dennis and Taryna Wawn from Perth, Australia, the pitch couldn't have come at a better time as they planned their retirement. However, three years later, the ship has yet to sail. VCL does not even own or have a lease on the advertised vessel.

The Wawns are just two of dozens of would-be cruise residents awaiting refunds, some of whom have sold homes or made life-altering decisions based on the company's promises. One customer tragically had to put down her sick dog, thinking she would be away for years.

The people that put down a deposit for this cruise were sold a dream... and it has turned into nothing short of a nightmare, said Adam Glezer, a consumer advocate.

Many affected individuals have taken legal action or filed complaints, while VCL announced that it is still seeking more customers before sailing can commence.

The company claims potential customers were aware of the occupancy requirements at the time of booking, asserting that no harm has been done. People, however, have lost faith in VCL and their dreams of travel are slowly sinking away.

Taryna noted that their initial research gave them confidence in the cruise's legitimacy, having spoken with a representative and seen a well-built website. Yet, as postponements continued, their confidence waned.

Reports suggest that the cruise's vessel has not been booked, and some supposed staff members listed on the website were unaware of any employment offers.

Despite the growing list of complaints and questions regarding its legitimacy, VCL continues to promote its cruise through social media and other platforms.

Many customers are now coping with financial losses and emotional heartbreak as they reflect on their once promising adventure, now tainted by uncertainty and doubt.