Florida Cruise Offers 4-Year Voyage to 'Skip' Trump's Term

CEO calls it a non-political luxury escape, but online reaction is mixed

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A Florida-based cruise company is offering Americans a chance to sail the world for four years amid Donald Trump's second presidential term. The 'Skip Forward' package on the Odyssey cruise ship allows passengers to visit 425 ports across 140 countries for less than $40,000 per year. While the CEO insists the venture is non-political, the timing and naming have fueled online debate, with some viewing it as a pointed escape and others criticizing it as a privilege play.

Why it matters

The cruise package highlights the deep political divisions in the US following the 2024 election, with some Americans seeking ways to 'escape' the Trump presidency. It also raises questions about class divides, as the high cost of the cruise makes it accessible only to a wealthy subset of the population.

The details

The four-year 'Skip Forward' package on the Odyssey cruise ship allows passengers to join at any port, with double occupancy cabins costing $159,999 per person and singles at $255,999. Shorter segments include a one-year 'Escape from Reality,' a two-year 'Mid-Term Selection,' and a three-year 'Everywhere but Home.' The 485-cabin vessel, refurbished in 2024, provides all-inclusive amenities such as meals, housekeeping, and high-speed internet for remote workers. The itinerary spans all seven continents, with minimal stops in the US.

  • The 'Skip Forward' package was unveiled shortly after the 2024 election.
  • As of February 11, 2026, the Odyssey is sailing in East Australia, en route to Townsville in Queensland.

The players

Villa Vie Residences

A Florida-based cruise company that offers residential cruising, with the Odyssey marking its flagship perpetual world voyage.

Mikael Petterson

The CEO of Villa Vie Residences, who has repeatedly stressed that the 'Skip Forward' cruise package is not political, but rather a luxury escape.

Donald Trump

The former US president whose second term the 'Skip Forward' cruise package is intended to allow passengers to 'skip' or avoid.

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What’s next

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The takeaway

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