Floating Condo Project Says Ahoy to the Affluent

What has been dubbed the world’s first floating condo finally set sail from Oslo March 29 after numerous delays.

About 80% of the World of ResidenSea’s 110 luxury residences, priced at $2.25 million and up, have been sold since they went on the market about five years ago, said Lisa M. Bailey, spokeswoman for Bahamas-based ResidenSea Ltd., which operates the 43,000-gross-ton vessel. The ship is designed to perpetually sail the globe, carrying its well-heeled homeowners plus 88 guest suites. It includes several restaurants, two pools, putting greens and more.

Most homeowners are treating the condos like second homes, however, Bailey said. So starting May 2, the condos are available for lease, along with the guest suites. Under a special package this year, available for five-day segments, the residences go for $1,400 per apartment per day, and the suites start at $500 per person per day, double occupancy. The suite price includes on-board meals and beverages; the residence price does not.

The launch date for the ship was initially announced for 2000. Last summer the owners ended a contract with Silversea Cruises to market the guest suites and began marketing them on their own, Bailey said. (800) 970-6601, www.residensea.com.