Luxury 'Never-Ending Cruise' Startup Faces Skepticism Over Delays and Founders' Track Record

Storylines is a startup selling residences on a never-ending cruise ship called the MV Narrative for up to $8 million. Investors and ex-employees are skeptical it will ever launch.

The ship was first supposed to launch in 2019 but has faced repeated delays, now to 2026. Experts say the 60-year lifespan promised is unrealistic.

Cofounders Alister Punton and Shannon Lee have been accused of not paying employees and repeatedly breaking contracts since before founding Storylines.

Over half the $900 million ship's 530 units are claimed sold, but buyers must soon make 20% nonrefundable down payments for construction to start.

Despite lacking industry experience, Punton says Storylines will deliver on the dream lifestyle promised. But many have lost faith the ship will be built.