The highly anticipated Orient Express luxury sailing yacht is taking shape in Saint-Nazaire, France, marking a milestone in the world of luxury cruising. Heralded as the world’s largest luxury sailing yacht and a symbol of French craftsmanship, the OE Corinthian is scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage in June 2026, exactly one year from now.
Luxury yacht cruising has become a leading trend in the hospitality industry, with four major hotel brands launching their own vessels. Among these, the Orient Express yacht stands out for its unique sailing design and the iconic heritage associated with the Orient Express brand—renowned for its luxury, artistic elegance, and rich history.
The first vessel under the Orient Express Sailing Yachts banner, the OE Corinthian, is being constructed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the same shipyard behind the innovative Solid Sail concept. The yacht’s design stems from the Sileanseas concept, which incorporates the Solid Sail technology. Two yachts of this kind will operate under the Orient Express brand, with the OE Corinthian currently in development in France.
Technologically, the yacht sets new standards in sustainable luxury cruising. Combining wind power, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and advanced AI navigation, the vessel aims for low-emission operation. It will feature the world’s largest sailing masts and a hybrid dual-fuel engine—the Wärtsilä 25DF—capable of running on LNG to extend its range beyond wind propulsion.
Chantiers de l’Atlantique collaborated with Brunvoll to develop a custom propulsion system, featuring a twin-screw layout with direct electric drive and controllable-pitch propellers measuring 3.9 meters (12.7 feet) in diameter. Additionally, a low-energy marine compressed air system, supplied by Oslo-based TCM Compressors, will help further reduce emissions.
The yacht’s construction has been a massive collaborative effort, involving over 800 engineers and 10,000 skilled professionals during the past three years.
In terms of aesthetics, the OE Corinthian’s design draws inspiration from the grand transatlantic liners of America’s Golden Age. Renowned architect Maxime d’Angeac has crafted its elegant interiors, while luxury amenities include a 115-seat cabaret, two swimming pools, and multiple fine dining venues overseen by a multi-Michelin-starred chef.
Currently under construction, the OE Corinthian is set to officially launch and sail next summer, promising a new era of opulent, sustainable luxury at sea.
