The Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, has recently reached a monumental milestone with her float-out, marking a significant transition from construction to outfitting. This pivotal moment unveils the yacht’s grandeur as she takes her place on the water, promising to revolutionize luxury cruising. Constructed over four and a half months at the prestigious Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, the journey of this magnificent vessel has been nothing short of remarkable. Crafted from fourteen structural blocks and featuring three sleek balestron rigs, the Orient Express Corinthian is a fusion of world-class engineering and cutting-edge design.
Upon completion of her assembly, the yacht was carefully moved from the construction dock to the outfitting dockyard. As the water flowed into the dock and the yacht gracefully rose to the surface, she was gently guided by tugs to the quay, where she will undergo the final stages of outfitting. This achievement is the result of a visionary collaboration between Orient Express, renowned for its expertise in luxury travel, and Chantiers de l’Atlantique, a leader in maritime innovation. The yacht epitomizes the perfect blend of opulence and sustainability, combining traditional craftsmanship with forward-thinking technology. The much-anticipated debut of the Orient Express Corinthian is slated for June 2026, with the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas as her inaugural destinations. Following her maiden voyage, she will embark on a transatlantic journey to the Caribbean, heralding a new era in luxury seafaring.
A True Pioneer in Luxury and Sustainability
With an imposing length of 722 feet, the Orient Express Corinthian is as vast as she is luxurious. Her towering masts and 16,146 square feet of rigid sails make her an engineering marvel, setting a new standard for what is achievable in sailing yacht design. Yet, her pioneering features extend beyond mere size. This yacht is the first to incorporate the revolutionary SolidSail propulsion system, a groundbreaking technology designed to enhance fuel efficiency and performance. Coupled with a hybrid engine powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), this system aims to achieve near-zero emissions, positioning the yacht as a trailblazer in sustainable cruising.
This commitment to sustainability permeates the yacht’s design and technological innovations. An AI-powered floating object detection system has been integrated into the vessel to significantly reduce the risk of collisions with marine mammals, representing a crucial step toward preserving the ocean’s delicate ecosystem. Additionally, the yacht boasts dynamic positioning technology, which eliminates the need for anchoring, thereby safeguarding fragile seabeds and aligning the vessel’s operations with environmentally conscious practices.
A Sensory Journey of Elegance and Comfort
Designed by the esteemed architect Maxime d’Angeac, the interior of the Orient Express Corinthian captures the essence of the golden age of rail travel while seamlessly merging contemporary luxury with timeless elegance. The yacht’s exquisite spaces draw inspiration from iconic ocean liners like the Normandie, placing a strong emphasis on French artistry and craftsmanship. Every aspect of the yacht is meticulously crafted, offering a sensory experience that elevates luxury travel to unparalleled heights.
Guests aboard the Orient Express Corinthian will be treated to unmatched comfort, with 54 opulent suites ranging from 485 to 2,476 square feet. Each suite is designed to provide the utmost in space and luxury, featuring expansive picture windows or private terraces that offer breathtaking views of the ocean. With high ceilings and exquisite furnishings, the suites create an oasis of tranquility and refinement on the high seas.
The dining experience on board is equally extraordinary. With five world-class restaurants and private dining areas, the Orient Express Corinthian offers an exceptional culinary journey under the guidance of multi-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. Serving as Executive Chef for both the Orient Express train and the yacht, Alléno brings his exceptional culinary expertise to ensure that every meal becomes an unforgettable experience for guests.
A Mediterranean Odyssey Like No Other
From May to October 2026, the Orient Express Corinthian will embark on a series of twenty-seven curated itineraries across the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas. These voyages will range from intimate two-night escapes to extended fourteen-day explorations, all fully customizable to meet the unique preferences of each guest. Whether seeking a brief getaway or a longer adventure, travelers can tailor their journeys to explore the finest destinations in the Mediterranean and Adriatic. The yacht’s route will follow the most favorable winds, ensuring an authentic sailing experience while minimizing environmental impact.
As she sails through some of the most picturesque and culturally rich locations in the world, the Orient Express Corinthian promises to provide guests with unparalleled access to destinations as extraordinary as the yacht itself. More than just a yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian signifies a new era in luxury cruising, blending timeless elegance, groundbreaking technology, and a commitment to sustainability. As she prepares to set sail on her maiden voyage, she stands ready to redefine the standard for luxury travel, offering a journey that is as much about the experience as it is about the destination.
