Orient Express Corinthian launched

Orient Express Corinthian has been launched for its very first sea trials, Orient Express Sailing Yachts has confirmed.

It has been almost 18 months since construction of the new vessel began at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France. Now it is nearing completion and is scheduled to debut in June 2026.
“The yacht now takes to the water with the promise of what is to come: a fusion of maritime excellence, craftsmanship and the pioneering spirit that drives Orient Express Sailing Yachts forward,” Orient Express Sailing Yachts said.

Masts of 70 metres

With a length of 220 metres and three masts of 70 metres each, the Corinthian is the largest sailing yacht in the world. The three masts, equipped with an Aero-rig, are technical marvels. They enable the sailing yacht to sail high upwind, significantly reducing its environmental impact. Orient Express Corinthian is the first yacht equipped with the revolutionary SolidSail propulsion system, an innovation developed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique. With three rigid sails of 1,500 square metres each, the yacht will be able to reach speeds of up to 17 knots. Depending on wind and sea conditions, the voyage will be exclusively under sail or in hybrid mode. Designed to combine elegance, robustness and durability, SolidSail heralds a new era of wind-assisted propulsion.

The sloping masts and balestron sails are not classic nostalgia, but high-tech choices for aerodynamic efficiency. The hybrid LNG propulsion system, combined with solar panels, batteries and AI-controlled route planning, shows ambition towards ‘almost’ emission-free sailing. Even ecological seabed protection and collision detection for marine animals were given a place in the design.

More private club than cruise

The interior was designed by Maxime d’Angeac, known for the new Orient Express train concept. Classical grandeur – think art deco, oak panelling and marble – gzals here with contemporary comforts: high ceilings, panoramic windows, private gardens, a Guerlain spa, star kitchen and a cabaret room.

In summer 2026, the Corinthian sails out along the Mediterranean and later towards the Caribbean. There are just 54 suites on board for up to 130 passengers – a set-up more akin to a private club than a cruise. OE Corinthian will make a series of voyages ranging from two-day trips to 14-day voyages.

Exclusive price tag

A week’s cruise will cost you at least €9,200 per person. For a prestige suite, that rises smoothly to 40,000 euros or more – depending on route, season and service package.

Sources: Orient Express, LinkedIn, Seatalk.

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