For more than 140 years, the name Orient Express has symbolized elegance, mystery, and the golden age of travel. From its legendary rail journeys connecting Paris to Istanbul, the brand became associated with sophistication, glamour, and unforgettable adventures.
Now, the iconic name is entering an entirely new chapter — the sea.
The first-ever Orient Express Corinthian is bringing the romance of the original train into the modern world of luxury sailing.
From Legendary Train to Luxury Yacht
The original Orient Express inaugural journey departed in 1883, transforming European travel with a new level of comfort and style. More than a century later, the brand is extending that same philosophy beyond railways and onto the oceans.
Developed through a partnership between Accor and French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the Orient Express Corinthian has been designed as the world’s largest sailing yacht.
The vessel blends Art Deco influences with modern maritime engineering, creating an atmosphere that combines heritage with contemporary design.
A New Style of Ocean Travel
At approximately 220 meters long, the Orient Express Corinthian offers a highly exclusive sailing experience centered around privacy, space, and personalized service. The yacht includes just 54 suites, giving the ship a more intimate feel than traditional large-scale cruise vessels.
The interiors, designed by architect Maxime d’Angeac, draw inspiration from the elegance of 1930s travel. Wood textures, marble finishes, soft lighting, and refined public spaces reflect the timeless atmosphere long associated with the Orient Express name.
Guests can expect:
- Fine dining experiences led by chef Yannick Alléno
- Cocktail lounges and private social spaces
- Wellness and spa facilities
- Ocean-view suites
- Curated cultural and entertainment programs
Rather than focusing on high-volume tourism, the experience is designed to emphasize comfort, atmosphere, and slower-paced exploration.
Innovation Meets Sustainability
One of the yacht’s most distinctive features is its advanced sail-powered propulsion system.
The vessel uses the “SolidSail” system, which features three large rotating sails capable of helping power the ship primarily through wind energy under favorable conditions.
Unlike conventional cruise ships that rely heavily on fuel propulsion, the yacht combines wind technology with a hybrid energy system designed to reduce emissions while maintaining long-distance cruising capability.
Industry reports have indicated that the vessel successfully completed sailing demonstrations powered entirely by wind propulsion — a notable achievement for a ship of this scale.
Destinations and Maiden Voyages
The Orient Express Corinthian is scheduled to begin Mediterranean and Adriatic voyages before later expanding into Caribbean itineraries.
Early routes are expected to include destinations such as:
- Monte Carlo
- Saint-Tropez
- Portofino
- Corsica
- Amalfi Coast
- Caribbean islands
The itineraries are designed around extended stays and slower travel experiences rather than fast-paced port schedules.
Official voyage information and route collections can be explored here:
https://www.orient-express.com/en/sailing-yachts/
https://www.orient-express.com/en/sailing-yachts/orient-express-corinthian/
Suggested itineraries include:
- Marseille → Propriano → Calvi → Rome
- Monte Carlo → Portofino → Calvi → Rome
- Valletta → Palermo → Amalfi → Rome
Voyages are expected to range from shorter regional sailings to longer Mediterranean journeys.
The Return of Experience-Driven Travel
Luxury travel continues to shift toward smaller-scale, experience-focused journeys that prioritize exclusivity, personalization, and atmosphere over mass tourism.
The Orient Express Corinthian enters the market during a period of growing interest in intimate, design-oriented cruising experiences.
Few travel brands carry the historical recognition and cultural identity associated with Orient Express, and the launch of the Corinthian reflects an effort to modernize that legacy while preserving its traditional character.
In an era defined by speed and convenience, the project aims to reintroduce a slower and more immersive approach to travel — one where the journey itself becomes part of the experience.
For travelers drawn to heritage, design, and modern sailing innovation, the Orient Express Corinthian represents a new interpretation of classic luxury travel.
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