Orient Express Corinthian: The World’s Largest Sailing Yacht Makes a Splash

There’s a new legend on the horizon for luxury cruising, and she just hit the water in France. The Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, has officially floated out from the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard, marking a massive milestone for both the iconic Orient Express brand and the future of sustainable travel.

A New Era for Luxury Yachting

After four and a half months of assembly, the 220-metre Corinthian made her debut on 16 June 2025, gliding from the construction dock to the outfitting yard in Saint-Nazaire. Now moored at the quay, she’s gearing up for her final fit-out and finishing touches ahead of her maiden voyage in June 2026.

This isn’t just another superyacht. The Corinthian is set to redefine what’s possible at sea, blending cutting-edge sustainability with old-school glamour. With just 54 suites—each with sweeping ocean views or private terraces—guests can expect an intimate, exclusive experience that harks back to the golden age of travel, but with every modern luxury.

Innovation Meets Sustainability

Orient Express Corinthian is a true pioneer, boasting the world’s first SolidSail propulsion system. These massive carbon-composite sails, spread across three towering masts, can harness 100% wind power in the right conditions. When the breeze drops, a hybrid system powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) kicks in, pushing the vessel towards near-zero-emission cruising.

But the green tech doesn’t stop there. The yacht features an AI-driven floating object detection system to help avoid marine mammal collisions, and dynamic positioning technology to eliminate the need for anchoring—protecting fragile seabeds wherever she sails. The interiors use sustainably sourced materials, and advanced energy and waste systems keep the environmental footprint to a minimum.

Five-Star Living at Sea

Onboard, guests will be treated to five restaurants led by multi-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, the culinary genius behind the Orient Express train. The ship’s interior, designed by artistic director Maxime d’Angeac, channels the grandeur of classic ocean liners with a fresh, contemporary twist. Think Art Deco speakeasies, private dining rooms, a 115-seat cabaret, recording studio, two pools, and a marina for water sports.

Mediterranean, Adriatic and Beyond

From June to October 2026, the Corinthian will cruise the Mediterranean and Adriatic, offering 27 different itineraries ranging from three to 14 days. Destinations include the likes of Monte Carlo, Portofino, Saint-Tropez, as well as hidden gems like Portoferraio and Saint-Florent. Each journey is designed to coincide with major cultural events, and shore excursions range from archaeological tours in Pompeii to private dinners atop Venice’s Peggy Guggenheim Museum.

After her first season, Corinthian will cross the Atlantic to the Caribbean, where she’ll be joined by her sister ship, Orient Express Olympian, in 2027.

The Verdict

With her blend of high-tech sustainability, jaw-dropping design, and old-world service, the Orient Express Corinthian isn’t just another luxury yacht—it’s a floating revolution. If you’re keen to be among the first to experience this new chapter in luxury cruising, bookings are now open.

Sail into the future—Corinthian style.