A New Era at Sea: Inside the 722-Foot Orient Express Yacht Redefining Ocean Travel

For over a century, Orient Express has been synonymous with the golden age of travel, where the journey itself was as indulgent as the destination. Now, the legendary name has taken to the seas with its most ambitious project yet: the launch of Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht.

At an extraordinary 722 feet in length, this record-breaking vessel has officially set sail from Saint-Nazaire, bound for the glittering coastline of the French Riviera, marking the beginning of a new chapter in ultra-luxury travel.

Where Innovation Meets Elegance

A decade in the making, Corinthian is as much a feat of engineering as it is a floating masterpiece. Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the yacht introduces a groundbreaking SolidSail propulsion system, an innovation that sets a new benchmark for sustainability at sea.

Three towering masts, each rising to approximately 328 feet, support over 16,000 square feet of rigid sails. Capable of rotating 360 degrees, they harness wind power with remarkable efficiency, allowing the yacht to glide through the water with minimal environmental impact. During sea trials, Corinthian achieved 12 knots under sail alone, an unprecedented milestone for a vessel of this scale.

The hybrid propulsion system is equally forward-thinking, powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) to significantly reduce emissions, while retaining the capability for traditional engine support when required. The result is a seamless blend of performance, innovation, and environmental consciousness.

The Spirit of the Golden Age, Reimagined

Step inside, and Corinthian reveals a world that pays homage to the romance of historic travel—reinterpreted through a contemporary lens.

Under the creative direction of Maxime d’Angeac, the interiors echo the opulence of classic ocean liners and the iconic Orient Express trains, with a distinctly modern refinement. Nearly 2,000 French artisans and ateliers have contributed to the project, ensuring every detail reflects the highest level of craftsmanship.

Across four expansive decks, just 54 suites create an atmosphere of exclusivity rarely found at sea. Ranging from 485 to an impressive 2,476 square feet, each suite features panoramic windows or private terraces, alongside rich materials including leather, wood veneers, and marble. Every guest is assigned a dedicated butler, an understated yet essential detail in the world of true luxury.

Dining, Design, and Destination

Corinthian is not simply a yacht, it is a fully realised lifestyle experience. Onboard, five restaurants and a collection of private dining spaces are curated by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, offering a culinary journey that rivals the finest establishments on land. Eight bars—including an Art Deco-inspired speakeasy and a Parisian cabaret, bring a sense of theatre and glamour to evenings at sea.

A Guerlain spa, a swimming pool, and a private marina complete the offering, ensuring every moment onboard is designed around indulgence, relaxation, and discovery.

The Journey Ahead

From May through October, Corinthian will chart a course across the Mediterranean and Adriatic, before crossing the Atlantic for a winter season in the Caribbean. Looking ahead, an expanded collection of itineraries spanning Northern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean is already planned for 2027.

As her sister ship, Olympian, prepares to join the fleet next year, it’s clear this is only the beginning. With Corinthian, Orient Express has not simply entered the world of yachting—it has redefined it.