The iconic Orient Express, known for its legendary trains, is venturing into uncharted waters with the launch of Orient Express Sailing Yachts. This ambitious expansion marks a new chapter for the brand, blending its heritage of refined elegance with cutting-edge maritime innovation. The timing coincides with the brand’s upcoming 140-year anniversary since the launch of the first Orient Express luxury trains, creating a poetic connection between past and future.
Drawing inspiration from the golden age of travel and the allure of the French Riviera, these vessels represent a natural evolution for a name synonymous with exceptional journeys. With a commitment to sustainable luxury travel, the Orient Express aims to capture the same spirit of adventure and refinement that made its trains legendary, now translated to the open sea. Set to embark on their maiden voyages in 2026, these floating palaces promise to transform luxury exploration at sea with their revolutionary design and bespoke experiences.
Revolutionary vessels redefine maritime luxury
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The initial fleet includes two extraordinary vessels: the Orient Express Corinthian and Orient Express Silenseas. Both yachts stretch an impressive 220 metres in length, though the Silenseas boasts a greater tonnage at 22,300 UMS compared to the Corinthian’s 16,000 metric tons.
What makes these Orient Express Sailing Yachts truly revolutionary is their innovative sail technology. The Corinthian features a patented 1,500-square-metre solid sail constructed from carbon fibre-reinforced glass panels – an engineering marvel developed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique. Meanwhile, the Silenseas, heralded as the world’s largest sailing yacht, boasts an even more impressive 4,500-square-metre sail area.
The Silenseas represents a collaborative vision between Stirling Design International, responsible for the exterior, and Maxime d’Angeac Architecte, who crafted the interior. Drawing inspiration from the Normandie liner and the carefree elegance of the French Riviera’s golden age, the yacht pays homage to maritime heritage while pushing the boundaries of luxury design.
Exquisite accommodations and experiences await
Both Orient Express Sailing Yachts offer 54 luxurious suites, with the Silenseas featuring an average suite size of 70 square metres. The pinnacle of opulence is the Silenseas’ monumental Presidential Suite, spanning 1,415 square metres, including a 530-square-metre private terrace.
Onboard, guests will indulge in culinary masterpieces curated by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. The sophisticated lounges and entertainment spaces include an Amphitheatre-Cabaret and even a private recording studio. For relaxation, Le SPA by Guerlain offers premium treatments, while the Marina provides direct access to water sports.
The Silenseas further enhances the experience with two swimming pools, including a lap pool, two restaurants, and a speakeasy bar – creating an atmosphere of absolute comfort and refined elegance typical of the Orient Express legacy.
Mediterranean journeys that celebrate slow travel
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The Orient Express Sailing Yachts are designed for slow sailing and exclusive anchorages, offering immersive Mediterranean itineraries beginning in June 2026. These all-inclusive voyages transform travel into an art form, evoking the allure of iconic destinations like Monte-Carlo, Saint-Tropez, and Cannes.
Initial itineraries include:
- Provence & Côte d’Azur: A six-night voyage departing 6 June 2026 aboard the Orient Express Corinthian
- Best of French Riviera: A fou-night journey from Marseille to Cannes and Saint Tropez
- Corsica & Liguria: A seven-night exploration visiting Marseille, Corsican ports, Lerice, and Monte Carlo
- French Riviera & Provence: An eight-night voyage sailing from Monte Carlo to Marseille
These carefully curated journeys promise exclusive experiences, including private beach dinners, guided explorations, and gourmet delights, with seamless access to cultural treasures.
The Orient Express Sailing Yachts represent a bold new direction for the legendary brand, combining its storied heritage with maritime innovation. For those seeking the pinnacle of luxury travel, these revolutionary vessels promise to deliver an experience that transcends traditional sailing, continuing the Orient Express tradition of transforming travel into an unforgettable art form.
