The world’s largest sailing yacht, Orient Express Corinthian, has taken a major step towards welcoming guests, successfully completing a new round of sea trials off the French Atlantic coast and proving its pioneering sail system at scale.
With these tests passed, the spectacular 220‑metre vessel remains on track for its mid‑2026 launch and first luxury sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean.
Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint‑Nazaire, Orient Express Corinthian is a sail‑powered cruise yacht on a scale the industry has never seen before.
During recent trials, the 25,200‑GT ship sailed at 12 knots under wind power alone in around 20 knots of breeze – a performance the shipyard describes as “a first for a ship of this size.”
Key technical highlights include:
- Length: 220 metres (721 feet)
- Tonnage: approx. 25,200 GT
- Capacity: 54 luxury suites for around 110 guests, delivering an exceptional space‑to‑guest ratio
- Sail system: SolidSail rig with three 69‑metre carbon masts, each supporting 1,500 m² of rigid sail area for a total of roughly 4,500 m².
- Hybrid propulsion: Sail power supplemented by an LNG‑fuelled engine, targeting near‑zero‑emission cruising where conditions allow.
The three carbon masts sit on balestron rigs that can rotate 360 degrees, allowing the sails to be optimally trimmed regardless of wind direction. They can also tilt up to 70 degrees, reducing air draft so the yacht can slip under major bridges that would normally be off‑limits to a vessel this tall.
Explore the official overview and design story here: https://www.orient-express.com/en/sailing-yachts/yachts/orient-express-corinthian
Suites and Space: Ultra-Luxury on a Grand Scale
While a full interiors reveal is still to come, Orient Express has confirmed the yacht will feature 54 “exquisitely appointed” suites, each designed with the brand’s signature French flair and an emphasis on light, views and generous private space. With only around 110 guests on such a large platform, the yacht promises one of the highest space‑to‑guest ratios at sea, plus multiple pools, restaurants and lounges that feel more boutique hotel than cruise ship.
Early visuals and descriptions point to:
- All‑suite accommodation, many with expansive outdoor areas
- A focus on indoor–outdoor living, echoing the Mediterranean lifestyle
- Public spaces that reflect Orient Express’ heritage in rail and hospitality, translated into a sailing context
First Voyages: Best of the French Riviera and Beyond
With sea trials progressing well, Orient Express Corinthian’s maiden voyages are set to begin in May 2026, starting in the Mediterranean. One of the earliest sailings showcased online is the “Best of French Riviera” itinerary:
- Best of French Riviera – 4 nights
- Departure: 6 June 2026, Marseille
- Calls: Cannes and Saint‑Tropez, focusing on the Côte d’Azur’s most iconic enclaves
- Arrival: 10 June 2026, Saint‑Tropez
According to the official itinerary, guests can expect:
- Time in Marseille, “the mosaic city” and one of France’s most vibrant ports
- A cinematic stop in Cannes, complete with an exclusive, festival‑inspired evening at the futuristic Palais Bulles
- A finale in Saint‑Tropez, with classic‑car drives through Provence, refined food experiences and the kind of harbour‑front people‑watching that made the town legendary
From there, the yacht will operate a broader collection of Mediterranean cruises through Provence, the Côte d’Azur and beyond, before expanding into additional regions in later seasons.
Discover the “Best of French Riviera” and other launch itineraries:
https://www.orient-express.com/en/sailing-yachts/destinations/mediterranean/best-french-riviera/060626-4-nights
Why This Launch Matters
For travellers, Orient Express Corinthian represents a rare blend of heritage brand, true sail power and ultra‑limited guest numbers. For the industry, it’s a proof‑of‑concept that large cruise‑scale vessels can genuinely harness wind as a primary propulsion source – not just as a decorative nod to the past.
If you’re dreaming of the Riviera and you prefer teak decks, billowing (solid) sails and discreet service over megaship buzz, this is one launch to keep firmly on your radar.
To explore all itineraries and register your interest, visit:
https://www.orient-express.com/en/sailing-yachts/yachts/orient-express-corinthian
