The name Orient-Express conjures up images of a gorgeous, early-19th-century blue train traveling around Europe in extreme luxury. While the vision is accurate (hello, La Dolce Vita Express), it’s also incomplete. Orient Express is a travel brand that deals in much more than fancy trains.
As of April 2025, Orient Express operates a very elegant hotel in the historic center of Rome: La Minerva. Before the end of the year, it will run its second hotel, Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice. And by 2026, the brand will launch its first cruise vessel: OE Corinthian. Orient Express is on a mission to expand its reach in the world of luxury travel and we’re here for it.
The World’s Largest Sailing Yacht
Currently under construction in France, OE Corinthian is set to be the world’s largest sailing yacht. The 721-foot-long ship will be able to welcome 110 guests in 54 suites, as well as 170 crew. But what’s even more impressive is that it will use 16,145 square feet of carbon fiber-reinforced glass sails. In favorable weather, the yacht will be propelled by the wind only, making it not only sustainable, but fast. The sails will allow it to travel at a maximum speed of 17 knots (19.6 miles per hour) while its propulsion motor will only take it to a top speed of 15 knots (17.2 miles per hour). Wind 1 – Fossil Fuel 0.
What Will It Be Like Inside?
With its slick shape, three 33-foot-tall masts, and solid sails, the exterior of the yacht will be very futuristic, but inside, it’ll be an entirely different story. Keeping with the Orient Express’ signature style, the OE Corinthian will present refined Art Déco decor throughout. The suites, the bars and restaurants, the well-being areas, and the entertainment venues will all have exquisitely crafted furniture, feature muted tones and brass accents, and radiate a quiet, cozy, and luxurious atmosphere.
Amenities On Board
Like any modern luxury yacht worth its salt, OE Corinthian will have two swimming pools (including a lap pool), a spa, a fitness center, as well as several restaurants and bars. But because this ship isn’t like any other, it will also have a tailor shop, a recording studio, a cinema, and a cabaret.
Our favorite space on board is set to be Le Wagon Bar, reminiscent of the bar car on Orient-Express trains. But the library, with its gorgeous decor and 1,500 volumes, is a close second.
FAQs:
Q: When will the OE Corinthian be completed?
A: The OE Corinthian will be completed in March 2026.
Q: How big will OE Corinthian be?
A: OE Corinthian will be 721 feet long and will be able to accommodate 110 guests.
Q: What will be OE Corinthian’s very first sailing with guests on board?
A: OE Corinthian’s first voyage will be a six-night sailing in Provence and the French Riviera in early June 2026.
