Orient Express Corinthian: The World’s Largest Sail Yacht Unveiled in France

Unveiling of the Orient Express Corinthian, the largest sail yacht cruise ship, at Chantiers de l’Atlantique.

Key Points

  • • Orient Express Corinthian is the world's largest sail yacht cruise ship, floated out on June 16, 2025.
  • • It measures 727 feet, weighs 26,200 gross tons, and accommodates up to 110 passengers.
  • • The yacht features an innovative sail system and is designed for 100% renewable power.
  • • The maiden voyage is scheduled for June 2026, starting from Marseille.”],

The Orient Express Corinthian, recognized as the world's largest sail yacht cruise ship, was officially floated out on June 16, 2025, at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This monumental vessel measures 727 feet (220 meters) in length, weighs 26,200 gross tons, and is capable of accommodating up to 110 passengers in unparalleled luxury.

The ship's design includes an innovative sail system featuring three balestron rigs, which are equipped with masts that rise 100 meters (328 feet) tall. This configuration allows for a substantial sail area of 16,146 square feet, utilizing a unique pivoting mechanism that enhances sailing performance while also allowing the sails to fold down when not in use. As for sustainability, the ship’s propulsion system is designed to attain 100% renewable energy under favorable conditions, supported by a hybrid liquefied natural gas (LNG) system as a back-up option.

Moreover, the Orient Express Corinthian is engineered to minimize its environmental footprint through advanced technology, including an AI-driven floating object detection system to protect marine wildlife and dynamic positioning capabilities to safeguard seafloors. The yacht comprises 54 luxurious suites ranging from 485 to an impressive 2,476 square feet, accompanied by five restaurants and a private dining experience led by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno. The ship is registered in France and is set to operate primarily in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, with its maiden voyage scheduled for June 2026 from Marseille.

The launch signifies the entry of the Orient Express brand into the high-end cruise market, paralleling other luxury hospitality brands in the arena. It aims to blend lavish experiences with eco-friendly practices, setting a new standard for the cruise industry.