Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, was named on 29 April 2026 in Saint-Nazaire. Flying the French flag, this 220-metre sailing ship heralds a new era of travel, uniting French decorative craftsmanship with cutting-edge naval innovation.
Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique today celebrate the baptism of Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, at the Joubert graving dock in Saint-Nazaire.
Following the ceremony, the ship, a feat of engineering and a showcase of French craftsmanship, will sail from Saint-Nazaire on 2 May 2026, bound for the French Riviera ahead of her inaugural Mediterranean season.
Laurent Castaing, Chief Executive Officer of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, says: “For more than one hundred and sixty years, Chantiers de l’Atlantique has been building ships that define their era. Orient Express Corinthian is the latest proof of this: 720 feet, 15,000 tonnes carried by the wind, three SolidSail sails… the fruit of ten years of research and development. It is a concrete, technical response to the decarbonisation challenges facing maritime transport. But above all, it is the work of men and women of exceptional dedication and passion. To them I owe this humble pride. And I thank Orient Express for the trust they placed in us from the very first day of this extraordinary project.”
Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Accor says: “Bringing Orient Express to the sea fits naturally within the imagination of this legendary brand: a journey rooted in discovery, unhurried time, excellence, and elegance. Orient Express Corinthian embodies this vision with majesty and boldness. Thanks to its sail-powered propulsion, its spaces enhanced by rare materials, and by offering a unique experience designed for an international clientele, we have met a threefold challenge: industrial, architectural, and artistic. This sailing vessel, born from the collaboration and trust built over the past two years between Accor and Chantiers de l’Atlantique, now proudly showcases the very best of French expertise and craftsmanship.”
