The new wind-powered Orient Express yacht will take quiet luxury to the next level

The Orient Express yacht is currently under construction in Saint-Nazaire, France, and it’s attracting attention for the right reasons.

Scheduled to set sail in June 2026, the vessel is expected to be the largest sailing yacht of its kind, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

It marks the brand’s expansion from historic trains and luxury hotels into maritime travel.

At the center of this project is a clear goal – blending luxury with sustainability.

VISIT SBX CARS – View live supercar auctions powered by Supercar Blondie

The ship, named OE Corinthian, is the result of a partnership between French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique and the Orient Express brand, now under the Accor group.

Of course, this isn’t the first cruise venture by a major hotel brand.

Just look at the Ritz-Carlton superyacht, which boasts fives restaurants and a mini-marina.

What makes the Orient Express yacht stand out is that it’s the only sailing yacht among several new cruise ventures by major hotel brands.

While the other ships rely on conventional propulsion, this one is built around a modern sailing system called Solid Sail.

Developed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the Solid Sail concept uses rigid, pivoting sails that are more durable and efficient than traditional fabric sails.

The OE Corinthian will also include a dual-fuel engine that runs on liquefied natural gas and can act as a backup when wind conditions aren’t favorable.

This hybrid system is designed to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.

The yacht’s propulsion setup includes twin controllable-pitch propellers with a direct electric drive, developed with engineering firm Brunvoll.

In addition, TCM Compressors from Oslo will supply a compressed air system aimed at lowering overall energy use on board.

These combined systems reflect an effort to create a lower-impact vessel in a traditionally fuel-heavy industry.

After all, the amount of money it takes to fill a $100 million superyacht with a tank of gas may surprise (or scare) you.

The design takes cues from classic ocean liners of the mid-20th century, with interiors created by French architect Maxime d’Angeac.

Planned onboard features include two swimming pools, a 115-seat cabaret-style lounge, and several dining options led by a chef with multiple Michelin stars.

With its focus on sustainability, engineering innovation, and design rooted in historic luxury, the OE Corinthian represents a new direction for both the Orient Express brand and the future of luxury cruising.

Of course, the Orient Express yacht faces stiff competition from other luxury hotel brands, like Aman Resorts, which plans to launch a superyacht with 47 opulent balcony suites in 2027.

DISCOVER SBX CARS: The global premium car auction platform powered by Supercar Blondie