Orient Express Corinthian Floats Out in France

The world’s largest sailing yacht, the Orient Express Corinthian, has officially touched water for the first time, marking a major milestone in both design and engineering.

Built over four and a half months at the famed Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, the vessel has now moved from the structural build phase to the outfitting dock for interior work and final system integration. With a sleek silhouette made up of 14 structural blocks and three towering balestron masts, the yacht’s float-out signals the beginning of her journey towards becoming a global icon of sustainable maritime travel.

Stretching an impressive 722 feet, the Corinthian will set sail in June 2026 across the Mediterranean and Adriatic, before a transatlantic journey to the Caribbean. She will be joined by her sister ship, Orient Express Olympian, in summer 2027.

More than just size, this yacht is a symbol of innovation. It will be the first sailing vessel to use the pioneering SolidSail system, paired with a hybrid propulsion engine powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). A smart floating object detection system and dynamic positioning will reduce anchor use and marine mammal collisions, reflecting its eco-conscious design ethos.

Inside, Artistic Director Maxime d’Angeac has reimagined the golden era of ocean liners with a modern French twist. The yacht will house 54 lavish suites, five gourmet dining venues curated by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, and expansive sea views through grand windows and terraces.

From May to October 2026, the Corinthian will offer 27 Mediterranean and Adriatic itineraries, from weekend escapes to two-week odysseys—each designed to follow the winds and honour the sea.