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Orient Express Corinthian: Chantiers de l’Atlantique Delivers a 720-Foot Sailing Giant
Scaling Wind Propulsion
The push for decarbonization across the maritime sector requires massive structural shifts. Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique recently celebrated the naming of the Orient Express Corinthian at the Joubert graving dock in Saint-Nazaire. Measuring 220 metres and displacing 15,000 tonnes, the vessel represents a deliberate integration of advanced shipbuilding and traditional French art de vivre. Led by Accor CEO Sébastien Bazin and Chantiers de l’Atlantique CEO Laurent Castaing, the project demonstrates a viable method for scaling wind-powered operations on the water.
The SolidSail Rigging System
Moving a vessel of this magnitude without heavy reliance on traditional fuel demands specific hardware. The ship operates utilizing the SolidSail wind propulsion system. The setup features three automated rigs, each spanning 1,500 square metres and reaching over 320 feet. These carbon masts rotate 360 degrees to maintain optimal trim regardless of wind direction, and can cant to 70 degrees to clear major coastal bridges. During February 2026 sea trials, the ship successfully reached 12 knots under sail alone in 20 knots of wind.
Environmental Risk Mitigation
Wind power is only one component of the ship’s operational profile. The SolidSail configuration operates in tandem with a hybrid liquefied natural gas (LNG) system, securing a highly favorable Energy Efficiency Design Index rating. The builder also integrated an AI-assisted detection system that continuously monitors the surrounding water for marine mammals and floating objects, actively reducing collision risks. Furthermore, dynamic positioning software eliminates the need for physical anchoring, protecting fragile seabeds during coastal stops.
Bespoke Interior Craftsmanship
Designing a functional interior on a 720-foot hull requires a unified architectural vision. Orient Express Creative Director Maxime d’Angeac directed nearly 2,000 craftsmen to execute the bespoke specifications. The layout distributes 54 suites across four decks, with individual spaces ranging from 45 to 230 square metres. Each suite incorporates a 3.60-metre panoramic window and deckhead heights raised 25 cm above current industry averages. Multi-Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno oversees the culinary operations, which include five restaurants, private dining rooms, and a 115-seat cabaret.
The Inaugural Routing
Following the formal transfer of ownership and the blessing by Orthodox archbishop Monseigneur Nicolas, the ship prepares for active service. The Orient Express Corinthian will depart Saint-Nazaire on May 2, 2026, heading toward the French Riviera. The inaugural season runs from May to October across the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas, transitioning to the Caribbean for the winter months. By 2027, the vessel will expand its operational footprint to Northern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean, offering bespoke itineraries for an international clientele.
Expanding the Global Footprint
With active operations scaling across Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas, the enterprise is dictating the pace of the luxury fabric market. Ügümü and Mutlu have built an infrastructure that handles both hyper-customized marine orders and sprawling corporate contracts simultaneously. For fleet managers and hospitality directors who refuse to compromise on material quality, this Istanbul-based operation provides a streamlined, highly reliable pipeline for top-tier textiles.
