The World’s Largest Sailing Yacht Launches in Saint-Nazaire Ahead of Its First Mediterranean Voyages in 2026
July 13, 2025 – Orient Express Corinthian Sailing Yacht
The next chapter of Orient Express has touched water. In the port of Saint-Nazaire, under the Atlantic skies of western France, the Orient Express Corinthian has completed its technical launch, a milestone that marks its official transition from shipyard prototype to floating legend.
After four and a half months of assembly at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the 220-meter vessel, now the world’s largest sailing yacht, floated for the first time. Tugboats guided it from its dry dock through the Penhoët basin, before mooring it at the outfitting dock for its final stage of construction.
This is France’s most ambitious maritime design since the golden age of transatlantic liners, and the start of a new era in luxury travel.
A New Kind of Ocean Icon
Built from 14 structural blocks and crowned with three rigid sails rising over 100 meters, the Corinthian is both an engineering marvel and a cultural artifact. Its SolidSail propulsion system, paired with a hybrid LNG engine, positions it at the frontier of sustainable travel.
Zero anchoring. AI-assisted marine mammal detection. Dynamic positioning. Every detail is designed to minimize impact and maximize innovation.
The result? A yacht that glides, rather than imposes. A sustainable expression of grandeur—elegant, deliberate, and ocean-conscious.
Inside the Experience
The interiors, conceived by Maxime d’Angeac, Artistic Director of Orient Express, reimagine the golden age of rail in nautical form. Think grand transatlantic nostalgia recast with French modernism: high ceilings, panoramic suites, and custom finishes by master artisans.
The 54 suites, ranging from 45 to 230m², feature either private terraces or sweeping sea views—a rare spatial luxury even at sea. Five restaurants and intimate dining spaces will operate under the guidance of Yannick Alléno, bringing haute cuisine to open water.
Mediterranean Voyages Begin May 2026
From May to October 2026, Orient Express Corinthian will sail through the Mediterranean and Adriatic on 27 curated itineraries. Two-night escapes to 14-day voyages. All routes are wind-optimized to favor sail propulsion, delivering authentic sailing experiences with minimal footprint.
Each journey promises bespoke comfort, local immersion, and the quiet thrill of traveling in rhythm with the sea.
Orient Express Corinthian Sailing Yacht
Voyages Begin: May 2026
Itineraries: Mediterranean & Adriatic
Vessel: Orient Express Corinthian (220m, 54 suites)
Chef Onboard: Yannick Alléno
Book: concierge@babble-up.com
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