Orient Express Corinthian Named as World’s Largest Sailing Yacht

Orient Express Corinthian was christened today in Saint-Nazaire, France, as the world’s largest sailing yacht. The ceremony took place at the historic Joubert graving dock, a site tied to some of France’s most iconic ocean liners.

Fireworks mark the naming ceremony of Orient Express Corinthian in Saint-Nazaire, France. Credit: Maxime Castric / Chantiers de l’Atlantique — Fireworks mark the naming ceremony of Orient Express *Corinthian* in Saint-Nazaire, France. Credit: Maxime Castric / Chantiers de l’Atlantique

Included in the program was an aerial flyover in the colors of the French flag, the raising of the yacht’s three rigid sails, and the formal handover from shipbuilder to operator. The event closed with a traditional blessing and champagne ceremony.

Orient Express Corinthian is docked in Saint-Nazaire during its naming ceremony at Chantiers de l’Atlantique. Credit: Maxime Castric / Chantiers de l’Atlantique — Orient Express *Corinthian* is docked in Saint-Nazaire during its naming ceremony at Chantiers de l’Atlantique. Credit: Maxime Castric / Chantiers de l’Atlantique

New Model for Wind-Powered Cruising

Corinthian features three SolidSail rigs, each designed to rotate and capture wind from multiple angles. In favorable conditions, the yacht can operate on wind power alone. During sea trials earlier this year, Orient Express said the yacht reached 12 knots under sail in steady winds.

A flyover in French colors passes above Orient Express Corinthian during its naming ceremony. Credit: Maxime Castric / Chantiers de l’Atlantique — A flyover in French colors passes above Orient Express *Corinthian* during its naming ceremony. Credit: Maxime Castric / Chantiers de l’Atlantique

The yacht carries 110 passengers across 54 suites, supported by a crew of 170. That ratio places it among the most service-focused ships at sea. Suites range from 484 to 2,476 square feet and include large panoramic windows and higher-than-average ceilings. Each suite includes butler service.

In addition to a marina platform for direct access to the water, Corinthian also features a 54-foot swimming lane designed as a narrow, corridor-style lap pool. Positioned beneath one of the yacht’s masts and enclosed by high walls, the space offers a more private, fitness-focused alternative to traditional open-deck pools.

Dining will be led by chef Yannick Alléno, with several restaurants and private dining options onboard. The ship also features eight bars, including a speakeasy-style venue, along with a cabaret space and a recording studio.

Mediterranean Launch & Flexible Itineraries

The yacht will operate in the Mediterranean and Adriatic through October 2026. It is then expected to reposition to the Caribbean for the winter season. Additional itineraries in Northern Europe and the eastern Mediterranean are planned for 2027.

Sailings are expected to range from one to four nights. Passengers will be able to combine voyages into longer itineraries, offering more flexibility than traditional cruise formats.

Orient Express Corinthian measures 720 feet in length and has a beam of 83 feet. The yacht has a gross tonnage of approximately 26,200. Its three SolidSail rigs provide a combined sail area of roughly 48,500 square feet.