Orient Express Launches World’s Largest Luxury Sailing Yacht for Ultra-Wealthy Travelers
The iconic luxury brand Orient Express, known for its historic trains, has expanded into the maritime luxury market with the launch of the Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht. Measuring 220 meters in length, the yacht accommodates only 110 guests across 54 suites, offering an exclusive experience with personal butlers, gourmet restaurants, a secret bar, spa, private marina, and even a recording studio. The project is a collaboration between Accor Hotels and luxury conglomerate LVMH, who see luxury experiences as the next growth driver in the sector.
Accor CEO Sébastien Bazin explained to Reuters that the yacht targets ultra-wealthy individuals who already own multiple homes, cars, and watches, and now seek unique experiences and recognition. The company anticipates increased demand from a new wave of billionaires emerging from the AI revolution. According to Bain & Company, the luxury experience market is expected to grow by 9% to 11% this year, outpacing traditional luxury goods. The yacht features three 69-meter masts with 4,500 square meters of sails made from carbon fiber and fiberglass, blending advanced technology with design inspired by the golden age of travel.
The yacht’s artistic director, Maxime d’Angeac, aimed to create an atmosphere more akin to a luxury hotel than a ship, using uncommon materials like large marble slabs, glass, polished wood, and fine fabrics. Suites range from 47 square meters with panoramic windows and marble bathrooms to duplex penthouses with private jacuzzis and replicas of the original 1927 Orient Express sleeping cabins. Dining is overseen by French chef Yannick Alléno, holder of 18 Michelin stars, with five restaurants and eight bars onboard, including a recreated train bar and a hidden speakeasy.
Additional amenities include two swimming pools, a Guerlain spa, a library with 1,500 books, a cinema, card game room, recording studio, and private marina for water sports. This launch follows a trend among luxury hotel brands like Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and Aman entering the yacht market to offer high-end sea experiences. For example, Four Seasons’ first yacht, launched earlier this year, costs around 400 million euros, accommodates 222 guests, and offers 11 dining venues, a large pool, and exclusive ports inaccessible to large cruise ships. Weekly rates start at about $20,000, with the top-tier Funnel Suite priced between $320,000 and $350,000 per week.
The Four Seasons yacht is captained by Kate McCue, the first American woman to command a mega cruise ship. The Orient Express Corinthian represents a new chapter for the brand, combining heritage with cutting-edge luxury travel at sea, targeting a clientele that prioritizes exclusive, personalized experiences over material possessions.
