Revolutionary Sail-Powered Cruise Ship Sets New Speed Record
The sail-powered cruise ship Orient Express Corinthian has successfully completed its propulsion tests, achieving a remarkable speed for a vessel of its size. Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the ship is set to enter service in May 2026 as part of Accor Group’s inaugural cruise offering. With its innovative design and luxurious amenities, the Orient Express Corinthian is poised to redefine ultra-luxury cruising.
Innovative Design and Specifications
The Orient Express Corinthian is a 25,200 gross ton cruise ship that boasts 54 suites, accommodating up to 110 passengers. Measuring 220 meters (721 feet) in length, it features Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s cutting-edge Solid Sail system, which includes three masts and an impressive 4,500 square meters (nearly 48,500 square feet) of sail area. Additionally, the ship is equipped with an LNG-fueled motor, enhancing its eco-friendly profile. This vessel surpasses the next largest sailing cruise ships, which are 15,000 gross ton sister ships operated by Wind Star and Club Med.
After its initial sea trials in December, the ship recently completed propulsion tests, demonstrating its capabilities under sail. With wind speeds reaching 20 knots, the Orient Express Corinthian achieved a speed of 12 knots solely using its sails, marking a significant milestone for a ship of this size. Chantiers de l’Atlantique anticipates that the ship will ultimately reach speeds of up to 17 knots.
Designed for the ultra-luxury market, the ship will feature five restaurants, private dining spaces, and suites ranging from 485 square feet to nearly 2,500 square feet. Guests will also enjoy a fitness and yoga studio, a spa, and an outdoor swimming pool, along with a retractable marina for water activities.
Future Developments and Industry Impact
Accor’s entry into the cruise segment was announced in 2023 with the order of two sail-powered cruise ships, aiming to expand the renowned Orient Express brand. The Orient Express Corinthian is the first of these vessels, with the second ship, Orient Express Olympian, currently under construction and scheduled for delivery in spring 2027.
The Orient Express Corinthian features three 69-meter (226-foot) carbon fiber masts mounted on unique balestron rigs. Each mast provides 1,500 square meters of sail area, with the ability to rotate sails 360 degrees and tilt up to 70 degrees, allowing the ship to navigate under low bridges and obstacles. This innovative design has been in development since 2009, with extensive testing conducted to refine the technology.
The cruise industry is witnessing a new phase of ultra-luxury offerings, as hotel brands like Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton also enter the market. These developments are expected to attract new travelers and establish a higher price point in the rapidly growing cruise segment. As the Orient Express Corinthian prepares for its debut, it stands as a testament to the future of luxury cruising.
