Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique celebrated the keel laying of the Orient Express Olympian
A major milestone has just been marked in the world of luxury sailing: Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique celebrated the keel laying of the Orient Express Olympian, their second sailing yacht Key Highlights - Event Date: November 19, 2025, at Saint-Nazaire, France. - Symbolic Tradition: The keel laying included a Coin Ceremony, where newly minted coins were placed on the first steel block to bring good fortune to the vessel. - Size & Scale: - Length: 220 meters (721 ft) - Together with sister ship Orient Express Corinthian, they will be the largest sailing yachts in the world. - Innovation: - Powered by SolidSail technology – three tilting masts with rigid sails (1,500 m² each). - Hybrid propulsion combining sails with LNG-powered engines. - Dynamic positioning system to protect seabeds in fragile areas. - Timeline: - Delivery scheduled for spring 2027, one year after the Corinthian. - Orient Express Corinthian begins sea trials in December 2025 and will set sail in May 2026. Why It Matters This project blends maritime tradition with cutting-edge sustainability, reinforcing Orient Express’s vision of redefining luxury travel across trains, hotels, and now yachts. It also highlights the partnership between Accor and Chantiers de l’Atlantique, pushing boundaries in naval engineering and eco-conscious design
Follow us on Insta
