Orient Express new cruise venture unveiled

Details have emerged of the first Orient Express sailing yacht due to enter service in 2026.

The Orient Express Silenseas is to be powered by a 1,500 square metre wind propulsion system with three sails and a hybrid system powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG).

The hybrid propulsion formula will combine wind power with a state-of-the-art engine running on LNG with plans to use green hydrogen once the technology is approved for ocean passenger ships, according to parent company Accor.

The 220-metre-long vessel will have 54 suites measuring an average of 70 square metres and a 1,215 square metre presidential suite.

A letter of intent has been signed for two vessels with the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard.

The first Orient Express ship is to sail in the Mediterranean in summer to destinations such as including Portofino, Capri and Saint Tropez and in the Caribbean in winter.

In an Instagram post, Orient Express said: "The exceptional sailing yacht will also feature an Ampitheatre-Cabaret on board complimented by a private recording studio to give voice to the most beautiful melodies at sea."

The project will be financed up to 80% by commercial banks, with the remainder provided by a consortium of equity partners in which Accor will have a minority stake.

Accor chief executive Sebastien Bazin said: “With Orient Express Silenseas, we are beginning a new chapter in our history, taking the experience and excellence of luxury travel and transposing it onto the world’s most beautiful seas.

“This exceptional sailing yacht, with roots in Orient Express’ history, will offer unparalleled service and refined design spaces, reminiscent of the golden age of mythical cruises.

“Innovation is at the heart of this ultra-modern ship that will revolutionise the maritime world with new technology to meet today’s sustainability challenges.

“It is a boat designed to make dreams a reality, a showcase for the best of French savoir-faire.”