In 1883, the luxurious Orient Express took to the rails for the first time – and revolutionized the way we travel. Rail travel became an exceedingly comfortable affair. Even today, more than 140 years later, the brand is still the epitome of luxury on rails. It stands for glamour and the charm of times gone by. But the brand – part of Accor – doesn't dwell on the past. In addition to three hotel openings in 2024, another launch is already causing a stir: in 2026, Orient Express will send the world's largest sailing ship on its first voyage across the seas.

Orient Express Silenseas

Spread over a length of 220 meters are 54 suites, in addition to a restaurant, a spa, a speakeasy, two swimming pools, a recording studio, and a cabaret. These score with an average size of 70 square meters. The undisputed highlight, however, is the 1,415-square-meter presidential suite with a 530-square-meter private terrace.

2026 will see the launch of the world's largest sailing ship. © Maxime d'Angeac & Martin Darzacq

Renowned architect Maxime d'Angeac was hired for the interior design and decor. Stirling Design International from Nantes is responsible for the exterior design. The latter already designed Ponant's Le Command Charcot.

Sustainable sailing

In terms of design and furnishings, the ship is inspired by the golden era on the French Riviera. A time that stood for lightheartedness, when artists and literary figures lined the beaches of Saint-Tropez, populated Cannes and strolled along the Croisette together with extravagant film stars and royals. The project is the result of a collaboration between Accor and Chantiers de l'Atlantique, a world-leading shipbuilding company.

The new Silenseas © Maxime d'Angeac & Martin Darzacq

Thanks to a revolutionary technological concept, you can enjoy the luxury of a trip on the Silenseas with a green conscience. In suitable weather conditions, the three sails combined with a state-of-the-art engine are all that is needed. Liquefied natural gas (LNG) provides the engine propulsion. As soon as the technology is approved for ocean-going passenger ships, green hydrogen will be used instead of LNG.