Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique have reached a crucial milestone in the history of Orient Express Sailing Yachts with the keel laying of the brand’s second sailboat : the Orient Express Olympian.
By placing the first block of the Olympian on the shipyard’s slipway using one of the site’s imposing gantries, Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique officially marked the start of the hull assembly phase. This ritual, deeply rooted in naval tradition, follows the cutting of the first sheet of metal on January 30, 2025, ten months earlier.
During this ceremony, known as the “Pièce,” freshly minted coins were placed on the steel block, a customary gesture intended to bring good luck to the ship throughout its life.
Towards an exceptional construction
The Olympian is constructed from 17 metal sections, the first of which has just been installed. Once all the blocks have been assembled, the ship will be transferred to a fitting-out dock to install its refined interior fittings. Delivery is expected in spring 2027, approximately one year after its sister ship, the Orient Express Corinthian.
This sailing ship will be 220 meters long, making it one of the largest sailing ships in the world.
Its propulsion is based on the SolidSail innovation developed by Chantiers de l’Atlantique : three self-supporting, tilting masts will carry up to 4,500 m² of sail area. Depending on conditions, the ship will be able to sail under sail alone, or in hybrid mode combining sail and liquefied natural gas engines. The rigging is fully automated from the bridge.
Beyond this technical feat, the Olympian incorporates cutting-edge dynamic positioning technology. This innovation allows it to remain stationary in bays without dropping anchor, thus preserving fragile or protected seabeds.
In addition, navigation routes will be optimized using routing tools inspired by ocean racing, maximizing wind usage and minimizing environmental impact.
The little brother in the works
While the Olympian enters its construction phase, Accor’s other luxury sailboat, the Orient Express Corinthian, is already in full preparation for sea trials. These are scheduled to begin in December, with a departure in May 2026 for the Mediterranean, followed by the Caribbean.
The ambition of Orient Express and the Accor group is clear: to offer a truly luxurious cruise experience that redefines sailing while respecting the environment.
With the launch of the Olympian, Orient Express Sailing Yachts is strengthening its position in this ultra-luxury market. Combining maritime heritage, exceptional design, and cutting-edge technology, this project represents a major step forward in the evolution of sailing cruises.
Read also > The Orient Express Corinthian raises its masts
Featured photo : © Accor
