World’s largest sailing yacht, Orient Express Corinthian, takes to the waters June 2026

Orient Express sets a new standard of excellence, bringing a spirit of quiet revolution to the world of exceptional sailing.

In June 2026, Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing yacht, will take to the open sea, tracing a course through the French and Italian Rivieras, jewels of the Mediterranean and Adriatic seas.

A triumph of engineering and artistry, Orient Express Corinthian is the product of a visionary collaboration between Orient Express and Chantiers de l’Atlantique, a world leader in naval innovation. Designed with both grandeur and purpose, the vessel represents a seamless convergence of ultimate refinement and cutting-edge innovation, two hallmarks of French excellence.

About Orient Express Corinthian

Her dimensions are extraordinary—220 meters (722 feet) in length, with three towering masts supporting 1,500 square meters (16,145 square feet) of rigid sails. Yet beyond its sheer scale, she is a pioneer: Orient Express Corinthian is the first sailing yacht equipped with the revolutionary ‘SolidSail’ propulsion system.

Its three tilting, rotating masts optimize performance under sail, harnessing the wind with exceptional efficiency and reducing reliance on conventional fuels. This advanced system is further supported by a hybrid propulsion solution powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which offers a substantial reduction in emissions compared to traditional marine fuels, marking a meaningful step toward more sustainable navigation.

The commitment to sustainability runs deep. An AI-driven detection system minimizes the risk of marine mammal collisions, while dynamic positioning technology eliminates the need for anchoring, preserving delicate seabeds. Every aspect of the ship’s design is calibrated to protect the ocean it traverses.

Reservations open on March 25, 2025. Join the journey at orient-express.com/sailingyachts today.

There’s a new luxury yacht sailing the French Riviera in May 2026

In May 2026, Ponant Explorations will debut a brand-new eight-day itinerary along the Côte d’Azur aboard its iconic three-masted sailing yacht, Le Ponant.

Beginning and ending in Nice, the elegant vessel — the world’s first Relais & Châteaux sailing yacht — will chart an unforgettable course east to the colourful Italian fishing village of Portofino before gliding back along the French Riviera. Along the way, guests will discover coastal gems such as the citrus-hued port of Menton, the glamour-soaked shores of Antibes, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, and the charming, lesser-known port of Cassis. 

Stretching nearly 300 feet and recently refitted by Jean-Philippe Nuel Studio, Le Ponant accommodates just 32 guests in 16 stylish staterooms, each boasting panoramic windows with sea views.

Guests can lounge on the sun deck beneath the billowing white sails, sip a cocktail from the outdoor bar, indulge in Biologique Recherche spa treatments, or savour organic, Mediterranean-inspired dishes at the yacht’s restaurant, Le Diamant. All this unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the Mediterranean’s colourful seaside villages, parasol-dotted beaches, and dramatic coastal cliffs. 

Onshore, the adventure continues with curated excursions to the Riviera’s most iconic and cultural landmarks, following in the footsteps of Picasso and Bardot. Whether exploring charming villages or world-renowned historical sites, such as Portofino’s cliff top lighthouse and the old town of Antibes with its 16th-century ramparts, every stop offers another perspective on the Riviera’s wonders.

Back on board, guests can dive straight into the Mediterranean’s crystal-clear waters or make use of Le Ponant’s array of aquatic toys. From glass-bottomed kayaks and stand-up paddleboards to snorkelling gear and a saltwater pool, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the sea. 

 Itinerary details

The French Riviera under Le Ponant’s Sails 

Nice-Nice | 8 days, 7 nights 

May 7-14, 2026 

Fares starting from $12,220 per guest 

More information linked here.