Soon, you’ll be able to experience sailing—yes, sailing—on the Orient Express.

The historic Orient Express, with a legacy spanning 140 years, provides train journeys that take travelers back to a glamorous age of rail travel. Soon, those seeking nostalgic luxury will also have the chance to enjoy this experience on the open sea, enhanced with modern amenities.

This week, the Orient Express revealed plans for the construction of what is being touted as "the world’s largest sailing ship," named the 120-passenger Orient Express Silenseas. The ship is expected to debut in 2026, with initial bookings available in early 2024.

Once it launches, the 720-foot-long, three-masted vessel will boast 54 suites, including an extraordinary 1,415-square-meter Presidential Suite that features an expansive private deck, two swimming pools, two dining options, an oyster bar, and a speakeasy. Additionally, there will be an Amphitheatre-Cabaret for live performances, along with a spa and meditation offerings.

The grand sailing yacht is being developed by two French firms: the hospitality giant Accor, known for its prestigious luxury hotel brands like Raffles and Fairmont, and the shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique. The partnership with Chantiers de l’Atlantique involves the creation of two yachts, with the first scheduled for delivery in March 2026 and the second by early 2027.

Similar to how the Orient Express revives vintage rail travel for the modern era with its refurbished classic trains and exceptional service reminiscent of a past age, the Orient Express Silenseas will also draw from historical influences. Its sleek hull takes inspiration from 1930s cruise liners, and interior designer Maxime d’Angeac, known for reimagining the original Orient Express train's interiors, has crafted the new sailing ship's interiors based on "the elegant and refined style of the French Riviera," as stated in the ship's launch announcement.

While maintaining a classic appearance, the Orient Express Silenseas will incorporate modern construction techniques and technology, utilizing a hybrid propulsion system that combines wind power with liquefied natural gas (LNG). The ship will harness energy from three rigid sails made of glass-polyester panels that fan out and will be raised onto tiltable 328-foot masts to maximize the benefits of ocean winds.

Where will the “Orient Express Silenseas” embark on its journeys?

Upon its launch, the Orient Express Silenseas will sail through the Mediterranean, Adriatic, and Aegean seas in the summer, and navigate the Caribbean Sea during winter. Port stops will feature "exclusive experiences to explore remarkable sites focused on art, culture, and nature," as stated by Orient Express.

Orient Express has yet to disclose pricing for the upcoming cruises, noting that costs will fluctuate based on the selected itineraries and onboard experiences.

A journey that has come full circle—from sea to rail and back to the sea

When the Orient Express was inaugurated in 1883 by Georges Nagelmackers, it drew inspiration from his transatlantic voyages nearly 20 years earlier, providing a refined rail experience. Nagelmackers was captivated by the splendor of these massive vessels, with their opulent passenger suites featuring lavish decor and exquisite marquetry. He immersed himself in the social life of the dining areas and the distinctive atmosphere of the lounges, libraries, and entertainment spaces, as noted by Orient Express.

This maritime experience played a crucial role in shaping Nagelmackers' vision for what would become the iconic Orient Express.

Since then, the Orient Express has transformed into a luxury travel brand encompassing a selection of exclusive trains and experiences. Soon, it will also debut its first hotels worldwide, including the Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovanelli in Venice, both set to open in 2024. The latest luxury train, Orient Express La Dolce Vita, will also start welcoming passengers in 2024.