In 2026, a new era of opulence takes to the seas as the Orient Express embarks on an extraordinary journey. Building upon its rich heritage of 140 years of iconic train travel, the Orient Express now unveils its latest endeavor: the Orient Express Silenseas. This groundbreaking announcement ushers in a new chapter in the world of luxury travel, coinciding with the unprecedented popularity of cruises that shows no signs of waning. Get ready to indulge in the epitome of top-shelf experiences as the Orient Express sets sail with the Silenseas, promising a voyage like no other.
The Orient Express Silenseas will house 54 suites, in addition to swimming pools, restaurants, and a theater.
Maxime d’Angeac & Martin Darzacq for Orient Express, Accor
The project sees French shipbuilders Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Accor team up to create a vessel unlike any other, powered by a revolutionary 1,500 square meter wind propulsion system, and a hybrid propulsion system powered by liquefied natural gas.
Itineraries and interiors will be inspired by the golden age of the French Riviera, when this stretch of coastline played host to writers, artists, royalty, and intellectuals inspired by the shores they stumbled upon.
The 220-meter-long boat will have 54 suites measuring an average of 70 square meters. However, the jewel in the crown, and no doubt the most sought-after suite, will be the 1,215 square meter presidential suite, complete with a sprawling private terrace overlooking the waves.
Lucky travelers will be able to unwind beside two swimming pools, dine on seasonal fare across two restaurants, and sip on masterful cocktails in a speakeasy bar. Refined entertainment will be hosted in a state-of-the-art amphitheater. There will even be a private recording studio.
In addition to its sails, the Orient Express yacht will feature a hybrid propulsion system powered by liquefied natural gas.
Maxime d’Angeac & Martin Darzacq for Orient Express, Accor
The Orient Express ship is set to sail the Mediterranean riviera in the summer, with stops including Portofino, Capri, and Saint Tropez, as well as the Caribbean in the winter.
Regarding the upcoming launch, chairman and CEO of Accor Sébastien 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 revolutionize 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.”
This article originally appeared on Condé Nast Traveller U.K.