After undertaking extensive renovation work on the legendary Orient Express to get it back on track soon, Accor is now tackling the cruise sector with the launch of the world's largest sailing ship, Orient Express Silenseas.

Born of a unique tricolour association between Accor and Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the leading cruise ship builder, the Orient Express Silenseas will set sail in 2026, 104 years after the launch of the first Orient Express luxury trains.

This 220-metre long "sailing ship of the future" will celebrate the Art of Travel according to Orient Express through its 54 Suites with an average surface area of 70 square metres, including its 1415-square-metre Presidential Suite with its own private terrace.

The luxurious offer of this new cruise ship will be completed by 2 swimming pools including a swim lane, two restaurants, a speakeasy bar, a Spa, an Amphitheatre-Cabaret and a private recording studio.

The architect Maxime d'Angeac designed the interior layout and decor, while the Nantes-based design agency Stirling Design International drew up the exterior lines. Hetland Maritime also assisted Accor with the implementation of the project and the discussions with Chantiers de l'Atlantique.

For a more environmentally friendly sea voyage, a hybrid formula will combine wind power with a "state of the art" engine running on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and will allow the use of green hydrogen once the technologies are accepted for an ocean-going passenger ship. 

With Orient Express Silenseas, we open a new chapter in our history: the experience and excellence of luxury travel transposed to the most beautiful seas in the world. This exceptional yacht, with its roots in the history of Orient Express, 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 sailing ship, which will revolutionise the maritime world with new technologies to meet sustainable challenges. A yacht designed to give way to dreams, and a showcase for the best of French know-how. 

Sébastien Bazin, CEO, Accor