Construction Begins on the Second Orient Express Cruise Ship: Olympian
Chantiers de l’Atlantique (CdA) has announced the keel-laying ceremony for the Orient Express Olympian, marking the beginning of assembly for the second ship in the Orient Express Sailing Yacht series. This significant event took place at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire and involved the placement of the first structural block in the dry dock. Following the commencement of steel cutting ten months earlier, the vessel is on track for delivery in spring 2027.
Each vessel, measuring 220 meters, is set to be one of the largest sailing ships globally and will be the first cruise ships using CdA’s groundbreaking SolidSail wind-assist technology. This system features three tilting masts equipped with 4,500 square meters of rigid sails, designed to reduce fuel consumption by enabling the yacht to operate solely on wind power in favorable conditions, supplemented by LNG propulsion in a hybrid mode.
The inaugural yacht of the series, the OE Corinthian, is set to participate in sea trials in December, where builders will assess the performance of the SolidSail technology, which is expected to achieve speeds of up to 17 knots. The yachts are also designed with sustainability in mind, integrating technologies like an AI marine mammal detection system to help prevent collisions and dynamic positioning to protect seabeds from anchor damage. Expert consultations are being conducted to create sailing itineraries that make the most of optimal wind conditions.
This project not only marks a significant expansion of the Orient Express brand beyond its traditional rail beginnings but also emphasizes a blend of luxury cruising and maritime innovation.
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At CruiseShip.net, our editorial team is made up of passionate travelers, seasoned cruisers, and maritime industry enthusiasts who live and breathe life at sea. From the latest ship launches and destination spotlights to detailed reviews and onboard tips, we are dedicated to helping readers discover the joy of cruising. Our mission is to make every article both inspiring and useful, whether you are planning your first voyage or your fiftieth. We research, fact-check, and collaborate with cruise insiders around the world to bring you accurate, up-to-date, and exciting coverage of the global cruise industry. Join us as we chart new horizons, exploring one port, one ship, and one unforgettable experience at a time.
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