Orient Express Corinthian, the world’s largest sailing ship, was christened on April 29, in Saint-Nazaire, France, and delivered to her owners, Orient Express Sailing Yachts, as part of the expansion of the fabled brand. With a displacement of approximately 15,000 metric tons, the ship is unique and has already set a speed record for wind propulsion for ships of its size.
Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, the companies highlight that it is the product of a decade of research and design. The shipyard developed the SolidSail technology that powers the ship, and that it sees as a technical response to the challenges of decarbonizing maritime transport.
The sailing yacht is equipped with three rigs, each spanning 1,500 square meters and towering over 100 meters high. They are fully automated and capable of providing 100 percent wind-powered propulsion, weather permitting. Capable of rotating 360 degrees, they allow for optimal sail positioning regardless of the ship’s heading or wind direction. Tilting up to 70 degrees permits the carbon masts to pass beneath bridges and other air draft restrictions. More here.
