Orient Express Silenseas will be the first of two vessels as part of a collaboration between Orient Express owner Accor and shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique. 

Accor said the project would be “70-80%” financed by commercial banks, while the rest would be provided by a consortium of shareholders within which Accor would participate as a minor partner.

At 220m long and comprising 54 suites with an average area of 70sq/m, including a 1415sq/m presidential suite with a 530sq/m private terrace, the vessel is claimed to be largest sailing ship in the world. 

It will also feature two swimming pools, two restaurants and its speakeasy bar, as well as an “amphitheatre cabaret” and a private recording studio.

The vessel’s interior design comes from French architect Maxime d’Angeac and is inspired by “the golden age of the French Riviera”, while the Nantes design agency Stirling Design International designed the ship’s exterior.

The ship will use Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s “revolutionary” SolidSail technology, able to provide up to 100% propulsion in suitable weather conditions, while a mix of wind power and liquefied natural gas will allow the vessel use of green hydrogen once the fuel has been adapted for ocean-going passenger ships.

Sebastien Bazin, Accor’s chair and chief executive, said the building of Orient Express Silenseas would herald “a new chapter” for the hotel giant.

“This exceptional sailboat, with roots anchored in the history of Orient Express, will offer unparalleled service and spaces with refined designs, reminiscent of the golden age of legendary cruises,” he said.

“Innovation is at the heart of this ultra-modern sailboat which will revolutionise the maritime world with new technologies to meet sustainable challenges.”