Orient Express was a luxury passenger train service that became famous for its opulent carriages and luxury amenities, and was often used by wealthy travellers and celebrities. The route and service changed over the 140 years of its existence, but the name “Orient Express” remained synonymous with luxury train travel.
Soon Orient Express will conquer the sea, as the world’s largest sailing ship will launch in 2026 under the same brand. “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,” said Accor’s CEO. “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.”
The 220-metre-long vessel is a revolution in maritime history inspired by “the Golden Age of the French Riviera.” It can host up to 120 passengers, in 54 suites, including a monumental Presidential Suite of 1,415 square meters, and they can enjoy the 2 swimming pools, spa treatments, 2 restaurants, a speakeasy bar, a private recording studio and many more luxury amenities.
“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,” said Sébastien Bazin, Chairman and CEO, Accor.
Besides the Orient Express Silenseas which will sail the Mediterranean seas during the summer and the Caribbean Sea in the winter, Orient Express hotels around the world are in the work and some set to open next year. Also, from 2024, a luxury train service Orient Express La Dolce Vita will welcome its first passengers, offering them an unforgettable journey through Italy and “beyond including 3 international destinations from Rome to Paris, Istanbul and Split.”
Source: cnn.com