France strengthens its leadership in global shipbuilding as progress on the Orient Express Olympian reaches a crucial new stage at Chantiers de l’Atlantique. The project attracts strong international attention because travelers want more sustainable and luxurious sea journeys. The Orient Express brand carries enormous prestige. Many travelers associate the name with refined service and timeless design. The launch of this ship signals a major shift in the future of high-end ocean travel.
Keel Laying Starts a New Construction Phase
Chantiers de l’Atlantique completed the keel laying for the Orient Express Olympian in St. Nazaire. This stage marks the official start of the ship’s structural assembly. Workers finished the first steel cut early in 2025. The new step shows clear progress in the ambitious plan led by Orient Express Yachts, which operates under the Accor Group.
A traditional coin ceremony took place during the event. Builders placed new coins on the first steel block. The gesture symbolized good fortune and honored long-standing maritime customs. The ceremony also highlighted the shared commitment between the French shipyard and Orient Express Yachts. Both teams want to craft a vessel that sets new global standards in luxury tourism.
Block Assembly Brings Precision and Strength
Engineers used a massive gantry crane to position the first hull block. The crane lifted the steel section with great accuracy. This block represents the first of seventeen units that will form the full metal hull. Workers will assemble each segment in a strict sequence. This method ensures strength, consistency, and perfect alignment.
Chantiers de l’Atlantique uses block assembly on its largest and most advanced ships. The technique supports complex designs and helps teams manage the ship’s innovative technologies. The approach also guarantees strong quality control during each stage of construction. France continues to hold a leading position in naval engineering, and this vessel reinforces that reputation.
Strong Partnership Fuels Maritime Innovation
The shipyard continues work on the Orient Express Corinthian at the same time. The twin projects highlight the strength of the partnership between Chantiers de l’Atlantique and Orient Express Yachts. Both companies want to redefine premium maritime tourism.
The Corinthian and the Olympian will rank among the world’s largest sailing yachts. The scale and ambition of both projects support France’s long-term strategy to grow its tourism economy. The alliance also blends the design heritage of the Orient Express brand with the engineering power of one of Europe’s most respected shipyards.
SolidSail Technology Powers Sustainable Travel
The ship will feature the SolidSail system, a breakthrough in modern sailing propulsion. The system uses three giant tiltable masts that support huge composite sails. These sails cover 4,500 square meters. The captain can control every element from the bridge. The system reacts smoothly to wind and weather, which improves both performance and safety.
The Olympian can travel using only wind in good conditions. This capability reduces fuel use and lowers emissions. When needed, engines that run on LNG will support the sails. LNG produces fewer emissions than traditional marine fuels. France supports cleaner maritime travel, and this technology aligns with its environmental goals. The project also matches rising global expectations for responsible luxury tourism.
Dynamic Positioning Protects Ocean Environments
The ship includes a dynamic positioning system that locks its location without an anchor. This feature protects seabeds in fragile zones. Many coastal regions now encourage this practice to reduce underwater damage. The feature gives the crew greater freedom in bays and coves where anchoring could harm marine ecosystems.
The Olympian will also use routing strategies inspired by offshore racing. This approach helps the crew optimize wind use and limit fuel reliance. The system calculates efficient paths for each voyage. This blend of sport-grade navigation and luxury cruising marks a new chapter for high-end maritime travel.
Timelines Reflect Steady and Strategic Progress
The Orient Express Corinthian will begin sea trials in December. It will welcome guests in the Mediterranean in May 2026. The Olympian follows close behind. The timeline confirms strong momentum across the entire Orient Express Yachts program. Both vessels will target travelers who want meaningful experiences, elegant design, and sustainable travel solutions.
France sees strong benefits from the program. The construction effort supports jobs, expands local expertise, and enhances global visibility for French tourism.
A New Era for Luxury Sea Travel Begins in France
The Orient Express Olympian will redefine how travelers experience the ocean. The ship blends cutting-edge sustainability with refined comfort and maritime artistry. Many industry experts expect strong demand for voyages on this vessel once it launches. Travelers want unique experiences that combine tradition with innovation.
France now stands at the center of this movement. The country invests in green technologies and supports new luxury travel concepts. The Olympian reflects these values with every part of its design. Once complete, the ship will offer a new vision of sea travel that respects nature and elevates global tourism standards.
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