Two Luxury Orient Express Cruises to Set Sail in Dubai

French hospitality giant Accor is reportedly in advanced discussions with Dubai Holding, the investment arm of the Emirate of Dubai, to secure funding for the development of two ultra-luxury cruise liners under the iconic Orient Express brand.

The two opulent Orient Express yachts, currently under construction by renowned French shipbuilder Chantiers de l'Atlantique, are scheduled for launch in 2026 and 2027.

The first of the two mammoth vessels, Orient Express Silenseas, will boast 54 exclusive suites – including a 15,200-square-foot presidential suite – two pools, two restaurants, an oyster bar, a speakeasy, a theatre, a spa and a private recording studio.

Taking cues from the ambiance of the French Riviera, the interiors of the yacht will be fashioned by architect Maxime d’Angeac, who also holds the responsibility of refurbishing and modernising the historic Orient Express carriages for the 2025 train revival.

Predicted to be the world’s largest sailing yacht upon launch, Silenseas will also be environmentally friendly, possessing a hybrid propulsion system that generates fewer emissions compared to traditional diesel-powered vessels.

“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,” Sébastien Bazin, CEO of Accor, tells SceneTraveller. “This exceptional boat, with roots in Orient Express’ history, will offer unparalleled service and refined design spaces, reminiscent of the golden age of mythical cruises.”

With voyages potentially reaching a price point of EUR 20,000 per guest, Silenseas will sail the Mediterranean in the summer and the Caribbean in the winter.