Accor’s ambitions for luxurious cruise liners may soon materialize with ongoing discussions involving the French hospitality group and investment firm Dubai Holding. In January, Accor had unveiled plans for a new Orient Express ship, set to debut in spring 2026, and is now engaged in talks with Dubai Holding to secure approximately $867 million (€800 million) for the development of this vessel and another. If successful, Dubai Holding would emerge as the primary owner of the property company overseeing these yachts, enabling Accor to transfer the assets off its balance sheet, sources familiar with the matter reveal.
While various parties have been part of investment discussions, the negotiations with Dubai Holding are reported to be at a more advanced stage. The investment entity, led by Emirati ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, possesses assets valued at around $35 billion and currently owns the Jumeirah luxury hotel chain. It entered into a collaboration with Accor last year, aiming to establish hotels in the Emirate. This development underscores the increasing interest of Middle Eastern investors in the luxury sector, as investment funds tied to the rulers of the UAE and Saudi Arabia have significantly invested in hospitality and tourism ventures to diversify their economies.
Regarding the Orient Express fleet, the two branded ships are being constructed by French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, slated for launch in 2026 and 2027, respectively. The first vessel, Orient Express Silenseas, boasts impressive dimensions of 722 feet, set to become the world’s largest sailing yacht upon completion. This ship, unlike traditional yachts, offers accommodations and amenities reminiscent of a cruise ship. With 54 suites, a speakeasy bar, two swimming pools, two restaurants, and a spa, Silenseas promises a luxurious maritime experience.
In addition to opulence, Silenseas prioritizes environmental sustainability. It incorporates a patented SolidSail system featuring three tilting masts exceeding 300 feet each and three rigid sails covering nearly 5,000 square feet. These sails can provide up to 100 percent of propulsion under ideal conditions, with high-tech engines taking over when additional power is required. As a result, the hybrid design ensures reduced emissions compared to traditional diesel-powered ships and a nearly silent operation on the seas. Ticket prices for voyages on Silenseas are expected to reach up to $21,700.
Accor’s venture into the cruise industry aligns with a broader trend, as prominent brands like Ritz Carlton, Belmond, Aman, and Four Seasons invest millions to deliver a luxury hotel experience to guests at sea through innovative superyachts. This strategic move reflects the evolving landscape of luxury travel experiences, combining the allure of cruise voyages with the sophistication associated with high-end hospitality.
