Orient Express is getting ready to make waves in 2027, and the brand’s newly revealed cruise deployment shows just how ambitious its plans are.
With the arrival of a second ship and an expanded range of destinations, the luxury label is clearly focused on delivering slow, thoughtful travel rather than rushed sightseeing.
The upcoming season will see both Orient Express ships sailing across some of Europe’s most iconic regions, combining classic ports with lesser-visited locations and a strong focus on culture, cuisine, and well-paced exploration.
A Fresh Start in the Mediterranean with a New Ship
The highlight of the 2027 season is the debut of the Orient Express Olympian, the company’s second vessel, which is currently being built in Marseille, France.
The ship is expected to welcome guests for the first time in late May, kicking off her maiden season in the Western Mediterranean.
Early itineraries will explore beloved coastal areas such as the Côte d’Azur, the Italian Riviera, and the Adriatic, along with select ports in Greece and Türkiye.
These sailings are designed to feel relaxed and immersive, allowing guests to truly experience each destination rather than simply pass through it.
At the same time, the Orient Express Corinthian will return for her second summer at sea, expanding the brand’s reach into the Eastern Mediterranean for the first time and adding even more variety to the overall offering.
Northern Europe Takes Center Stage Later in the Season
In early July, the Olympian will head north, marking Orient Express’s first-ever cruise season in Northern Europe. This move opens up a completely new side of the brand, with itineraries planned across the British Isles, Scandinavia, the North Sea, and the Baltic region.
Some sailings will depart directly from central London, offering guests an especially convenient and exclusive starting point.
Other routes will include ports like Copenhagen, Honfleur, and St. Malo, with opportunities to visit landmarks such as Mont-Saint-Michel. Nature lovers can also look forward to cruises through the Norwegian Fjords and the Danish Straits.
Orient Express says the 2027 itineraries are built around carefully chosen experiences, not just famous names on a map. Each voyage blends cultural encounters, unspoiled coastal scenery, and personalized moments on shore.
Onboard, guests can expect standout dining experiences curated by Michelin-starred chef Yannick Alléno, alongside wellness offerings created in collaboration with Guerlain. The goal is to create a journey that feels elegant, unrushed, and deeply memorable from start to finish.
With the Orient Express Corinthian set to enter service in May 2026, the 2027 season represents a major step forward as the brand settles into life as a two-ship luxury cruise operator.
