SAIL Amsterdam
SAIL Amsterdam - Tips and information about one of the largest nautical events in the world!
In 2025, the five-yearly event SAIL Amsterdam will take place in Amsterdam. This five-day nautical festival, in which more than 800(!) of the most beautiful sailing ships sail through Amsterdam, is a true spectacle. It attracts more than 2 million visitors! This makes it one of the largest nautical events in the world.
The fact that it does not take place every year, but every five years makes the event extra special. SAIL Amsterdam was founded in 1975 to celebrate the 700th anniversary of the city of Amsterdam. Now, 50 years later, it is not only the 10th edition, but also a celebration of the 750th anniversary of our Mokum. This promises to be an extra special edition. During the SAIL there are different activities per day.
The Parade
The name says it all, the parade is an incredibly large procession of small and large sailing boats that sail through the city. The participating ships include the largest sailing ships in the world, which sail a 12 kilometer long route right through Amsterdam. More than fifty so-called “Tall Ships” sail along. A Tall Ship is a sailing boat with multiple masts. Beautiful boats to look at :). It can get quite busy during the parade, so make sure you pick a good spot to enjoy it! One of the best places to see all the boats is at the Eye museum, just across the Buikslotermeer ferry in Amsterdam Noord. From there you have a beautiful view over the entire IJ, and you can see hundreds of sailing ships at the same time. A sight you will never forget. Another not so well-known spot is at the FC Hyena cinema. This cinema located on the water is often nice and quiet and has a beautiful view over the IJ!
SAIL Music Marina
Since the previous edition of SAIL Amsterdam, there is a new item on the program: the SAIL Music Marina. During this musical event, several concerts can be visited freely :)! A true family event. The exact line-up has yet to be announced, but we do know that the prestigious Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra will perform.
Want to come along?
For those who want to sail with the parade, there are still tickets for sale . You can choose to sail for an hour in a classic Amsterdam canal boat, but a sloop or even a Tall Ship are also available! Be quick, because the event always sells out quickly!