Amsterdam’s waterways were transformed into a living tableau of maritime history on August 20, 2025, as hundreds of historic tall ships from around the globe sailed into the city for SAIL 2025. The five-day festival, which celebrates Amsterdam’s storied relationship with the sea, began with a spectacle that drew throngs of spectators to the city’s canals and harbors, eager to witness the arrival of the majestic vessels.
The excitement was palpable from early morning as ships, their masts festooned with colorful flags, set off from the North Sea coastal town of IJmuiden. Their journey up the North Sea Canal and into Amsterdam’s IJ waterway marked the official start of SAIL 2025—the festival’s first edition in a decade, according to the Associated Press.
As the flotilla approached the city, anticipation mounted. Crowds packed every available vantage point along the canal, while hundreds more took to the water in smaller boats to accompany the tall ships on their final approach. For many, it was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to be part of a living tradition. Hugo Peek, a 21-year-old student, joined his grandfather and other family members aboard a small boat trailing the impressive tall ship Europa. "There was almost no water. It’s almost all boats," Peek told reporters, marveling at the sheer density of vessels on the water.
The ceremonial start of the event was marked in dramatic fashion. As the replica three-masted clipper Stad Amsterdam passed through a lock, a puff of orange smoke erupted into the sky and the air was filled with the sound of ship horns. This moment signaled the official opening of the festival, setting the tone for the days to come. Each ship, upon entering the harbor, was greeted with two cannon shots and the playing of its country’s national anthem—a gesture that underscored the international flavor of the gathering and paid tribute to the maritime heritage of each nation represented.
For some visitors, the festival came as a surprise. Mahek Singahl, who was waiting at Amsterdam’s central train station with her two children and several suitcases, had no idea what the crowds were for. "My husband went to look at the boats and left me here," she said with a laugh. "He loves this stuff." Their family, en route back to Ivory Coast after a holiday in Iceland, had stumbled upon the festivities by chance, joining the hundreds of thousands drawn to the city for the occasion.
SAIL 2025 is more than just a parade of ships—it’s a celebration of Amsterdam’s deep-rooted connection to the sea. The festival, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, is held every five years. The tradition began in 1975, when the first SAIL event was organized to mark Amsterdam’s 700th anniversary. This year’s edition holds special significance, coinciding with the city’s 750th birthday and marking the tenth time the event has taken place. The 2020 edition was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, making this year’s gathering all the more anticipated and cherished by participants and spectators alike.
The parade on August 20 culminated in a dazzling evening fireworks display, lighting up the night sky and reflecting off the waters of the IJ. But the festivities were far from over. The ships, many of which are open for public tours, will remain in Amsterdam through the weekend, giving locals and tourists alike the opportunity to step aboard and experience maritime history firsthand.
The scale of SAIL 2025 is impressive by any measure. According to reports from the Associated Press and other outlets, ships from all over the world—each bearing the unique marks of its home country—participated in the event. The barkentine Antigua, among others, was spotted gliding into the harbor, its rigging adorned with flags. The spectacle of so many historic vessels gathered in one place created a sense of awe and nostalgia, recalling the days when Amsterdam was at the heart of global trade and exploration.
What makes SAIL particularly special is its ability to bring people together, both on the water and on land. The event is a magnet for maritime enthusiasts, history buffs, and families seeking a memorable outing. It’s also a testament to the enduring appeal of tall ships—a symbol of adventure, craftsmanship, and the enduring human fascination with the sea.
Each visiting ship’s arrival was marked by a carefully orchestrated ceremony. The firing of two cannon shots and the playing of the vessel’s national anthem served as a formal welcome, but also as a reminder of the international camaraderie that defines SAIL. It’s a moment when history and modernity meet, as centuries-old traditions are revived against the backdrop of a bustling, contemporary city.
The festival’s origins are deeply intertwined with Amsterdam’s identity. The inaugural SAIL in 1975 was a highlight of the city’s 700th birthday celebrations, and subsequent editions have continued to honor that legacy. This year, as Amsterdam marks its 750th year, the city’s maritime past feels especially present. The gathering of ships is not just a nod to history, but a living demonstration of the skills, stories, and communities that have shaped the city over the centuries.
For many, the festival is a chance to reconnect with traditions that might otherwise be lost to time. It’s a moment to reflect on how the sea has shaped not only Amsterdam, but the world beyond. And for those who travel from afar—whether by sea or by train—it’s an invitation to join in a celebration that transcends borders and generations.
As the weekend approaches, the city is bracing for even larger crowds. The tall ships, now moored along the IJ, will welcome visitors onboard, offering a rare glimpse into the life of sailors past and present. From the creak of wooden decks to the snap of canvas sails, every detail serves as a reminder of the enduring romance of the sea.
With the return of SAIL after a decade-long hiatus and the added significance of Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary, this year’s festival stands out as a milestone in the city’s ongoing story. For those lucky enough to witness it, SAIL 2025 is more than just an event—it’s a living, breathing celebration of heritage, community, and the timeless allure of the open water.
