SAIL Amsterdam 2025: A Nautical Spectacle

Set your compass for 20–24 August 2025, when Amsterdam transforms into the world’s most spectacular maritime stage. SAIL Amsterdam is no ordinary event—it’s the globe’s biggest free nautical festival, staged only once every five years. The upcoming edition is even more special, marking the 10th SAIL and the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam itself. Double anniversary incoming!

Get ready for an unforgettable parade of tall ships, great daytime activities, and thousands of vessels sailing together in a unique celebration of seafaring tradition and modern festivity. Here is our 4 day guide to make the most of SAIL. Ahoy!

Day 1: SAIL‑In Parade

On 20 August, the festival launches with the legendary SAIL‑In Parade. From our famous North Sea Canal, which connects Amsterdam to the sea, dozens of majestic tall ships will appear on the horizon. They pay tribute to the one crucial vessel that turned Amsterdam into the richest city in the world during the famous Golden Age: the sailing ship! As a seafarer nation, the Netherlands – and us Amsterdamers specifically – are proud of the impressive ships that had a big impact in making our canal city what it is today. Want to learn more about Amsterdams impressive trade history? Then you shouldn’t miss out on our cultural inner city tour!

If you don’t only want to hear fascinating facts, but also experience history with your own eyes – SAIL is the place to be. This is your chance to see icons like the Shabab Oman II, Le Phoenix, and Pogoria up close, all converging on the IJ harbour for four magical days.

Day 2 and Day 3: Spectacular SAIL activities

While the ships are the stars of the show, the festival is alive with music, culture, and entertainment. Everywhere along the IJ, and specifically the Eastern harbour area, fun activities and performances are waiting to be discovered.

– SAIL On Stage concerts fill the evenings with performances by artists such as Rolf Sanchez, Jan Smit, 3JS, and Davina Michelle.

– A vibrant marketplace showcases maritime crafts, rope-making demos, and street theatre. Get your hands dirty and create your own interpretation of SAIL.

– Families can enjoy a dedicated kids village, food trucks, and a Ferris wheel overlooking the IJ. Couples, friends and colleagues equally welcome. 😉

– The highlight will certainly be the 750 seconds of fireworks, honoring Amsterdam’s 750th birthday in spectacular fashion. Fireworks have generally been banned in Amsterdam – but for this special anniversary, the city is making an exception. A spectacle not to be missed!

Ways to Experience SAIL

1) On Foot (free):
Stroll the quays, grab a drink, and feel the festival energy from the waterfront. This is a great opportunity to check out all activities and just float through the festival as you go. Try out some of the workshops, score some treasures at a market and spend quality time with your loved ones. Psst… this is a completely free option!

2) By Water (not free, but fun):
If you want to get up close, there are many opportunities to become a part of SAIL on a boat. Book one of many themed cruises—from short sightseeing trips to premium Sail‑In and Sail‑Out experiences. Expect packages that include meals, commentary, and the best seats for fireworks. Amsterdam isn’t called the inventor of capitalism for no reason, so this option does not come for free. Prices range from around €65 to €249 depending on the duration and inclusions. If you are a true sailor, this experience will be worth it!

3) With Your Own Boat (jackpot):
Owning a bike is a given in Amsterdam. If you are lucky enough to own your own boat – you definitely made it in Amsterdam. Good news for all boat owners: Private vessels are welcome to ride along! They must follow special navigation rules and permits along the IJ, however. Expect speed restrictions, lock closures, and convoy regulations.

Day 4: The Sail‑Out and Admiralty Salute

Amsterdams birthday SAIL week ends on 24th of August – with a bang. Just as the big Sail-In Parade, the ships will have a ceremonial Sail-Out Parade which should not be missed. If you didn’t get the chance to have a glance at the impressive ships, it’s now or never! For a last time, spectators all along the river Ij come together to celebrate the exit of the ships, closing the festival with a final wave of horns and applause. The traditional Dutch ‘Admiraalzeilen‘ (24th of August in the morning) features the fleet paying tribute to the Admiral of the Day in a ceremonial salute.

Tips to navigate through SAIL

Transport: Huge crowds and maritime traffic mean you’ll need patience. Arrive early, especially if you’re cruising or hoping for the best shore views. You can check the Dutch navigation app 9292 for updates and up-to-date travel advice.

Timing: Crowds are not your thing but you don’t want to miss out on the fun? Mornings and weekdays are your best shot to experience SAIL in a quieter fashion.

Tickets: Land access is free, but cruises and evening events often sell out months in advance—get your hands on the scarce tickets as soon as possible to secure your spot. Definitely also keep an eye out on Ticketswap for last minute access to your favourite event.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
Scale: Over 2 million visitors are expected, making this Europe’s largest maritime event.
History: From the festival’s debut in 1975 to today, SAIL celebrates centuries of Dutch seafaring heritage.
Uniqueness: This is the only SAIL that coincides with Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary—there will never be another like it.

SAIL 2025, 20th–24th August
Location: IJ Harbour, Amsterdam
Whether you join by land or water, during the day or under the fireworks, SAIL Amsterdam is your chance to witness a living, floating celebration that comes around only once every five years.

Ready to catch the wind? Mark your calendar, plan your visit, and be part of this unforgettable maritime event!

Catch you on the water!