Every 10 years, the waters of Amsterdam turn into a floating wonderland. And in 2025, it’s happening again — the Sail Amsterdam Festival is back from August 20 to 24.
This isn’t just a boat parade. It’s the world’s largest gathering of tall ships, drawing millions of spectators and vessels from every corner of the globe. From vintage windjammers to modern naval ships, the spectacle is unlike anything else on water.
“It’s like a living museum at sea,” said one festival-goer during the 2015 edition. “But louder, bigger, and more beautiful than you can imagine.”
Held once every decade, Sail Amsterdam transforms the city’s harbor into a giant maritime stage. Visitors can walk along the docks, hop aboard historic ships, or simply watch hundreds of vessels sail by in one breathtaking flotilla.
In 2015, over 2.3 million people attended the five-day event. 2025 is expected to break that record.
But there’s a catch: if you miss it, you’ll have to wait until 2035. No encores. No replays.
With just months to go, excitement is building fast. For maritime fans, families, photographers, and curious travelers alike — Sail 2025 is the one event you don’t want to miss.
