Every five years, Amsterdam becomes a floating festival, and this summer’s SAIL Amsterdam 2025 was its most spectacular yet. Marking the 10th edition, 50 years since the first SAIL, and the city’s 750th anniversary, the celebration drew more than 2.3 million visitors to the IJ harbor.
The festival opened with the SAIL-In Parade, an 11-kilometer procession of tall ships sailing from IJmuiden into the city. Historic vessels like the Stad Amsterdam led the way with blasts of orange smoke, while Spanish icons such as the Nao Victoria and Galeón Andalucía added centuries of history to the skyline.
From the water, the scene was overwhelming.
“There was almost no water. It’s almost all boats.” — Hugo Peek, 21, sailing aboard the Europa
Along the quays, music, floating markets, and light shows turned the harbor into a cultural stage. Families and travelers filled every dock and bridge to catch the spectacle.
“My husband went to look at the boats and left me here. He loves this stuff. But even for me, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the energy.” — Mahek Singahl, visitor with her children
Beyond the festivities, SAIL highlighted sustainability through the Kaap de Groene Hoop Market and its “Wavemakers” program, blending maritime tradition with modern values.
🌊⛵ In 2025, Amsterdam once again proved why SAIL is more than a festival—it’s a global meeting point on the water.
