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SAIL Amsterdam 2025 Guide: Dates, Parade, Cruises & Festival Highlights

Dozens of tall ships and other vessels gathered in the Ij River in Amsterdam
From 20 to 24 Aug 2025

SAIL Amsterdam 2025 – A Grand Maritime Celebration Returns

SAIL Amsterdam 2025 is one of Europe’s biggest tall ship festivals, returning to Amsterdam’s harbor after a ten-year break. This edition celebrates three milestones: the 10th SAIL, Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary, and 50 years since the first event in 1975.

Over 800 ships from 24 countries will sail into the IJ River, creating a breathtaking maritime parade. If you’re looking for unique things to do in Amsterdam in 2025, this event should top your list.

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When It Is & Programme Highlights

Dates: Wednesday, August 20 – Sunday, August 24, 2025.

Opening Day & Sail-In Parade (August 20)

The legendary Parade of Sail marks the start of the festival. Hundreds of tall ships sail into Amsterdam’s IJ Harbor from the North Sea Canal while crowds cheer along the waterfront. A truly cinematic moment.

Daily Festivities (August 21–23)

Enjoy open-ship visits, maritime demos, free events, concerts, food markets, and fireworks lighting up the sky every night. Families, photographers, and travelers all find something to love here.

Closing Day & Sail-Out Parade (August 24)

On Sunday, the ships depart Amsterdam in the majestic Sail-Out Parade. The perfect finale to this nautical celebration.

Most activities are free to watch, but special boat cruise tickets are available for those who want to experience the festival from the water.

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How to Experience SAIL Amsterdam 2025

On a Boat

Watching from the water is unbeatable.

  • Charter and Cruise Boats: Companies like Stromma and Lovers offer SAIL cruises — short one-hour rides (from €32) or special dinner/fireworks cruises (€90–€110). For the full experience, book the SAIL-In Parade cruise (€250) or the Sail-Out (€175).
  • Private Boats: Got a boat? You can register to join the event fleet yourself. A once-in-a-lifetime experience.

👉 Compare and book your Sail Amsterdam 2025 tickets via our partner Tiqets.

From the Land

Best free spots to watch the tall ships and maritime parade:

  • Piet Heinkade & Java Island: Main festival village near Central Station.
  • Amsterdam-Noord & A’DAM Lookout: Epic panoramic views of the IJ River.
  • NDSM Wharf: Music stages, food trucks, and open-air vibes.
  • Oosterdok & KNSM-eiland: Perfect for early birds wanting an unobstructed view.
  • IJmuiden Locks: See the ships enter from the North Sea Canal — a must for maritime fans.
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Unique Ways to Enjoy SAIL

The Sail-In Experience

Find a less crowded viewing spot on the north side of the North Sea Canal, where locals park to enjoy the show. It’s worth exploring before choosing your perfect angle.

Rooftop Views

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Malabar Skybar (Hotel Jakarta): Panoramic IJ views with cocktails, no reservation, just arrive early.

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LuminAir (DoubleTree by Hilton): Elegant rooftop with 11th-floor vistas and a full view of the ships and fireworks.

Must-See Tall Ships

The fleet will be moored between Java Island and Piet Heinkade, close to Amsterdam Central Station. Check the official SAIL Amsterdam website for an updated list of participating ships and live tracking.

Music, Markets & Light Shows

SAIL on Stage (NDSM-werf): Live concerts and DJ sets (€40–€70).

Maritime Market: Crafts, nautical art, and workshops for all ages.

Family Zone: Kids’ Village, Ferris Wheel, and fun educational zones.

Waves of Light: Nightly fireworks shows lasting 750 seconds, celebrating Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary.

Accessibility & Comfort

The festival offers accessible zones like the Sit-Down Café near the Eye Film Museum, open daily with comfortable viewing options. Expect large crowds and cobblestone streets, so plan ahead.

FAQ

Is SAIL Amsterdam free?
Yes! Most waterfront shows are free, but cruises and some concert areas require tickets.

When is SAIL Amsterdam 2025 happening?
From August 20–24, 2025.

Where’s the best place to watch the SAIL Parade?
Java Island, Piet Heinkade, and the A’DAM Tower offer fantastic views.

Can I join a boat cruise during SAIL?
Absolutely — but book your cruise early, as spots sell out fast.

Tips to Make the Most of It

Plan ahead! Over 2 million visitors are expected! Bring snacks, arrive early, and download both the official SAIL app (Available for both iOS and Android.) and the OUTHERE app to explore every event happening across Amsterdam.

Discover More with Outhere

Outhere is your go-to platform for discovering art, culture, and entertainment worldwide. From free Amsterdam events to major festivals, we help you ditch the couch and experience life out there.

Want to keep the vibe going?
👉 See also:Things to Do in Amsterdam in August 2025
Explore more cultural festivals, concerts, and waterfront events happening across the city this month.