The largest free public event in the world. Its inaugural edition took place in 1975 as part of celebrations marking Amsterdam’s 700th jubilee.
The event proved such a great success that a second edition was planned in 1980. In order to deliver solid direction, the SAIL Amsterdam Foundation was established in 1977. Ever since, SAIL has returned to Amsterdam’s waterways every five years to showcase the city’s maritime legacy.
SAIL Amsterdam 2015 takes place in and around Amsterdam’s IJ-haven from Wednesday 19 until Sunday 23 August 2015.
At the heart of this internationally renowned event is an immense flotilla of Tall Ships, maritime heritage, naval ships and impressive replicas. In addition to the vessels themselves, each day offers up a varied programme of cultural and sporting activities of broad public appeal.