About SAIL

SAIL Amsterdam is the largest event in the Netherlands which is free to the public. In 2010 the event drew 1.5 million visitors. SAIL Amsterdam 2010 took place from Thursday 19 August to Monday 23 August 2010 on and around the IJ river.

SAIL’s main attraction is always the impressive fleet of Tall Ships, sailing heritage craft, modern ships, naval ships and replicas. In addition to this, every day there is a varying programme of all kinds of cultural and sports activities. For an impression of SAIL 2010, click here.

The idea behind SAIL Amsterdam originated during preparations for the celebration of Amsterdam's 700 years of existence in 1975. After the huge success of SAIL Amsterdam 700, organisers decided to hold another SAIL Amsterdam in 1980. In order to effectively manage the organisation, the permanent SAIL Amsterdam Foundation (SSA) was established in 1977. Since then, the SSA has successfully organised SAIL Amsterdam in 1980, 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2005 and 2010.