Participating ships in Sail Amsterdam 2025
Know what you are going to see
Every five years, Amsterdam turns into a floating festival as ships from around the world sail in for Sail Amsterdam.
The 2025 edition, happening from 20 to 24 August, will feature 25 spectacular ships across categories like tall ships, naval vessels, replicas, and business cruises.
From three-masted barques to medieval cog ships, the event brings together a rare fleet that you won’t see anywhere else.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about these participating ships, where to find them, and how to make the most of your visit.
What types of ships participate, and why you should care
For first-time visitors, it can be overwhelming to figure out what these ships are and why they matter.
The Sail Amsterdam fleet includes:
- Tall Ships – The stars of the event. Think grand masts, huge sails, and historical flair.
- Marine/Navy Ships – Showcasing modern maritime power from different countries.
- Replica Ships – Historically accurate recreations of ships from centuries past.
- Business & Cruise Ships – Available for ticketed cruises, dinners, and special events.
- Heritage Vessels & Yachts – Often from the Netherlands, with beautiful craftsmanship.
Each category offers a different experience. Some let you board, others offer cruise options or guided tours.
Don’t assume every ship is open to the public; some are just for viewing, and popular ones can get extremely crowded.
👉 To get the full picture of where to find these ships and the best ways to explore them, check out the detailed Route and Location guide for Sail Amsterdam 2025.
Top tall ships to watch out for in 2025
Tall ships are the highlight of Sail Amsterdam. Here are some of the most iconic ones you’ll find this year:
| Ship Name | Type | Notable Feature |
| Amerigo Vespucci (TBC) | Tall Ship | Most beautiful training ship |
| Gorch Fock | Three-masted barque | German naval training ship |
| Shabab Oman II | Full-rigged ship | Elegant modern design |
| B.A.P. Unión | Barque | One of the largest sailing vessels |
| Christian Radich | Three-mast fullship | Regular in European events |
| Eye of the Wind | Brig | Romantic sails, vintage style |
| Clipper Stad Amsterdam | Three-mast fullship | Offers cruises and tours |
| Belem | Three-masted barque | Over 120 years old |
| Alexander von Humboldt II | Three-masted barque | Bright green sails |
| Tarangini (TBC) | Tall Ship | Rare Indian training ship |
Must-see Dutch ships you might overlook
Amid the international buzz, don’t miss the homegrown Dutch vessels. These are often deeply tied to the country’s seafaring heritage:
- Kamper Kogge – A medieval-style cog ship that reflects the Hanseatic trade era.
- Eendracht – A three-masted schooner built for youth training programs.
- Clipper Stad Amsterdam – Blends modern technology with 19th-century looks.
- Loth Lorien – Offers day cruises and is great for a relaxing experience.
- Pedro Doncker – A barquentine perfect for business events and private cruises.
These ships are often docked near Java-eiland and are easier to access compared to globally popular ones.
Military ships and global navy representation
If you’re into naval history or want to show the kids some real-world maritime tech, the Marine Ships category is a must-see.
- ARM Cuauhtémoc (Mexico) – A full-rigged Mexican Navy ship open for public tours.
- Zr. Ms. Urania (Netherlands) – The Royal Netherlands Navy’s sail training vessel.
- Other unnamed Navy ships will join, often offering insights into modern navigation, defense, and even life on long missions.
Pro tip: These ships often have long queues and limited hours. Plan your visit during weekday mornings to avoid wait times.
If you want to enjoy the event from the water, consider booking a Saloon Boat ticket, which offers a comfortable ride and great views of the naval fleet and other ships.
Replica ships that bring history to life
Ships like the Nao Santa Maria, Nao Victoria, El Galeón, and Vera Cruz are faithful recreations of legendary explorers’ vessels. These are perfect for families, history lovers, and anyone curious about how sailors crossed oceans centuries ago.
- You can walk inside their cabins, see the tools they used, and get a feel for the cramped, rugged conditions of early exploration.
- Most replicas are docked along the Eastern Docklands. Look for themed events and a costumed crew.
Where to see these ships and how to plan your walk
You can see the participating ships at key locations like Java-eiland, NDSM Wharf, and the Eastern Docklands.
Java-eiland is the most popular spot, especially for tall ships, while NDSM has a more industrial vibe with larger modern vessels.
Replica and heritage ships often dock at the Eastern Docklands.
Start early, wear comfortable shoes, and use the Sail Amsterdam 2025 app (IOS or Android) to track ship positions and events.
For easier access, families and seniors may prefer Java-eiland, which is more walkable and centrally connected.
For tips on navigating the event smoothly and making the most of your day, check out our complete Tips for Sail Amsterdam 2025.
Booking ship tours and themed cruises
Many of the participating ships offer immersive experiences such as guided deck tours, themed harbor cruises, sunset or dinner sails, and fun workshops for kids.
These activities are popular and tend to sell out quickly, especially on weekends.
Tips to avoid missing out:
- Book your ship experience at least a week in advance.
- Choose combo tickets that include ship access and special events like fireworks or parades.
- If you haven’t pre-booked, start with a walking tour and look for ships with shorter queues for on-the-spot entry.
Don’t miss the Evening Cruise with Fireworks ticket for a magical night on the water, combining spectacular views with the festival’s highlight fireworks display.
Image Courtesy: Barkeuropa.com
