Sail 2010 will take place in Amsterdam harbour between August 19th and 23rd 2010. This spectacular sailing event (one of the biggest in the world) only takes place every 5 years – tall ships from all over the world are on showcase as well as many other classic ships, replicas and naval vessels.

Hundreds of private boats also sail into the harbour to join the fun. A host of cultural events and concerts will be going on around the harbour.

There will be a tall ship race from Hartlepool (UK) to Ijmuiden (near
Amsterdam) between August 10th and 18th. Then August 19th sees the arrival of the main sail fleet along the North Sea canal into Amsterdam harbour. Tall ships from UK, Russia, Poland, Scandinavia, Germany, Italy and others are due to arrive.

Sail 2010 is freely open to visitors – the tall ships will be on display around the Ijhaven on the waterfront Amsterdam side (just east of central station) and on Java Island. The main walking route coincides closely to our self guided walk to Java island (except that you would stick to the waterfront edge). Note that Sail Amsterdam attracts large crowds so get there early in the day.

Amsterdam North will also have a  tall-ship display – you can jump on one of the  free GVB ferries from behind the station that shuttle between both sides.

Food and market stalls will be at various places.

Things to do/see: Tours of the tall ships will be possible; sailing races will take place on the Ij; sailing lessons for kids; musical and dance events; exhibitions.

A firework display on the water will be held every evening.

The best place without doubt to stay in Amsterdam for Sail 2010 is the modern and classy Movenpick hotel which sits right on the waterfront and has stunning views of the harbour – book early as it is certain to sell out.

For other hotels convenient for Sail 2010 click here.

Update – Photos from Friday August 20th: