Since its first edition in 1975, SAIL Amsterdam has grown to become the largest public event in the Netherlands and the largest free nautical event in the world.

Every five years, in excess of 600 ships navigate along the North Sea Canal before mooring in and around the IJhaven in Amsterdam.

The ninth edition of SAIL Amsterdam takes place from August 19 to 23. 

SAIL Amsterdam 2015 offers a broad program, catering to both young and old and is the ultimate showcase of Amsterdam’s maritime legacy.

The Sail-in parade will be eight kilometres long, and includes fifty tall ships, and the biggest one in the harbor will be from Windstar.

The organization expects around 2 million visitors at the event.

Those eager to have a look at the tall ships can head to ‘Orange Ocean’, the spot where they’ll be moored along the IJ. The ships will be joined by a full program of live music at the nearby SAIL Music Marina and a nightly fireworks display.

The Wind Surf will be moored in the center of the river IJ. She will arrive on August 19 and passengers can witness the Sail in parade. The ship will leave on August 20. Other cruise ships during Sail include turnarouds of Celebrity Silhouette and Costa Fortuna, and an overnight call from Azamara Quest. Ships will be at AMT and VCK quays.