The excitement of the SAIL-Out Parade fills the air every five years in Amsterdam. Hundreds of ships—from majestic historic tall ships to sleek modern vessels—set sail together, creating a spectacular sight along the IJ River.

For us, it’s more than just a parade of ships; it’s a full festival experience with live music, street performances, and a vibrant celebration of maritime culture that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Timing and Opening Hours

The SAIL-Out Parade takes place over several days in summer, usually in early August.

- Parade start time: 10:00–12:00 AM (ships begin leaving the harbor)

- Viewing areas open: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

- Special exhibitions and museum ships: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Arriving early is recommended to secure the best viewing spots and avoid crowds. Early morning or late afternoon is also perfect for photography, with soft sunlight reflecting on the water.

Ticket Information

Watching the parade from most public waterfront areas is free, but some activities and zones require tickets:

- Museum ship tours: $15–$25 per visitor, $8–$12 per child (ages 4–12)

- Family passes: $40–$50 for 2 visitors + 2 children

- Parade boat tours: $50–$70 per person for a river-view experience

- Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at festival points near Central Station.

Transportation Options and Costs

Amsterdam is best explored with public transportation during the festival.

- Train: Arrive at Amsterdam Central Station, 10–15 min walk to IJ waterfront (cost ~$5–$7 from most local stations).

- Tram: Lines 26 or 28 stop close to the parade areas, ticket $3–$4 for a single ride.

- Ferry: Free ferries from Central Station to NDSM Wharf, offering excellent parade views.

- Bikes: Renting a bike costs about $12–$15/day, but parking is limited near prime spots.

Driving is not recommended due to heavy traffic and limited parking during the festival.

Accommodation Options

For overnight stays, booking early is essential. Recommended areas and prices:

- Central Station / Waterfront hotels: $150–$250/night (mid-range)

- Canal Belt boutique hotels: $180–$300/night, offers charming views and walking distance to parade zones

- Budget hostels / B&Bs: $60–$120/night, ideal for young travelers or families

Booking platforms or hotel websites allow early reservations, especially for festival years when rooms fill quickly.

Where to Watch the Parade

Some of the best spots to enjoy the SAIL-Out Parade:

- NDSM Wharf: Wide, panoramic views of the fleet, also accessible via free ferry

- Eastern Docklands (Oostelijk Havengebied): Up-close experience with ships passing by

- Central Station waterfront: Easy access to restaurants, transport, and nearby cafes

Bring binoculars for distant ship details, or a wide-angle lens for full fleet panoramas.

Dining Options and Pricing

Food and drinks are widely available along the waterfront:

- Snack stalls: Fries, Dutch pancakes, hot dogs, $6–$12 per item

- Casual restaurants: Sandwiches, salads, local dishes $12–$20

- Full meals: Fish or meat dishes at restaurants $20–$35

- Drinks: Water, soft drinks $2–$4, coffee $3–$5

Picnic options are great if we prefer to enjoy food while watching the parade. Many areas have public benches and picnic spots.

Tips for Families and First-Time Visitors

- Bring foldable chairs or a blanket for waterfront seating.

- Dress in layers—mornings can be cool near the water.

- Use sunscreen and hats for daytime visits.

- Check the official SAIL Amsterdam website for last-minute schedule updates.

- Consider parade boat tours ($50–$70) for a unique water perspective.

- Arrive early to avoid large crowds and secure photography spots.

Why We Love the Parade

The SAIL-Out Parade is more than a ship parade—it’s a celebration of history, culture, and community. We share the excitement with thousands of visitors, enjoy live music, and witness hundreds of ships sailing together. Every vessel has its story, and seeing them in motion along Amsterdam’s historic waterways makes us feel connected to both history and the present.

Join the Celebration!

Lykkers, whether we’re ship enthusiasts or simply looking for a memorable city experience, the SAIL-Out Parade is unforgettable. Plan your visit carefully, book your accommodation early, grab your camera, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and energy of one of the world’s largest maritime festivals. Together, we can make memories that last a lifetime!