Sail Amsterdam
When we arrived in Holland we found out that Sail Amsterdam was in progress. What is it? Well, it is one of the largest maritime events in the world. It was started in 1975 in celebration of the 700th anniversary of the city of Amsterdam, and was so successful it was repeated every 5 years. So we were invited by family to take in the fun.
You could tell how busy it was when we got to the Utrecht train station. People everywhere, the train was standing room only. But a short 20 minute ride got us to Amsterdam. And then the crowds really started! Not only people, but we were amazed at the number of boats…. and the variety. everything from rowboats to 5 mast sailing vessels, and even a car!
The events takes place in Amsterdam, on the river IJ. It is a big river, and lots of room for moored boats. But the spectacular part was the continual parade of boats, with no seeming logic by what type or where. Each boat was on its own to go upriver, turn around, and come back down river.
Check the pictures….
Crowds at the station
Look at all those boats!
A real flotilla of boats on parade!
No boat? No problem… take your car.
Even had musical accompaniment, here a Dixieland band
Even a one man band!
Replica of a Spanish galeon, reminicent of Columbus
View of the bow. Don’t think I would cross the Atlantic in one that size!
Captain’s quarters
Bowsprit
Reefing the sails
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