SAIL 2025 is one of the world’s greatest maritime celebrations, and Amsterdam’s Hotel De L’Europe will provide front-row access to the renowned event. It will be the only hotel in the city to offer private onboard cruises during this landmark edition, which will be a celebration of 50 years of SAIL and 750 years of Amsterdam.
This August, sails will rise across the IJ River as hundreds of ships glide into Amsterdam’s historic waterways for the long-awaited return of SAIL – one of the world’s largest and most spectacular nautical events, where more than 800 ships from around the globe, from towering tall ships to sleek naval vessels, gather in procession.
Held just once every five years, the 2025 edition promises to be especially momentous, commemorating 50 years of SAIL and 750 years since the founding of the Dutch capital.
Photograph by Roel Vincken.
To honour the occasion, Hotel De L’Europe—the city’s grand dame hotel on the banks of the Amstel—has been officially designated a ‘Fan of SAIL’. It proudly stands as the only hotel in Amsterdam to offer guests exclusive, private boat access to the celebrations.
From 20-23 August 2025, guests enjoying the hotel’s new SAIL stay package will have the rare opportunity to observe the festivities from the water itself.
Photograph by Wim Haze.
Stepping aboard one of De L’Europe’s beautifully restored historic saloon boats, guests will enjoy a slow-sailing immersion through the city’s maritime heart. Curated dining experiences—from breakfast banquets on deck and leisurely lunches to decadent afternoon teas and sundowner canapés—will be designed to bring the elegance of the hotel to the open air of the deck.
Meanwhile, back on land, guests retreat to their suites—many offering sweeping views over the Amstel River—perfectly placed to soak up the atmosphere as Amsterdam comes alive.
With its central waterfront setting, storied past, and longstanding role in the city’s cultural life, De L’Europe offers a rare and privileged vantage point to experience this extraordinary, once-in-a-decade seafaring event.
HOW: SAIL 2025 packages are available exclusively via www.deleurope.com/sail2025 from 20-23 August 2025.
Rates start from £2,515 for a two-night B&B stay for two guests in a standard room, including a private boating experience. Optional add-ons such as lunch, afternoon tea, or evening drinks and bites are available at an additional cost.
Lead Image: Photogaph by Lisa Kunst.
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