More than 1,000 sailing ships from around the world will gather in Amsterdam Aug. 9-14 for a tall ships festival, the world`s largest, that takes place in the Dutch port every five years.
The event, named Sail Amsterdam, includes the arrival of tall ships after they have taken part in a race that starts in Plymouth, England, and goes via La Coruna, Spain; Bordeaux, France; and Zeebrugge, Belgium.
Visitors will be able to board these and other vessels in Amsterdam Harbor. Among other Sail Amsterdam events: demonstrations of ancient nautical maneuvers, concerts and fireworks.
Also on view: a flower parade, a showcase of nautical maneuvers, concerts, fireworks and a procession of anything and everything that floats. Travelers also will be able to participate in sailing events on a fleet of turn-of-the-century Dutch sailing vessels.
For information, contact Sail Amsterdam in Santa Monica, Calif., 800-438-7245 or the Netherlands Tourist Board in Chicago, 312-819-0300.
