Spectators crowd into Amsterdam

Crowds of spectators have been pouring into Amsterdam to view the hundreds of vessels taking part in Sail Amsterdam 2010. The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta fleet form part of attraction but also in Amsterdam are many different types of vessels including traditional Dutch flat bottomed sailing boats, steam boats, barges and yachts, amongst others. 

The crews that took part in the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta will be joined by crews of other Tall Ships at 1500 hrs this afternoon to form a crew parade through the streets of Amsterdam. The parade will take the crews along the quayside and on down Zeedijk in the old part of the city to Nieuwmarkt.

At Nieuwmarkt, the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta prizegiving will take place followed by the crew party in the same location.

The crews have been talking excitedly about the spectacular sail in that took place yesterday. The sheer number of vessels joining the fleet was an experience in itself. Many had been dressed for the occasion with flowers, flags and banners everywhere.  

A number of activities have organised for the crews in Amsterdam, including soccer, beach volleyball, table tennis, golf, basketball, beach soccer and chess. The crew centre includes a cafe where the crews can relax and sit and view the vessels in Amsterdam harbour. 

Final results of the North Sea Tall Ships Regatta and day to day placings

To see more images from this and other Tall Ships events, click here.

The North Sea Tall Ships Regatta is organised by Sail Training International.