Bremerhaven is expecting 1.2 million visitors to the spectacular Sail 2025!

Bremerhaven is expecting 1.2 million visitors to the spectacular Sail 2025!

The anticipation in Bremerhaven is great! After a ten-year break, the major shipping and windjammer festival, Sail, will take place from August 13th to 17th, 2025. Under the patronage of Federal President Steinmeier, the event will be launched with a spectacular entry parade on Wednesday, August 13th. Over 100 beautiful ships compete for the attention of the spectators. Steinmeier will accompany the parade on the proud sailing ship Gorch Fock, while more than 250 ships from 16 nations are expected in the port of Bremerhaven, including classics such as the "Alexander von Humboldt II" and the "Gorch Fock" as well as impressive new buildings and historical replicas such as the "Nao Santa Maria", Columbus's famous ship.

Like exciting historical tales on the water, the ships come from far-flung countries: Peru, Oman, Uruguay and Portugal are just a few of the countries that steer their magnificent sailing ships to Bremerhaven. Everything is included, from historic expedition ships to modern cruise ships and ocean liners. These include the oldest active sailing ship, the “Anna af Sand” from Norway, which is an impressive 171 years old. Unfortunately, the training ship from Veracruz, one of the largest in the Sail, will not be taking part after it had an accident in May.

A program for the whole family

The Sail offers a colorful program for all age groups. During the five days of the event, guests can look forward to an “Open Ship” from 12 p.m. every day, where they can view the ships and get in touch with the sailors. In addition, the entertainment program with live acts such as Ronan Keating, No Angels and Johannes Oerding ensures musical highlights and a festive atmosphere in the harbor. In an authentically recreated medieval-style privateering village, hands-on activities and handicrafts await visitors. If you feel particularly afraid of heights, you can marvel at the smallest Ferris wheel in the world.

For the adventurous souls, there are also exciting trips on the Weser with sailing ships and motorboats, while on Saturday, August 16th, an impressive laser show at 10:50 p.m. and a breathtaking fireworks display at 11 p.m. will crown the festival. And don't forget: The organizers are expecting around 1.2 million visitors who will transform the city into a colorful place of exchange and a sense of community.

Safety and inclusion come first

Safety measures are top priority. The fire department, technical relief agency and police ensure safety with concrete bollards, barriers and video cameras. In addition, the organizers have set up an awareness team. Recognizable by their purple vests, these teams support visitors and offer help with abusive behavior and discrimination, so that everyone can enjoy the Sail without worries. With costs of around three million euros, the aim is to generate sales of around 60 million euros, which positions the event as an important economic factor for the region. The state will cover 1.1 million euros of the costs.

A highlight for Bremerhaven: The Sail is considered one of the largest windjammer meetings in the world, which has taken place every few years since 1986. In 2020 the event was canceled due to the pandemic. Now everyone is looking forward to finally being able to experience ships, encounters and the fascination of sailing up close again.