The Sail2010 event is over, today they leave during the Sail-out which starts in an hour. I don’t think many people will be watching, it’s raining cats and dogs. Only 1,5 million people went to see the ships, a downfall of a million from 5 years ago. My sister and BiL made these photos from their sailing boat. I was not invited, maybe they know I don’t like small floating vessels.
There will be a short interlude now, till Friday, when the Uitmarkt starts. The Uitmarkt is the national opening of the cultural season and the largest cultural festival in the Netherlands. Over the years, the Uitmarkt has evolved into a festival attracting 500,000 visitors and featuring 2,000 performers at more than 30 venues. And it’s all free!
Tall ships next to the Passengers Terminal, normally cruise ships dock here.
Part of the Jan Schaeffer bridge are take down, otherwise the tall ships couldn’t dock in the old harbour.
Old harbour with old warehouses and new housing.
Again the Jan Schaeffer bridge, which is cut in three pieces, one way in the other way out.
The Frigate SHTANDART
I can see land!!!
But work goes on too.
Full steam ahead if you don’t want to be crushed by the ferry.
The blond guy in the teal polo is HRH Prince Willem Alexander with family and friends, on Royal yacht De Groene Draeck [the Green Dragon].
On their way home passing the village of Durgerdam along the IJssel Lake shore, not far from Amsterdam.
Enjoying his trip, this old sea dog, aka Julius.
Magnificent pictures! As I noted before I love the romance of tall ships (but I’m sure that sailing them is no picnic). Of course the picture of Julius just made my day!
Thanks for all the great photos and commentary, it really makes me wish I could be there. And that last pic of Julius is just too cute.
I really need to visit you one day. It looks simply beautiful! Maybe on Queen’s Day?
Your Friend, m.