Stad Amsterdam

Recently, Stad Amsterdam returned to her roots. The iconic clipper was at Damen Shiprepair Oranjewerf for a scheduled survey. At the same time, she also underwent renewal work that prepares her for the coming years.

The tall ship was constructed at the Oranjewerf yard between 1997 and 2000. Stad Amsterdam blends 19th century elegance and modern comfort, undertaking luxury cruises, corporate events, adventurous sailing trips and special voyages for youth. 

Birthday celebrations 

The vessel has had a busy year. In August, she again fulfilled her role as flagship at SAIL Amsterdam. Shortly after that, she celebrated her 25th birthday at the Scheepvaartmuseum (National Maritime Museum) in Amsterdam.

Stad Amsterdam Director Jacoba Bolderheij, who took up her position in June this year, says, “Our birthday party was both a celebration and reunion. Many old crew members returned to mark the event. They were really happy to find one another again. It was a truly heartwarming experience. It was also a really special occasion for newcomers; we always say ‘ when you start working on the Clipper Stad Amsterdam you are joining a family’ – this event made that tangible.” 

Coming home 

In early autumn, on 10th October, Stad Amsterdam crossed the IJ river and entered the dock at Damen Shiprepair Oranjewerf. In addition to a survey, cleaning and repainting, the vessel also underwent the renewal of her mid-deck section – the so called Longroom.

This represented a significant scope of work, requiring the stripping back of all furnishings to provide access to the ship’s bare hull. Stad Amsterdam brought in a team of specialists including carpenters and cabinet makers to refresh the largely wooden interior. The Oranjewerf team was on hand at all times to offer support and also provided the containers and workshop facilities required to perform the work.

Heart of the ship 

Great care has been taken to preserve the look and feel of the Longroom, which forms the heart of the ship. Via a mahogany staircase from the deck, guests descend into a luxurious dining space and bar, beautifully presented in wood and brass trim.

Jacoba explains Stad Amsterdam’s reasons for selecting Damen, saying, “The vessel was built at the yard, and Damen has also supported us with other projects, including a sustainability-enhancing refit in 2019. There is quite some historical knowledge here, and a strong pre-existing relationship.”

Right yard for the right ship 

Jeen van der Werf, Commercial Manager at Damen Shiprepair Oranjewerf adds, “I always say that it’s good to have the right vessel at the right yard, and in the case of Stad Amsterdam, this is certainly the case. The facilities are ideal for a vessel of her size. We were very happy to welcome Stad Amsterdam back to Oranjewerf.”

Renewed, Stad Amsterdam set sail again in early January. Following stops in the Canary Islands, she began an Atlantic crossing, heading first to the Caribbean and then the US.

Maritime inspiration 

“The maritime sector is very important for our society as it plays an important and crucial role in our economy,” says Jacoba. “It touches every aspect of our lives, from energy to transport and safety. It is therefore of huge importance that the sector attracts enough talent. I believe Stad Amsterdam has a role to play in this. People at the start of their career in the maritime sector, do not always have sailing experience – particularly those with a non-maritime background. I really believe we can be an inspiration for people entering the sector. As well as facilitating onboarding and training, we offer the opportunity to go on board and experience what it is to be confronted by wind, tides, and currents, preparing people for a successful maritime career. In the coming years, I would like to see us adding value to the industry in this way and helping to make a positive difference.”