In a stirring display of maritime heritage and sailing prowess, the Clipper Stad Amsterdam, a resplendent three-masted tall ship, has cast anchor at Hong Kong’s Central Pier 9. This visit marks a historic moment as the ship opens its decks to the public from June 28 to July 2, 2024, offering an immersive journey into the golden age of sail.

The Clipper Stad Amsterdam, a meticulous reconstruction of a mid-19th-century clipper ship, is 76 meters long. Its 31 billowing sails cover a vast 2,200 square meters, a testament to the grandeur of maritime engineering of the past. Managed under the Dutch flag, this vessel relives historical voyages and is a modern ambassador of ocean sustainability and nautical education.

This unique event, facilitated by the Hong Kong Maritime Museum, invites locals and tourists alike to explore the ship’s expansive decks and the long room, which offers a glimpse into life at sea during the age of discovery. The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to educate the public about marine conservation and promote maritime careers among the youth.

Explore the Clipper Stad Amsterdam in Hong Kong.

“Seeing the Clipper Stad Amsterdam is like stepping back in time. It’s a living museum, a bridge between the old and new worlds of navigation,” says Benjamin Elms, Managing Director at Randstad Hong Kong. He emphasizes that the Clipper’s journey is about revisiting history and inspiring a new generation towards sustainable maritime careers.

Before opening to the public, the Clipper hosts a series of private events in collaboration with Randstad and the Consulate General of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. These events underscore the shared commitment to workforce equity and the global development of fair employment practices. The Clipper’s presence in Hong Kong is part of a broader narrative that celebrates global cultural exchanges through the prism of maritime heritage.

The ship’s visit to Hong Kong is a key highlight of its two-year World Tour, which began in August 2023. The tour aims to foster a sense of global unity and the shared responsibility of preserving our oceans and maritime heritage. It also reflects the vision of Randstad’s founder, Frits Goldschmeding, who envisaged the Clipper as a catalyst for social change and education.

Visitors are encouraged to register online for a tour, with slots available on a first-come, first-served basis. Each tour can accommodate 30 participants, ensuring an intimate and informative experience. This initiative enriches Hong Kong’s cultural calendar and enhances its appeal as a premier destination for international tourists and maritime enthusiasts.

As the Clipper Stad Amsterdam prepares to set sail again, its brief sojourn in Hong Kong will leave an indelible mark on all who step aboard, echoing Randstad’s ethos of recognizing and nurturing talent in every individual. This historic visit celebrates the past and sails towards a future where history and modernity converge seamlessly in the pursuit of knowledge and sustainability.

Written by: Charmaine Lu

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