When the impressive traditional sailing ships arrive in Wilhelmshaven at the end of September, the port city transforms into a maritime festival full of emotion. The Wilhelmshaven Sailing CUP (September 26–28, 2025) is the oldest traditional sailing regatta on the German North Sea coast and has become a real crowd-puller in recent years. Every year, the event draws thousands of visitors to the Great Harbor, who are captivated by the unique combination of sport, history, and maritime joie de vivre.

The program begins on Friday morning with “Boarding Next Generation.” Schoolchildren, students, and trainees have the chance to experience sailing life up close and sail on the traditional ships. The highlight follows on Saturday: the traditional sailing ships’ regatta. Numerous ships compete against each other in an exciting race on the North Sea, while spectators on land can watch the spectacle. On Sunday, things are a little quieter, but no less interesting: The sailors open their ships to visitors, and free ship tours offer rare insights into life on board.

Around the Bontekai, the maritime flair is perfectly complemented: A colorful quayside market with regional specialties, handicrafts, and culinary delicacies invites you to stroll and sample the goods. A varied music program with live bands ensures a great atmosphere. The grand entry parade of the sailors, when the traditional ships return to the harbor after the regatta, is particularly popular – a goosebump-inducing moment for all visitors.

For those who want to celebrate in the evening, don’t miss the legendary Sailors’ Party at the Pumpwerk. There, dancing and partying takes place until the early hours – a perfect end to an eventful day on the water.

The best part: Admission to the entire festival is free. This makes the Sailing CUP an absolute must not only for sailing fans, but also for families, vacationers, and all visitors to Wilhelmshaven.

👉 If you want to experience this maritime spectacle up close, our vacation apartments in Wilhelmshaven are the ideal accommodation. Perfect for anyone looking for a maritime and authentic experience of Wilhelmshaven.

Here is the official website for more infomation: https://www.wilhelmshaven-sailing-cup.de/