Press Release - 30 young people set sail on the Clipper Stad Amsterdam world tour

Amsterdam, 19 October 2023 – One of the most iconic ships in the world, Clipper Stad Amsterdam, has embarked on a two-year voyage around the world. Today, the leg from Amsterdam to Porto started with, in addition to the regular crew, a special group of 30 young people on board.

The Stad Amsterdam world tour is all about equal opportunities, diversity and inclusion. And it's no coincidence that the ship departed from Amsterdam with these particular 30 young people on board. The voyage, supported by Van Lanschot Kempen, Randstad and the City of Amsterdam, among others, aims to show that everyone is able to contribute in their own unique way and everyone has talents that can make a difference. The young people each bring their own story, background, talents and the obstacles they face on board with them.

Rolf Schrama, former Paralympic sailor and currently Inclusion Coordinator at Van Lanschot Kempen: 'We want to prove that each talent counts. Dedication to inclusion and diversity goes hand in hand with our ambition to contribute to a sustainable and more inclusive world. During the voyage, young people with physical (occupational) disabilities, among other things, will have the opportunity to pursue their dreams and push their limits. By bringing together such a diverse group of young people and teaching them to work together as a team on board, we're raising awareness of everyone's limitations and skills. This is a life-changing experience.'

'We hope that this voyage is not only an unforgettable experience for those taking part, but that it also inspires others who dream of overcoming obstacles and developing their own unique talents.'

Andi Manser (Captain Clipper Stad Amsterdam): 'During the voyage, participants are not only going to learn new skills, but also create lasting memories and forge friendships that last a lifetime. Participants of these youth trips grow in self-confidence because they have challenged themselves, pushed their limits, and have each have played an indispensable role in the team. An experience that stays with them for the rest of their lives. It’s a truly inspiring initiative and I'm so grateful that we, as the crew on board the Clipper Stad Amsterdam, can be a part of it.'

Business opportunities

Aside from this ambitious youth program, the world tour also presents businesses the opportunity to host corporate events on board the ship, in iconic major cities such as Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Mumbai, Cape Town, New York and London. Adventurous travellers and fans of the Clipper can also join on board parts of the world tour for an unforgettable sailing holiday. The Clipper Stad Amsterdam will return to its home port in August 2025, during SAIL Amsterdam 2025, in honour of the city’s 750-year anniversary.?

For more information about the initiative and the possibilities for collaboration, please contact Reineke Boot, Project Manager World Tour Clipper Stad Amsterdam.?

Find out how to follow Clipper Stad Amsterdam on her journey

About Clipper Stad Amsterdam

The Clipper Stad Amsterdam has been sailing the seven seas since 2000. The ship offers unique sailing trips and has visited countless destinations the world over. It was originally set up as an employment project for young unemployed people and school-leavers, under the guidance of experienced professionals, to provide them with skills that would later give them a good start in the labour market. Since then, hundreds of young participants in the program have set sail on board the Clipper. Young people who meet for the first time, learn to sail the ship together and acquire important (soft) skills to help make a flying start on the job market.?

About Van Lanschot Kempen NV

Van Lanschot Kempen is an independent, specialised wealth manager that operates in private banking, investment management and investment banking. Our goal is to preserve and accrue wealth, in a sustainable way, both for our clients and the society we are part of. By focusing on the long term, we aim to help our clients navigate the inevitable transitions of our times and create positive financial and non-financial value. Van Lanschot Kempen, listed on Euronext Amsterdam, is the oldest independent financial institution in the Netherlands with a history dating back to 1737.?