Harlingen was buzzing with people that day. No surprise—the Tall Ships’ Races had arrived, bringing with them a stunning armada of sailing school ships. The harbor was packed with visitors, cameras in hand, eyes fixed skyward. Masts reached into the sky, rigging creaked in the wind, and on deck, the crews were hard at work. A sail was being hoisted here, a rope pulled in there, while somewhere in the distance, a ship’s bell rang.

I let myself drift through the crowd, past stalls selling maritime souvenirs and food stands offering fish sandwiches and Frisian specialties. The water in the harbor shimmered, as small boats carefully weaved their way between the towering ships. It was a spectacle—one I couldn’t tear myself away from.

Does Harlingen have more to offer? Apparently, yes. Old warehouses, narrow alleys, a charming old town with little shops and cafés. But I didn’t see them. My time was spent among masts, sails, and the energy of the harbor.

But maybe that’s not such a bad thing. After all, it’s a good reason to come back someday.