Each year, the seaside town of Katwijk aan Zee transforms into a dynamic arena of rescue operations, aerial manoeuvres and public-engagement when the Katwijkse Reddingsbrigade stages its flagship event, SAR Katwijk. The 2025 edition—held on Saturday 5 July from 10:00 to 16:00—marked a triumphant return after the 2024 cancellation due to storm conditions.
The event featured a full-day programme across several zones:
On the Boulevard and the adjacent beach, audiences witnessed realistic incident simulations including a mock traffic collision and large-scale rescue involving fire, ambulance and police services.
Over the sea and shoreline, units from the Katwijkse Reddingsbrigade, KNRM lifeboats, police marine teams and historical rescue vessels coordinated sea-based scenarios such as an overturned vessel, drug-smuggling scenarios and search & rescue demonstrations.
The heliplatform on the South-Boulevard hosted landings and fly-bys of multiple helicopters and even a coast-guard aircraft from Kustwacht Nederland made a Fly-by
A large static show displayed equipment, vehicles and historic rescue craft along the Boulevard—giving visitors the chance to inspect gear up close and talk with crew members.
Visitors were treated to unique photo-ops with aircraft, vessels and rescue equipment.
The next SAR Katwijk will be Saturday 04th July 2026.
