The ship was designed by Gerard Dijkstra who modelled her after the mid-19th century frigate Amsterdam, but she is not a replica.

The owners call the ship a "modern extreme clipper in historical perspective", meaning that the construction method is a combination of the best qualities of clippers of the past, outfitted and built with modern techniques but with a classic "look and feel".

The building of the hull in 1997/98 was used as a work experience project for the unemployed (e.g. metalworking and welding).

In September 2009 Stad Amsterdam was refitted to accommodate a televised research expedition, tracing the second voyage of HMS Beagle (1831–1836).

The book was co-created by former quartermaster Bart Huijs, and the sculptor and photographer, Anthony Smith.