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unique experience in Amsterdam on the water

Riverfront houseboat in Amsterdam with an outdoor pool

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2 bedrooms, in-room safe, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior detail
Smart TV, video library, stereo
Exterior detail
Smart TV, video library, stereo

Reviews

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional

Entire house boat

2 bedrooms1 bathroomSleeps 4807 sq ft

Popular amenities

  • Pool
  • Breakfast available
  • Outdoor space
  • Air conditioning
  • Free WiFi

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire house boat to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

unique experience in Amsterdam on the water

Riverfront houseboat in Amsterdam with an outdoor pool
An outdoor pool, a garden and a living plant wall are available at this smoke-free houseboat. Limited housekeeping is available.
Air-conditioned accommodation at this houseboat offers a safe and coffee/tea makers. Rooms open to balconies or patios. This accommodation offers separate dining areas and includes dining tables. Smart televisions come with satellite channels.

Bathrooms include a shower and hairdryers. Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access. Housekeeping is provided on a limited basis.

Recreational amenities at the houseboat include an outdoor pool.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on-site or nearby; fees may apply.

Property manager

Andrew

Languages

Dutch, English, German

Add dates for prices

Property amenities

Pool/Spa

  • Outdoor pool

Internet

  • Available in the accommodation: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Electric kettle
  • Refrigerator

Dining

  • Breakfast available for a fee
  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • 1 bathroom
  • Hair dryer
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Smart TV with cable/satellite channels
  • Stereo
  • Video library

Outdoor areas

  • Balcony
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property
  • Note from host: outside on the terrace/balcony only

Services and conveniences

  • Housekeeping (limited availability)
  • Safe

Location highlights

  • In the city centre
  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near the marina
  • On a river
  • On the waterfront

Things to do

  • Bicycles
  • Basketball nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Ecotours nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • 100% renewable energy
  • Annual offsets purchased for at least 10% of carbon footprint
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Bicycles
  • Bulk dispensers for toiletries
  • Comprehensive recycling policy
  • Double-glazed windows
  • Eco-friendly cleaning products used
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Garden
  • Living plant wall
  • Solar energy
  • Unit size: 807 square feet
  • Water-efficient showers
  • Wind energy

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Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:30 AM
Contactless check-out

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

Pets not allowed
Note from host: no pets allowed at AMSTEL HouseBoats

Children and extra beds

Children are welcome
Note from host: feel free to come with your family

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Note from host: after 23:00 is quiet time
This property uses wind and solar energy, plus eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Property Registration Number Z/17/358651

Property is also known as

Vrbo Property
Unique Experience in Amsterdam on the Water Houseboat
Unique Experience in Amsterdam on the Water Amsterdam
Unique Experience in Amsterdam on the Water Houseboat Amsterdam

About the area

Map
Amsterdam, NH

What's nearby

  • Rembrandt Square - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • Heineken Experience - 15 min walk - 1.3 km
  • Rijksmuseum - 17 min walk - 1.5 km
  • Dam Square - 4 min drive - 1.9 km
  • Van Gogh Museum - 5 min drive - 2.0 km

Getting around

  • Amsterdam Amstel Station - 3 min drive
  • Weesperplein Station - 3 min walk
  • Schiphol Airport (AMS) - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bakhuys - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Bar Lempicka - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Café Restaurant De Ysbreeker - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Yusu - ‬4 min walk
  • ‪Bistro Baret - ‬6 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Does unique experience in Amsterdam on the water have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

Is unique experience in Amsterdam on the water pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at unique experience in Amsterdam on the water?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at unique experience in Amsterdam on the water?

Checkout is at 10:30 AM.

Where is unique experience in Amsterdam on the water located?

Located in Canal Ring, this houseboat is within a 15-minute walk of Royal Theater Carre, ARTIS and Heineken Experience. Van Gogh Museum and Rembrandt Square are also within 1 mile (2 km). Weesperplein Station is only a 3-minute walk and Wibautstraat Stop is 6 minutes.

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unique experience in Amsterdam on the water Reviews

Reviews

9.4

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 40 out of 50 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 6 out of 50 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 50 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 50 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 50 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Chris R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique

Great location for us. It is just on the outskirts of the center which was good for us. If you want to be in the heart of it all then this is not the best spot for you. We loved the deck in the evening having a coffee or beer watching the boats go buy.The steps up and down could be tricky for old or young folks.Would certainly stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ginger F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect Amsterdam stay

Idyllic houseboat property near city center. The outdoor space at this houseboat is to die for. Everything was very comfortable and clean, including the bathroom and shower. The bed in the living room is a Murphy bed and very comfortable. The master bedroom is gorgeous. We were able to screencast our Netflix/HBO onto the Samsung TVs.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

8/10 Good

Jonathan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Memorable stay on a houseboat in Amsterdam

Our stay on the houseboat was a really enjoyable and unique experience! The boat itself was surprisingly comfortable, with ample space for our group. We particularly loved the novelty of living on the water. Despite being located near a major street, it was remarkably quiet and peaceful, which was a pleasant surprise. The location was also very convenient, offering easy access to local attractions. We're giving it 4 stars because while everything was great, there was room for a little more polish in terms of some minor amenities. Overall, a fantastic and memorable stay!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dave M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic Experience!

My wife and I truly enjoyed what was, for us, a first-ever experience of living aboard a houseboat. Like any new experience, we needed a bit of time to understand how everything worked. In short, we couldn't have asked for a better vacation and we appreciated Andrew's support and thoughtful suggestions and information when we asked for his local insights.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kalpana H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family Fall break

This is a gorgeous property. It is so close to the Amstel Inn. 20 min walk to the Rijksmusem and Van Gogh Museum . Plenty of space for 2 adults and teen kids
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

linda w.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful Houseboat

My friend and I truly enjoyed this unique accommodation on the houseboat. We had easy access to public transportation and the houseboat was tremendous. The Host was very responsive and we highly recommend staying here.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rob R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Brilliant

The house on the canal is five stars all around. Excellent location includes local ducks. Host was gracious and attentive with outstanding communication. A fantastic stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

David T., Snowmass Village, Colorado

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice

Spacious easy to access metro
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022

10/10 Excellent

E B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Once in a lifetime experience

Where else can you stay in a houseboat in the middle of the city? It is definitely a fun adventure. A few things to know: if you or anyone in your group has mobility issues this place is not for you. Steep stairs. Also you are in the city. It isn’t quiet. The hosts kindly leave earplugs but we sleep with white noise so not an issue for us. The kitchen is more of a Kitchenette. Great storage for clothing given it’s a houseboat. Management was quick to respond to questions.
Stayed 14 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lili L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very responsive to any questions

Easy access the both the metro and trams. There is a delight coffee shop/bakery a short stroll from the houseboat. There is a Lidl grocery store also near to the location. Because it was close to the train and tram we were able to get to any location easily.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amsterdam Houseboat

A very unique experience. The houseboat was comfortable and didn’t lack for any amenities. The location was perfect. Excellent restaurants less than 10 minute walk Museums and markets an easy 30 minute walk or a few minutes by Uber. Highly recommend this property.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Experience Amsterdam on a House Boat

House boat was incredible experience in Amsterdam. The location was excellent we were able to walk (within 30 Minutes) to all the museums, canal tours etc. The houseboat had plenty of room for us, and a nice coffee maker, which I really appreciated it. I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants the Amsterdam experience.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Lucas P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Nice and Unique Place to Stay

The houseboat was great. I had questions beforehand, and the owner responded to them promptly. The second bedroom is definitely a bit small for another adult but the master is perfect. Located close enough to a few metro stations that I was about to get around quickly. I would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Carole A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A Charming Canal Stay

We absolutely loved this wonderful boat! Not only we’re we able to enjoy the lovely canals of Amsterdam but we became a part of canal life! We had one issue (our fault) and it was addressed right away. The boat is strategically located to attractions and restaurants. We loved the city and we loved the boat!!!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Vanessa Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Stay here!

We LOVED our stay on the houseboat. We were able to drop bags off a little earlier than our scheduled check in. Unfortunately, the cleaning crew was still cleaning when we returned at our check in time. The location was easy and accessible to busses and trains. This was our favorite VRBO while in Europe!!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Chris G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amsterdam family vacation

The houseboat was a perfect place to stay in Amsterdam. Very close to public transportation, so you can get anywhere in the city quickly and easily. The property reflected the charm of the city and was larger than we expected. The design made excellent use of the space. There was a small deck in the front, back and even on the side. We would highly recommend.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kirstin J.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Good find on the canal

This houseboat is located 1/2 a block from the metro station, so getting to Amsterdam Central is a short trip. There is a grocery store three blocks south. The rental bikes are located across the bridge, a short five minute walk. We rented them for the stay and it was really enjoyable to bike around the city, especially through Vodelpark! We tried the hot tub boat - a unique experience but it did take two hours to heat the water by wood fire, and given that it was early April it was chilly. There are several cafes for eating close by, but we mostly ate throughout this amazing city. The owner/manager was great with communication and it was easy to locate and get in/out. The steep steps down to the boat would be a challenge for people who cannot easily walk/climb stairs. The houseboat was clean and as described, and you very much need a smart phone to access the property as there are many smart features. The toilet is also a bidet which decreases waste. It was lovely to rest on the dock after a long day, enjoying the evening sunset.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

2/10 Terrible

stuart t.

Disliked: Communication, location, listing accuracy

Beware

Boat is moored beside a busy 4 lane road not good for a peaceful night’s sleep Host requested another 75€ per night to unlock the second bedroom Some lights not working and all kitchen cupboards were locked so no cooking !!!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023

6/10 Okay

Mary S.

Liked: Cleanliness, location
Disliked: Listing accuracy

Nice Houseboat with Caution

The houseboat is lovely in a nice location. The main problem was the climate control. The owner controlled the climate and air conditioning remotely. There was no AC until 7 pm when it suddenly becomes so freezing it was hard to sleep. The AC is blasting until 7 AM. The nights were very uncomfortable. Had a real negative impact on our stay. We would not stay here again.
Stayed 5 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Bill H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic experience ... fun and cool

We had a fantastic experience staying on the houseboat. It had everything we needed. When we had a small issue with a hair blower that had issues, Andrew was quick to get us a new one. We loved all the room. It was on a canal with little tour boats but more small boats people rented to tour the city so the traffic going by was fun as everyone waved. We enjoyed the small cafe 100 feet down for evening wine. Only one night did we hear some thumping from the late night music there. Andrew has a great summary of the area and we tried 4 of the cafes/restaurants recommended and they were awesome. The only thing I didn't realize from the pictures is that the boat is on a busy road. I was nervous about once realized but the boat sits down below and the morning and evening business commute noise not too bad. We loved the location ... just on the edge of the main tourist areas and less than two blocks to a Metro station to get around or 10 minutes down to the Central train station. Thank you, Andrew, for making one of the stops on our Europe trip truly unforgettable.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

grace d.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Canal boat experience

Booked this for a weekend as husband going to a conference. Tired of staying in expensive hotels we thought we would try a houseboat. The photos on the website were probably quite old as the property was tired: dirty grouting in the bathroom and tired looking sofa. It would be so much better if there were not wires crisscrossing lights etc everywhere. It is also next to a main road and a popular bar which were not mentioned. Having said that the novelty of staying in a boathouse beats overpriced hotels. The shower works and the bed was comfortable. Watching the world go by and feeding the moorhens from the outside platform was great. The boat was well sound proof so the noise from the bar didn’t disturb us much. All in all a good experience and would recommend - given the reasonable rate.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

6/10 Okay

Patricia and Timothy S.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, communication

Not as pleasant as we had hoped for

We wanted to experience staying on s house boat but will never do it again. It took us over an hour getting into the house with their Nukki app & no one responded to our calls for help. During the entire 3 day stay, we were unable to contact anyone. All the stairs were extremely steep so that for foot to stay on step, you had to walk sideways. The inside was clean enough but the outside decks were extremely dirty & unkept…dead unattended foliage, broken glass & duck droppings all over. Also, the outdoor furniture were dirty & had standing water in seats
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

George Jean S., Sonoma, California, United States

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amsterdam on Little Amstel Houseboat

The houseboat is much larger than it appears in the pictures - especially the living room/kitchen and bathroom. There are outside patios in the front and back and each end. Views from every window were like a living picture. The location is very secure with a coded gate and digital key for the door. They provided a comprehensive laminated guide to everything you could think of (and some you didn't) you might need and super helpful information. There were 2 Nespresso machines and 2 electric kettles which was great for 4 adults. The beds were super comfortable too! There are tv's in the living room and the master bedroom - which was great to catch up on world news in the morning. Location is beautiful, across little Amstel from the Amstel Hotel/Intercontinental but does get a bit of road noise but nothing that keeps you up. It is located walking distance from many Amsterdam highlights and within a block of most metro stops. Recommend this location for a change of pace and to "live" in Amsterdam while you are visiting. Enjoy!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Kara R., Orlando FL

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Awesome stay in Amsterdam!

This location is a truly unique & a wonderful way to stay in Amsterdam. We highly recommend. The location is perfect—a very short walk from a Metro/Tram with easy access to all points of interest in Amsterdam. The canal on which the houseboat is located is perfect - it is relatively narrow, so most of the boats that pass are smaller boats. The outdoor spaces are great, especially the floating patio, where we spent hours enjoying the summer evenings. The house has AC that came on at night when the temperature outside warranted (it’s controlled by the hosts and cannot be turned on manually). The host was extremely responsive & provided many useful restaurant & shopping recommendations, a few of which we tried & loved. The stairs from the street level to the houseboat may be a bit steep for guests with mobility issues, but there are only 6 or 7 total steps from street level to the front door of the houseboat, and we had no problem lifting pretty heavy bags up & down them. On noise, we were not surprised to have noise from the nearby bar/restaurant and from passing cars/boats, but it was not bothersome. Guests should be prepared for such noise, especially if the AC is not on and the windows need to be left open while sleeping. Overall, we were overjoyed with our stay-this is a unique way to experience Amsterdam, and we’ll never forget it. If we ever come to Amsterdam again, we’ll schedule the trip around staying here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Deniz D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025