Water Home

A family-owned Dutch canal boat (sleeps 2-6) offering funky, well-priced canalside accommodation in the Oud West residential quarter

Moored in a tranquil residential neighbourhood 10 minutes' walk from the heart of old Amsterdam, this beautiful canal boat is both a comfy base for a city break and a novel insight into Dutch canalside living.

Inside it feels original, fresh and surprisingly spacious, with splashes of warm, bright colour and quirky artistic touches, such as the distinctive wave in the roof and the upright piano. It is a calm, relaxing, homely space, a retreat after a busy day sightseeing. The waterside deck, surrounded by a soft green plant screen, is perfect for breakfast, reading, bird-spotting or for lounging on a warm summer’s evening with a bottle of wine and candles.

With one private double bedroom, one double bed in the main living area and a sofa bed for two, the living quarters would be great for a couple, cosy for four or five close friends, and ideal for families with older children.

Highs

• A unique and fun place to stay in northern Europe's capital of canals
• Tranquil setting among tourist-free waterways and tree-lined streets
• Flexible accommodation for one or two couples or a family
• Self-catering made easy: the kitchen comes ready stocked for breakfast, and towels are changed daily
• Warm welcome and helpful advice (including city map) from the owners who live nearby
• Ideal from May to September, when the flower-fringed outside deck doubles your living space

Lows

• All three beds are double (no twins), and two of them not very private
• Limited storage aside from the main bedroom
• Not ideal for younger children, with buggy-defeating steps and adjacent canal (though the deck itself is enclosed)
• Big modern block behind the boat
• Mosquitos can be a problem in summer
• 3 night minimum stay at all times
• No smoking inside the canal boat
• Not for those looking to stay in the heart of the action