Thanks to I Amsterdam and and Amsterdam Book Now for hosting us on our beautiful houseboat on the Amstel River! As always, all opinions are our own.
One of many interesting aspects of Amsterdam that we noticed upon arriving were the colorful houseboats lining the canals – there are about 2,400 of these semi-seafaring gems docked along the walls of the city.
We were overjoyed to have the opportunity to stay on one of them during our visit.
Our hostess, the affable Myra, explained that boats have been used to ferry goods throughout the canals since Amsterdam’s conception, but it wasn’t until the 1960s and 70s that utilizing boats exclusively for a residence really caught on.
“It was a bit freer back then, more of a hippy culture. People just brought their boats into the city and lived, sometimes communally, on them – often simply bathing in the canals. These days, the city has gotten involved and it is more regulated.”
This regulation means a limit to the amount of boats in the canals, and the houseboats are charged by the meter for docking space.
The upside is that for these fees, Amsterdam houseboat owners have access to city water and sewage – and a place to have mail delivered.
As the lifestyle became trendy, money followed, and soon the “WaterYuppies” moved in, though Myra takes issue with the nickname.
“Most of the people living on the houseboats still appreciate the freer, more bohemian lifestyle. Many of my friends are artist and entrepreneurs – and enjoy working on their vessels themselves. There is quite a bit of work to do on a daily basis when living on a steel ship.”
This is evident in the way Myra lives herself.
She resides in the front part of her 28-meter, circa 1910 historic tjalk (a cargo ship traditionally used on the canals) while renting out the aft as a bed and breakfast.
Since purchasing her tjalk, she has renovated and beautifully redesigned the entire interior herself.
Sitting out on our private aft deck, we had breathtaking views of Amsterdam. Flanked on one side by the Opera House…
…and on the other the famous Skinny Bridge, named — not for its present width — but for the original bridge built in 1691 by two sisters who lived on opposite sides of the river.
Wanting to visit each other, but not having the means to build a proper bridge, it was said to be too skinny for people to pass one another while crossing.
And lit up at night, it’s one of the most romantic spots in the world.
The houseboat served us well during our short stay. If you are in the city for longer and want to check other accommodation options, go to HousingAnywhere.com!
David & Veronica, GypsyNester.com
Delve Deeper:
See how YOU can stay on a houseboat in Amsterdam!
Find out how to book Myra’s boat
Thanks to I Amsterdam and and Amsterdam Book Now for hosting us on our beautiful houseboat on the Amstel River! As always, all opinions are our own.
Excellent explanation, it’s simple & focus. Keep up the great work!
I am looking for an affordable vacation for myself. I am recently widowed and I must start to do things on my own. My kids all still have to work so one of them going with me is not practical. Would you suggest Amsterdam for a single over 65 lady? How safe is it? I understand the drug scene is extensive but what about the open prostitution?
Hi Maddy. Like most large European cities, Amsterdam is not cheap. It is very safe though. Not sure it would be our first recommendation for a solo traveler. Perhaps a better way to see Europe is on a river cruise. They are a fantastic way to travel and see several cities on one trip. No packing and unpacking and the rivers run right through the center of so many great cities. We are actually leaving for one in a few days so you can follow along with us here on the website and our social media. This one is on a canal in southern France and is not terribly expensive compared to some others we have taken. The boat looks incredible too. It is more of a private boat than a cruise ship, with only a few people on board. We will be posting our first story about it tomorrow.
If your artciles are always this helpful, “I’ll be back.”
Were any meals provided? If so, what foods were offered? Love your travel tales!
No meals, but it had a full kitchen. Loved it!
What an adventure!! I always love reading about what you are up to!!
Thanks Marilyn!
I’ve always wanted to stay aboard a canal boat in Amsterdam, or even just board one! Thanks for taking me along with you. Did you see the cat boat while you were there, where they adopt out kitties?
It was great fun, but we didn’t see the kitties.
This looks like an amazing place to stay with lovely views outside and comfort inside. Staying on a houseboat would be a unique way to view the city and I’d love to see all the styles of boats. And then (icing on the cake) there’s Amsterdam awaiting too!
… and what a great cake! 🙂
I love the idea of staying on a canal boat in Amsterdam. Myra’s boat looks like a beauty! What a stunning view from the porthole and at night.
It was great!
That looks and sounds fabulous! I haven’t been to Amsterdam in years and my sister has never been there but we both love anything having to with boats so I see this in our future!
You’ll be glad you did, it’s a great way to feel connected to the city.
Sounds like a unique and wonderful experience! We are taking a river cruise that departs and returns to Amsterdam so I’ll be reading many of your posts.
Thanks Irene, have fun!
We stayed in one when we were there, definitely not as luxurious as this. It was docked near the library and a bit more open water. I took dramamine every day for that whole week haha. good times.
This one was very stable. Barely ever felt it move.
If and when I return to Amsterdam, I would very much like to stay on a houseboat. Looks charming and incomparable views out of the window.
I love the idea of staying on a houseboat in Amersterdam. So cool! I enjoyed the history and look inside the houseboats.
Having lived aboard a small sailboat in Seattle this looks very spacious and nice. Amsterdam is still on my list so I’d consider this kind of stay.
It did have a lot of room for a boat.
How fun! We were in Amsterdam just one year ago for the first time – we loved it! We stayed at the Andaz Prinsengracht and we were curious about those boats! I am envious, have fun! (Of course you will!)
We did Suzanne, we did!
That looks wonderful! I’ve heard good things, but these pictures are inspiring! If I make it back there, I’ll have to do this too…
It was Stacey. It’s a great way to get a feel for the city.