Hip Houseboat

An Unexpected Gem in Amsterdam

This vacation home rental in Amsterdam is truly unexpected. For starters, it's unlike any houseboat we've ever come across. A former passenger vessel, it's actually made up of two apartments - one lived in by the owners, and the other available for rent. So, technically, it's an apartment-boat. 

Moored in the Eastern Docklands on KNSM Island, it offers the best of two worlds - a quiet local experience plus easy access to the city center. It also has bright and colorful interiors, full of cool, eclectic objects - giving it a very homey vibe.

This unusual vacation home rental in Amsterdam is located in the city's docklands, a former passenger ship that's been given a great makeover by the interior design team at KoelhuisFRIGO.

The vessel has been divided into two sections, with the owners located up front and available for any help guests might need. The rear of the boat is completely separate, offering a cosy space for 2-4 guests. The design is open, with a double-bedroom space, as well as a day bed that can be either a single or double. The galley is fully-equipped, and there's also a large bathroom with tub (taking a bath on a boat has to be experienced!).

We love the objects around the space - the string painting of Vermeer's 'The Girl with the Pearl Earring' above the day bed offers a cheeky homage to the Dutch Golden Age of painting. The quirky flight trolley in the kitchen. The little white wired Rhino, Dumbo and Bambi on the wall. Found objects, old and new, as well as browsable books on architecture, Amsterdam and the docklands, CDs and board games. An outdoor stern deck terrace with a little wood-burning stove that doubles as a barbecue. And all the little port-holes - what ship would be complete without them?

Add to all that the fact that the owners suggest exploring the docklands by stand-up paddleboard, or diving off the side of the boat into the water. There's also a 1910 tug boat that's available for tours (at extra cost).

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

There's cable TV and a stereo, concrete flooring with underfloor heating, as well as a Nespresso machine, dishwasher, coffee, tea, olive oil, herbs, and a washing machine in the kitchen. A hair dryer and shampoo are provided. Life vests are available.

AROUND

The Eastern Docklands were built for the enormous ships that travelled to the Dutch East Indies, so this is one of Amsterdam's most spacious locations. Converted in recent years into a residential area, it makes for a fun place to stay. There's a café close by in both directions on the south facing quay, as well as a bakery, restaurants, interior design shops, bookshops, supermarkets and a park. 

The boat is also located close to the city center. Public transport is available within 100m of the ship. Tram 10 will take you to Leidseplein in 15 minutes, bus 48 will take you to Central Station in 10 minutes. If you want to go local, there are also plenty of places to rent bikes. 

LOCATION

Amsterdam, Netherlands. Nearest airport: Schiphol (25 km), 15 minutes by car.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring to Fall.