The canals of Amsterdam in the Netherlands have a rich history that is as old as the city itself. Currently, they are one of the leading tourist attractions in the country, with thousands of visitors trooping each year to get a feel of the epic canal tours. Another way to have a wholesome experience of the canals is to simply rent a boat, which may not only use for the canal tours but also a more intimate contact with these legendary historical structures. If you feel that it will be a good idea to rent a boat in canals of Amsterdam, Netherlands, then here are our top picks for you.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on December 24, 2024.
Why Trust Trip101?
✅ Over 50,000 articles reviewed and published by our experienced team
✅ Over 50 years of combined experience researching, writing and reviewing travel articles
✅ Over 40,000 hours spent on research and fact-checking from credible sources (last year’s data)
✅ Optimizing content from data-driven insights collected directly from users on our platform
✅ Focus on authentic and up-to-date information by collaborating with local guides, global travelers and other industry experts
✅ Long-standing partnerships with credible brands like Airbnb, Booking.com, Agoda, Expedia, GetYourGuide, Viator, RVShare and more
✅ Full disclosure on any partnerships or sponsored content
Trip101’s team of writers, editors, and content managers oversees the publication of all travel content, including destination guides, accommodation recommendations, and travel tips. They have extensive experience in the travel industry and no content, written or visual, gets published without a review. Many of our team’s work has also been featured in Travel+Leisure, National Today, The Indian Express, The Telegraph (India), Robb Report, The Adventure Handbook, Tripoto, Korea Tourism Organization, and Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. Some of them are also members of professional organizations like the Society of American Travel Writers and the International Travel Writers and Photographers Alliance.
Each member of the team follows Trip101's methodology and strict editorial guidelines to ensure accuracy, authenticity, and relevance.
1. Lovely houseboat with a sundeck (from USD 244)
From afar, it looks like a lazy houseboat idling on the canals, but a closer look will reveal to you a gorgeous boat with stylish finishing and a super comfortable interior. The boat has a sundeck from where you get the priceless views of the private flower gardens as well as the 17th-century merchant houses. Inside, you will find one bedroom fitted with luxurious bedding and soft lighting. The sitting area is spacious enough and features a couch, a dining section, and two recliners. Then there is also a kitchenette with all the essentials you will need to fix a quick meal. Laundry facilities are also available for your convenience.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
1.66 km (1.1 mi) from ARTISSuperhost
Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
great communications from hostwonderful & attentive hostshosts were really helpful toothank you for being outstanding hostsresponsive & accommodating hostLocation:
the location is perfectperfect location to walk/bike around townthis fantastic location and great experienceit is located in a lovely neighborhood and within walking distance of everything we wanted to dogreat location to walk/bike to the various museums fashion stores and delicious restaurantsCleanliness:
it was very clean and roomyall the charm you’d expect with hot showers clean rooms cozy lounging space and a clean kitchenplace was clean modern and just right for holidaythe house was sparkling cleanhouseboat was very clean and enough space for my wife and iRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
we recommend locking the windows at night and just using the fan in the bedroom to keep coolfantastic location comfortable space (mind the headroom though ) wonderful viewwe had everything we needed for a comfortable & special stay
2. Houseboat with free bikes and a bar (from USD 274)
Arcadia is one-of-a-kind houseboat where you will find more than just a comfortable space to rest your head at night. The accommodation features a restaurant, a bar, and free bikes to enable you to explore the neighboring regions. It has a total of three bedrooms, a seating area, and one bathroom and a shower. Also included is a terrace, a barbecue, and a children’s play area. From all around the boat, you will be treated to the relaxing views of the canal upon which it rests and a swimming pool where you can always go for a dive.
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
2.44 km (1.6 mi) from ARTISAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
hermann was an excellent hosthermann is a perfect host and is very welcominghermann was an excellent host and easy to communicate withhermann was super friendly and very helpfulhermann was a brilliant host very helpful and he even let us check out late on our final dayLocation:
the location is fantasticgreat location close to many restaurants and close to central stationgreat location near anne frank house and not far from dam squarepicturesque location to take in life in amsterdamamazing place in a beautiful locationCleanliness:
the houseboat itself is clean and in an outstanding location yet private and incredibly quietit was clean and hermann put a huge bowl of fruit and drinks which was really niceRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
don't let the idea of a houseboat deter you - it is cozy and comfortableinsane view favorite neighborhood comfortable and incredibly relaxingthe bed is probably the most comfortable i've slept in and everything worked perfectly
3. Houseboat ideal for couples in the city center (from USD 181)
If you are traveling with a partner to Amsterdam and you would like to rent a boat, then you have every reason to check out this houseboat next to the city center and Rembrandt Square. It has one bedroom but has a total of three beds inside the boat. The living area has a sectional sofa with comfortable cushions and soft lighting. There is a small kitchen with a microwave, a coffee maker and an electric kettle as well as the necessary utensils to get you going. For guests’ entertainment, there is a flat-screen television and Wi-Fi connection throughout the boat.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
1.31 km (0.9 mi) from ARTISAccommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Host:
very nice host and placehost was incredibly helpful with directions tips and suggestionour host was very friendly and communicated wellvery nice and welcoming hostthe hosts were responsive & available-very kind when we met themLocation:
perfect location walking distance to just about everythingthe location was perfectgreat location and a beautiful boatit is walking distance to everything and pretty close to the tram spotthe location is great it’s close to all the major sightsRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
electricity worked hot and cold water great wifi and the views from the roof are stunning
4. Fully equipped houseboat with elaborate arrangements (from USD 486)
It is a gorgeous 23 meter (75.4 feet) houseboat situated in the magnificent Noordermarkt, just next to the canal Prinsengracht. The houseboat used to be a cargo vessel but has since been transformed to provide a spacious and fully equipped accommodation complete with a lounge area, a sundeck, a living room, a wood burner, modern kitchen and a total of two bedrooms. Its location makes access to amenities and attractions easy, given that the canals, farmers’ market, pubs, the gallery area, and restaurants are just a few minutes away on foot.
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
2.52 km (1.6 mi) from ARTISAccommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Host:
our host was delightful knowledgeable about the area and made us feel very welcomehans was such a splendid hostshe was so sweet and helpfuland remco was a fantastic host with great tipsone of the best airbnb experiences ever hands down of any host house or country :)again just amazingLocation:
the location is perfectclose walk to anne frank house and other places of interestalso the location was excellentgreat fun great location highly recommendedit is a great location to walk anywhereCleanliness:
everything was clean and organizedin great shape cleannot only is it adorable but it’s clean comfortable spacious and in a perfect locationits clean and cozy and everything you'd need is available on the boatRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
two comfy beds all amenities you need a brilliant roof deck with table and chairsthe master bedroom has a wonderfully large and comfortable bed with plenty of closet spacevery comfortable warm boat with all mod cons in a fantastic locationcharming comfortable spacious canal boatmain living area with the kitchen is a great place to unwind - comfortable and tastefully decorated
Amsterdam Tour Guide
Locally Louke
Hi, my name is Louke and I live and work in the historical city of Amsterdam. My style of guiding is custom. That feeling you get from meeting up with a friend that shows you around their city. Obviously, I will take you to see the things on your bucket list and I will help you get the lay of the land and share tips and tricks of how to get the most out of your stay in my city.
Tours by Locally
5. Unique houseboat near The Wallen
This unique houseboat is in a very convenient location, given that attractions and amenities such as the Palace Amsterdam, Science Center NEMO, the Beehive, the Wallen, and the Dam are all within walking distance. It has one bed which makes it ideal for a couple. The interior is clean, well furnished, complete with a small kitchenette with basic appliance and utensils. The views from the place may not be the best, but it is suitable for those who would love to discover Amsterdam from a convenient location.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
916 meters (0.6 ft) from ARTISAccommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Host:
our host was incredibly welcoming and kindjohn and thuus were fantastic hosts very efficient and thoughtfulhad a late flight out and the hosts were great with accommodating usjohn and truul are great hoststhere is even a great hot shower our hosts were very friendly and communication was easyLocation:
great place great location (close to amsterdamn central)nice location relatively near the city center and 10 minutes walk from the central stationthe location is perfect the hotspots are in walking distancelocation is perfect for expliring dam its centrally located yet quiet and privategreat location and really enjoyed our stayCleanliness:
clean and comfortableit was surprisingly spacious inside and everything was clean and comfortableit was beautifully clean and comfortable and had everything we neededplace is very unique clean safe & not so loudthe houseboat was very clean if i needed any assistance the host was very promptRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
stunning views of the water & such a cozy place to staythe wifi could be a little spotty but everything else was greatthe houseboat is super comfy cozy and warm
6. Gorgeous houseboat next to the Central Station
This splendid accommodation has two bedrooms which can comfortably sleep four guests. Think of it as a two-bedroom apartment located just a few steps from the Central Station, the Red Light District, WaterlooPlein, and the shopping center. Guest to this space will have access to two double bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, a bathroom with shower and a sun terrace. For guests’ comfort, convenience and entertainment, there is hot water, central heating, cable TV, kitchen utensils, towels, and bed linen. Spending in this boathouse will also ensure that you get the best of the views from the water.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
1.38 km (0.9 mi) from ARTISTop guest reviews
Host:
our host was very friendly and helpfuljoris was a perfect hostour host was very welcoming and warm when we first arrivedgreat host great boat great timecaro the host was very welcoming and she tried to help us in everything she couldLocation:
the location is an easy 10 minute walk from central stationjust 5 minutes from central station the location is perfectgood and convenient locationthe location is one of the best everything is within walking distanceawesome boat awesome location loved every minute of the stayRead more reviewsCleanliness:
the houseboat is beautiful very clean and very well equippedit was very clean and stay there was nicethe boat had been beautifully redone and was very clean and comfortablevery spacious clean and decently furnishedfantastic boat clean and very comfortable - all it said it was
7. Luxury houseboat next to the city
This is a luxury houseboat located right opposite the Hermitage, and just a few minutes on foot from the zoo, Plantage, the shopping area, and Rembrandt Square. This accommodation features one spacious loft where you will find the bedroom, fitted with a toilet and a private shower. There are two sun terraces from where you will enjoy the spectacular views of the Skinny Bridge. It may look very simplistic in design, but it has all you will ever need for a decent boat accommodation.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
908 meters (0.6 ft) from ARTISTop guest reviews
Host:
hosts were very helpfuledward is a super host with nice recommendations and fast responseedward was a wonderful hostthey were great hosts and we loved everything about the bargeedward was also a great host checking in on us every so often despite being on vacation himselfLocation:
very well located and safethe location is great and close to all the main attractionsmoreover the location is very gooda very nice place on a perfect locationeasy to walk to public transit (if you need it) and close to many shops restaurants and barsCleanliness:
very clean and comfortableeverything was very clean and the decoration was greatthe place was cleangreat accomodation boat is incredible ( modern clean & novel )Read more reviewsAmenities & Room:
there's fast wifi tv netflix great sound system dishwasher and all mod consthe interior was perfect and it was a very comfortable stayit has heated floors and a great shower
8. Well-appointed houseboat in a favorable location
It is a cozy and romantic boathouse located next to the Artis Zoo, the Central Station, and is also in proximity to public transportation and great restaurants. It has two bedrooms, with two beds and one bath. The sitting area is spacious enough with large windows to allow lots of natural light and great views from inside the boathouse. Also featured is a small kitchenette with all the necessary equipment for preparing home meals, and there is also a dining area with a dining table for enjoying your home-cooked meals.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
973 meters (0.7 ft) from ARTISTop guest reviews
Host:
the company sjoerd uses iamairbnb i think was helpful and answered all of my questionsthank you to sjoerd his family and the iamb&b team for hosting us in your beautiful citythe management company we dealt with was super friendly and very prompt in addressing our messagesLocation:
perfect location (quite and peaceful and yet very central)great house boat perfect locationcentral enough to walk everywhere but secluded enough to relaxa very nice boathouse in a superb locationvery nice and cozy houseboat in good central location near all the main tourist sitesCleanliness:
it was very clean and well maintainedvery clean and comfortable space toilet and bathroom modern and spaciousRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
with stunning views of the canals from every room this houseboat is a tremendous findcool views of the canals from the living roomthe hammock was a great touch too only complaint was very slow wifi but well worth staying herewe loved our stay in this authentic comfortable and spacious house boat
9. Adventurous houseboat on a canal
No electricity, shower or running water, but lamps, heater, charger, and a working toilet is available when you rent this adventurous houseboat on the canal. It features a spacious lounge area where there is a bed as well as a sofa bed enough to provide accommodation for up to two guests. It may not be you regular houseboats synonymous with the canals of Amsterdam, but if you would like to experience camping in the middle of a modern city, then it will be a very good option for you.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
509 meters (0.4 ft) from ARTISTop guest reviews
Host:
anne’s boat is a lovely budget-friendly way to visit amsterdamRead more reviewsLocation:
great location 100 meters to weesperplein metro and trainscarre theater is close by to enjoy an outstanding performancethe neighborhood is also quite nice and a good location for seeing lots of sightsan adventurous place to stay in a quiet downtown area
10. Boat hostel with triple bedroom
The Liberte boat hostel has just one bedroom but is well equipped to accommodate up to three guests. It features one single bed and one bunk bed. There is a sink, a shower, and a toilet. And for meals and entertainment, the boat has a communal living area and kitchen shared with other guests on the boat. You will fall in love with the views of the Skinny Bridge from the sitting area.
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland, Netherlands
1.01 km (0.7 mi) from ARTISTop guest reviews
Host:
alex was a great hostamazing place comfy and tidy the host is an amazing guy ready to help at any given momentthe host was very accommodating and the morning breakfast and travel tips were super helpfulwill is always there to help or give any helpful advicethe staff are friendly and well educated in whats to offer in amsterdamLocation:
location was convenient/walking distance to both central train station red light district and other attractionsgood bed good location and great value for the moneylovely place to stay very close to the city centerthe location is near the central station so you can reach anything easily by footit was an amazing experience that living in a boat the location was very good near the city centerCleanliness:
the rooms are very small but clean and comfortablethe beds are really comfortable; the linen is clean; the towels are fluffy and the shower is greatRead more reviewsAmenities & Room:
the rooms were small and there wasn't much room to move around but it was perfectwe also really enjoyed the breakfast and meeting new people
Experience the thrill of spending a night in a boat
Amsterdam comes with unique experiences for visitors, and a tour of the canals is always on the itinerary of most visitors. Don’t just tour the canals, but take a step further to rent a boat in the canals of Amsterdam and experience the thrill of having to spend a night on a boat.
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
