On lake.A stay at this houseboat places you within half a mile (1 km) of Markermeer and 6 miles (10 km) of Volendam Harbour. Dam Square and Rijksmuseum are also within 12 miles (20 km).
Passenger Terminal Amsterdam - 17 min drive - 10.3 miles
Dam Square - 18 min drive - 10.6 miles
Anne Frank House - 19 min drive - 11.4 miles
Van Gogh Museum - 20 min drive - 11.9 miles
Getting around
Noord Station - 10 min drive
Purmerend Overwhere Station - 12 min drive
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) - 29 min drive
Restaurants
Kaasboerderij Henri Willig - 16 min walk
Paviljoen Smit-Bokkum - 6 min drive
Strandvier - 4 min drive
Restaurant Pieterman - 6 min drive
Grand Café de Botterwerf - 6 min drive
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 STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!
Ah! Welcome on board!
This is your captain speaking .. It's my pleasure to show you the most unique stay you'll probably ever find on HomeAway in The Netherlands. This unique lifeboat has such a great story behind. Once, this boat was being a hero on a very special ship called Polarstern with its homebase of Bremerhaven - Germany. The Polarstern, which is still active and running, is doing research at the polar circle in Antarctica. They do something awesome for the science nowadays. One of the most valuable studies they do is all about the research of the melting ice level which is increasing every single year. This boat had the really important function to help all the crew to evacuate in case of emergency, luckily it never went that far. But they also took this boat into the ice floes when the research vessel couldn't get that far. It took a long time for this little beauty to end up in The Netherlands, but it finally arrived at its last destination: (idyllic) Monnickendam.
We love the story behind this orange monster, so we decided to create something special. We completely renovated the entire boat to make it a unique place to sleep and relax. And here it is! Our guests really loved it and higly recommend this place to others. We hope you love this as much as we do! But I'm sure, you won't be disappointed.
The boat: If you love a cozy, nice and lovely place to stay: this is it! Weird to find and unique in its sort. It has a really comfy double bed, a three seat sitting area with a foldable table to sit down and relax, free WIFI and a satellite TV with a wide variety of national and international channels. With the installed Chromecast you 're able to watch any film or series you like right from phone, tablet or laptop! Pretty much everything you need. Also, there's a fridge on board to keep your stuff cool at any time, different kids or snacks and drinks and don't forget some board games to spend the late evening hours. On top of that there is a coffee machine to make yourself an early morning coffee or tea. We provide you with free coffee and tea as a gift, to thank you for choosing our stay! There´s no bathroom facility on the boat itselves, but on walking distance (less then a minute) there’s a big bathroom facility which offers free hot / cold showers and toilets. And believe me, they're clean and comfy! Nothing to lie or worry about.
Carbon monoxide detector not reported (host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock
General
Property does not allow children
Policies
Check-in
Check-in time starts at 2:00 PM
Check-out
Check-out before 12:00 PM
Special check-in instructions
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Pets
No pets allowed
Children and extra beds
This property does not allow children.
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
This property accepts cash
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadbolt lock
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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. This property accepts cash. Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a deadbolt lock in each accommodation.
Property is also known as
Vrbo Property
Unique Stay ON THE Water - Close TO Amsterdam! Houseboat
Unique Stay ON THE Water - Close TO Amsterdam! Monnickendam
Frequently asked questions
How close is UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! to the airport?
This houseboat is 21.9 mi (29-min drive) away from the Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.
How much does it cost to stay at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?
As of May 15, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! on May 25, 2025 start from $121.9, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Does UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! have an airport shuttle?
Airport shuttle services are not available at this houseboat.
How close is UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! to the beach?
This houseboat is 12.6 mi (31-min drive) from Blijburg Beach.
Does UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! offer free breakfast?
This houseboat does not offer free breakfast.
Is there a casino at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?
No, there is no casino at this houseboat, but Holland Casino Amsterdam West (16-min drive) and Holland Casino (20-min drive) are nearby.
What time is check-in at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.
Is there free parking at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?
Free parking is not available at this houseboat.
Does UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! have a pool?
This houseboat does not have a pool.
Does UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! have a spa?
There are no spa services available at this houseboat.
How close is UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! to downtown Monnickendam?
This houseboat is 0.6 mi away from Monnickendam.
UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! Reviews
Reviews
8.0
Very Good
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travelers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
Very unique little boat, in a beautifully quiet marina, nice little spots to eat and drink in walking distance
Craig
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025
10/10 Excellent
John W.
Oct 4, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Very interesting
We are glad we tried it out. Loved the peaceful location
John W.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
2/10 Terrible
Hannah O.
Sep 14, 2023
Disliked: Cleanliness
Beware of spiders and no water
The stay for us was short. We showed up and climbed into the boat and once we got the lights on we were greeted by a huge spider that we killed. Then we noticed there is no access to water or towels provided. There were another few more giant spiders and we decided we couldn’t sleep there because what is going to happen over night if huge spiders just keep appearing. The wifi didn’t reach the boat, I am so disappointed in this place. We stayed for less than a half hour before running off to the bus stop and finding a hotel with clean white sheets.
Hannah O.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023
10/10 Excellent
Megan B., Bentonville , AR , US
Jul 2, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Unique stay in a suprise Town
We chose this due to it being one of thr only stays available near Amsterdam after our oeiginal booking had to cancel. Very unique stay( loved the history ), but it didn't end with the boat . Monnikendam is a quaint town with a rich nautical and Dutch history. The shops are beautiful and the food delightful- the perfect in to our Europe trip!
The host was super helpful and accomodating and the Marina and boat a real treat to rest and walk around in. Highly reccomended!
Megan B.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023
8/10 Good
Kendra U.
Jun 8, 2023
Adventurous Stay
The boat is a very fun place to stay and a great home base to go to Amsterdam. It’s about 30 minutes out of the city center and is very easily accessible by bus. We enjoyed the novelty and history of the boat.
Kendra U.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
10/10 Excellent
Kristina S.
May 2, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Unique stay in a charming village
Thoroughly enjoyed the experience on the water in Monnickendam, a truly charming village. It was easy to get there using the reliable bus lines. I would stay again.
Kristina S.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023
8/10 Good
Maickel G.
Aug 19, 2022
Unique and lovely stay for the night
Unique and lovely acco.. only downside are the mosquitos
Maickel G.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
10/10 Excellent
Ann Marie G.
Jun 24, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Quaint town an extra draw!
Thr small town near the marina, less than 4 min walk, was a wonderful place to have a drink and dinner. It was also very close to the bus making it easy for us to get there and back from Amasterdam. The only issue is that there is not a bathroom in the boat. We had to use the marina. It was a nice one very clean but I didn’t remember reading that there was not a bathroom in the rental info.
Ann Marie G.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022
10/10 Excellent
Matthew B.
Apr 25, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Nice Spot!
Easy check-in: just find the orange boat at the marina. For us, this was quite simple, and the host included a map prior to our arrival that made it easy.
House manual contained all the info we needed, and the bus stop was just a five minute walk, which made getting to the city quite easy.
Matthew B.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022
10/10 Excellent
Heather L., Lakeport Ca
Apr 14, 2022
Liked: Cleanliness
Epic
One of the coolest places I've ever stayed, in all my travels. The boat location was easily accessible from Amsterdam, and was very beautiful. Lovely Harbor. The history of the boat is what made me fall in love, what a cool opportunity to get to stay there!! Bed was comfy, and the boat had all the amenities one could need. Nickey was super friendly, and helpful. Highly recommended 💚
Heather L.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022
8/10 Good
Laura C.
Aug 17, 2020
Nice stay on boat
Nice boat , special experience, unique , would recommand it!:)
Laura C.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2020
8/10 Good
Muriel L.
Jun 24, 2023
Liked: Cleanliness
Sejour insolite en bateau de sauvetage
Petite escapade agreable à refaire. Depuis la gare centrale prendre le bus station supérieure no 316 ou 314 en direction de edam et descendre a l'arrêt Lagedijk. Et revenir en arrière direction de la marina.
Vous pouvez aller souper les tappas à Los del puerto. Le patron est super!
Muriel L.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023
6/10 Okay
cecile a.
May 1, 2023
Séjour unique, oui. MAIS...
"Séjour unique sur l'eau"... de fait...
Hôte injoignable ou après18 à 24h d attente, même avec ses coordonnées dites d urgence : infos de WiFi périmées donc non utilisables pour informations locales et organisation du séjour/ plus d électricité dans le bateau, donc ni chauffage, ni lumière... dans un caisson clos non isolé ! 13 degrés au réveil... après 2h sans nouvelle, nous avons quitté.
2 Salles de bain : comprendre 2 blocs sanitaires dans la Marina.
WC séparés : et pour cause, pas sur place.
Aucun nettoyage des douches et WC durant les 3 jours.
En soi, pas un problème, il aurait surtout fallu avoir des informations explicites et claires sur les réelles conditions de vie.
Impossibilité de chauffer un repas ni sur le bateau ni dans la Marina ; prévoir stock d eau pour le quotidien...
Parking : comprendre se garer dans les rues adjacentes en ville
Privilégier le séjour en plein été !
J en garde un bon souvenir parce que, oui, c'est exceptionnel ! Voisins curieux, courtois et agréables.
Les passants en ville sont avenants et avides de proposer leur aide.
Par ailleurs, Amsterdam très bien desservi par bus depuis la ville.
Monnickendam est une ville très agréable pour se promener ou boire un verre.
Het is bijzonder om in zo’n boot te slapen, maar bij warm weer niet te doen. Je kan helaas de ramen niet open maken om te ventileren, omdat de muggen naar binnen komen. Het zou fijn zijn als er een manier is om een hor te plaatsen, bijvoorbeeld bij de opening op het dak of zo mogelijk bij een raam?
Carolina
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022
4/10 Poor
Niklas W.
Jun 22, 2022
Disliked: Cleanliness
Leider anders als erwartet
Auf dem Weg zum Boot stellten wir direkt fest, dass das Boot sich nicht an der Stelle wie auf den Bildern zu sehen ist befand. Die Lage war deutlich schlechter. Nach der Ankunft merkten wir, dass sich das Boot tagsüber komplett aufgezeizt hatte. Auch die Luft war äußerst stickig. Beim öffnen des Fensters (Bootstür) flogen etliche Tiere in das Boot. Die Luft veränderte sich trotzdem nicht. Beim Versuch möglichst viele der Mücken zu erwischen entdeckten wir dass sich in vielen Ecken große Spinnen in Spinnennetzten befanden. Außerdem war das Boot im Bereich des Steuerrads mit Reinigungsmitteln und anderen "Werkzeugen" vollgestellt. Zudem ließ sich die Tür (von innen) nicht vollends schließen, sodass sie nicht gesichert werden konnte.
Niklas W.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022
8/10 Good
Thomas M.
Dec 31, 2019
Liked: Cleanliness
Tolles Abenteuer
Außergewöhnliches Erlebnis, breites Bett, schöne Sitzecke, TV ausbaufähig, Chromecast hat bei uns nicht geklappt - nicht schlimm, Check In super easy, Waschräume am Hafen ok, aber nicht optimal, nette Cafes, Restaurants im Ort, sehr nahe Amsterdam.
Empfehlenswert!