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UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!

Houseboat in Monnickendam

Photo gallery for UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!

Marina
Dining
Room
Room
Room

Reviews

8.2 out of 10
Very good
1 bedroom1+ bathroomSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
  • Lake view

Explore the area

View map
  • Place, Tourist information Center Monnickendam
  • Place, De Waegh
  • Place, Irene Hoeve Clogs and Cheese Shop
  • Airport, Amsterdam (AMS-Schiphol)

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

1 bathroom, 1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Bathroom 2

About this property

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.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Outdoor space
Parking available
Lake view
Barbecue

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House Rules

Check in after 2:00 PM
Check out before 12:00 PM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

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
On-site 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 that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is not required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Monnickendam

Located in Monnickendam, this houseboat is on the waterfront. Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum are cultural highlights, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit The 9 Streets. Looking to enjoy an event or a game? See what's going on at Johan Cruyff Arena or Ziggo Dome. Discover the area's water adventures with windsurfing and power boating nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with hiking/biking trails and ecotours.
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Map
Monnickendam

What's nearby

  • Volendam Harbour - 9 min drive - 6.8 km
  • Passenger Terminal Amsterdam - 16 min drive - 15.7 km
  • Dam Square - 19 min drive - 17.3 km
  • Anne Frank House - 21 min drive - 18.3 km
  • Van Gogh Museum - 24 min drive - 19.0 km

Getting around

  • Noord Station - 10 min drive
  • Purmerend Overwhere Station - 12 min drive
  • Schiphol Airport (AMS) - 29 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Palingrokerij Smit-Bokkum - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Kaasboerderij Henri Willig - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Restaurant Pieterman - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Strandvier - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪De Waegh - ‬9 min walk

Frequently asked questions

Is UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?

As of 14 Nov 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! on 15 Nov 2025 start from AU$255.35, including 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.

How much is parking at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?

Check-in begins at 2:00 PM.

What time is check-out at UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM!?

Checkout is at 12:00 PM.

Where is UNIQUE STAY ON THE WATER - CLOSE TO AMSTERDAM! located?

Situated on the waterfront, this houseboat is steps from Markermeer and within 9 mi (15 km) of Volendam Harbour and WONDR Experience. The Kromhouthal and Nemo Science Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

8.2

Very good

7.8/10

Cleanliness

8.0/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

9.0/10

Check-in

9.0/10

Communication

8.6/10

Location

7.6/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 8 out of 17 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 17 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 2 out of 17 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 17 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 17 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

Kendra U.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Megan B., Bentonville , AR , US

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Craig

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Very unique little boat, in a beautifully quiet marina, nice little spots to eat and drink in walking distance
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

John W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very interesting

We are glad we tried it out. Loved the peaceful location
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023

2/10 Terrible

Hannah O.

Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2023

8/10 Good

Muriel L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kristina S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2023

6/10 Okay

cecile a.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Check-in, communication

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2023

8/10 Good

Maickel G.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Unique and lovely stay for the night

Unique and lovely acco.. only downside are the mosquitos
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022

6/10 Okay

Carolina

Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness
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?
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Ann Marie G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2022

4/10 Poor

Niklas W.

Liked: Check-in, communication
Disliked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Matthew B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Heather L., Lakeport Ca

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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 💚
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2022

8/10 Good

Laura C.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location

Nice stay on boat

Nice boat , special experience, unique , would recommand it!:)
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2020

8/10 Good

Thomas M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

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!
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

hannah l.

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

About the host

Hosted by Nicky Heertjes

Host profile image

Languages:

English, Dutch
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