Hello!
I am going to Amsterdam next weekend and my boyfriend and I would like to stay at a houseboat. Nevertheless, I have heard that maybe they are more suitable in summer and not worth it during fall/winter. Does anyone have a clue whether that's true?
If you do have suggestions for any specific houseboat, please let me know. I am currently checking out those mentioned before on the Thorn Tree Forum.
Thanks a lot!
Amsterdam's houseboats are well suited for year round living.They have central heating or some other kind of heating device and most are insulated. Winters can be damp, though. Besides, living space is limited and since chances that you will be able to sit on the deck or terrace to watch life on the canals pass by are somewhat limited in winter, they can get a little cramped. But it's always nice to be able to step on a boat after a day of sightseeing instead of climbing x flights of stairs to get to your (probably equally cramped) hotel room.
I've never stayed in a houseboat, but given that a lot of people live in them year-round I wouldn't worry. We are used to cold and damp weather in this country, so (central) heating is standard furniture.
The boats are fine in winter. We stayed on one over New Year & I used to live on one year round (years ago). The ones for rent in Amsterdam all have central heating and most have wood stoves as well, which aren't necessary for heat but are nice & cosy.
If you are booking through Speciality of Amsterdam, be aware that they have a 3 night minimum stay.
But I can't recommend them enough. We've stayed on 2 of their boats and will be staying on a third for my birthday in february.
I'm sure they will be fine. People might have suggested summer as a better season because it allows you to sit on deck, and more small boats pass by, cruising the canals. It sounds like a lovely experience, I've never slept on one (only visited friends on one).
I have listed my recommendations for things to see and do in Amsterdam on my website > Travel > Amsterdam Tips.
Veel plezier,
Cécile
Amsterdam