Merlijn is a great host. He was in touch with me a week before. He answered my questions, gave accurate directions on how to reach his place. When we reached his boat, he explained how things worked, patiently answered all questions and gave suggestions on how we could plan our stay in Amsterdam. The houseboat itelf is unique. Merlijn stays here and all facilities were available and worked as instructed. When we left, he drove us down to the nearby Amstel station with our luggage!