We spent a wonderful 3 nights in Harold's boat. It is a unique houseboat, converted by Harold from a 100 year old freight barge about 12 years ago. Our stay was a fabulous, comfortable and quirky experience that both ourselves and our teenage children really enjoyed.
Harold was very friendly and helpful. He collected us from the nearest tram stop after arrival in Amsterdam and took us to the boat in his car, giving us tea and a quick tour of the accommodation, which was much appreciated.
The two single 'cabin' beds are at the bow of the ship and double bed is at the stern, with stunning views of the Amsterdam skyline across the bay. There is a separate WC and shower near the bow, then the living area, which was beautifully furnished and surprisingly spacious. We made good use of the washing machine, dishwasher, fridge and freezer, which are all accessed from the living area. A deck level foyer links the back bedroom to the living area, by a short stair.
We did not use the bikes, but used buses, trams and the metro to travel into Amsterdam and around. Our favoured route was a 15 minute walk over the bridge to the tram stop, then a 10 minute journey to the Central Station.
There was an extremely handy supermarket 2 minutes over the road, well stocked with local and international produce and the boat is well equipped so we ate very well. We stayed during a period of very hot weather and it was a definite hightlight of the stay to be able to jump from the back of the boat into the water 2m below, which was fresh and clean and very refreshing. The boat was reaccessed by a ladder to the side.
It should be understood that this isn't a hotel or guest house, it is Harold's home, which is a beautifully and lovingly converted boat. There are doors in strange places, gorgeous stained glass in many of the internal doors, storage under the beds, low ceilngs in some places and you are very close to nature. For us, that was part of the charm of staying there.