In general, vacationing on a fully equipped ship in the heart of Holland is an amazing opportunity. But with Jeanette's listing, it's a not just a 'general opportunity': It's a once in a experience that cannot be missed. I stayed with Jeanette for a month and it was a month I'll never forget.
The ship itself is 80 feet long and situated next to a small barge that Jeanette has decorated beautifully with flowers, patio furniture, and other simple decorations that, for me, almost gave the illusion of being on your own little island in the heart of Rotterdam. You have your own outdoor sitting area at the bow which is also your entrance, as well as another sitting area on the roof. Both of which provide sensational views of the water, nearby bridge, and the stunning Calex Building - a surviving artifact of pre-war Rotterdam dubbed 'Europe's first skyscraper'. You'll also enjoy ducks and swans swimming in the water, the occasional boat sailing past, and a relaxing place to people watch.
Inside is two levels, with the entry level hosting a kitchen equipped with a mini fridge (that includes a freezer), stove top, a toaster-oven capable of temperatures reaching 250c, a coffee machine, espresso machine, and teapot. Jeanette has equipped the kitchen with an abundance of cutlery, plates, saucers, drinking glasses, wine glasses, mugs, and every type of cooking equipment and cooking utensils you could need. The living and kitchen area is completely surrounded by large windows (four of which can be partially opened) that will allow you to enjoy the views from the comfortable chairs and pull out couch. Climbing below deck on the quintessential steep ship stairs, is the bedroom, den, and washroom. It is on this level where Jeanette's hospitality and generosity is once again on full display, as she has provided an enormous amount of towels, wash clothes, and bedding - all tidily kept in the dens cupboard. This level is surrounded with portholes for windows, which can be opened once unscrewed, which serve as a charming reminder that this isn't merely a house boat, but was/is a fully functioning ship. Prior to booking I was concerned about how much light I would get in this area, however it proved no problem at all. On sunny days you get perfectly acceptable amounts of light, and on cloudy days the ample light fixtures more than makes up for it. The beds are comfortable, the washroom spacious and equipped with soaps, shampoo, and a hairdrier. Water pressure, hot water, and heating was never an issue. You won't have to worry about sea sickness either as the most you'll usually experience is a gentle sway, once or twice a day. Even on a windy day the movement was only occasional instead of perpetual, and rather than a disturbance, only added to the charm of being on the water. Wifi was perfect too.
The location couldn't be better either. The Martkhal, Cube Houses, Albert Heijn, hairdressers, restaurants, and the Blaak tram and subway station are all a short, simple, and scenic walk away. In addition to being centrally located, the area is safe and noise was never a bother.
You would be surprised how quickly you get adapted to living onboard - after a while it becomes like any other apartment. But the thrill of living on a ship never left me, and there was always something that reminded me of me current living arrangement and would promptly put a smile on my face. It's not just an airbnb or a place to stay: It's an entire experience. Regardless of how long you book, staying here - on a boat in Holland - will be something you'll never forget. But when you stay for a month like I did, it very much takes on a whole other, wonderful, experience.
Finally, Jeanette herself is a friendly, considerate, and prompt host who gives you lots of space and is always ready to offer advice, info, and provide assistance.