Intersail Floating Hostel boat Adventure – Amsterdam

The Intersail Floating Hostel, aboard the ship Avontuur, offers a form of alojamiento that immediately grabs your attention. Located at Oosterdok jetty 4, a stone's throw from Amsterdam Central Station, this floating hostel is an option for travelers seeking a different experience. The concept of spending the night on a historic sailing ship in the capital's waters is undeniably unique. This is no ordinary hostel; it's a conscious choice to prioritize adventure and authenticity over luxury and space.

The Lure of Adventure

The main reason guests choose the Avontuur is the experience itself. Sleeping on the water, the gentle rocking of the ship, and the view from the sundeck offer a perspective on Amsterdam that few other accommodations can match. Many visitors describe the atmosphere on board as exceptionally positive. Terms like "hospitable," "friendly," and "cozy" are repeated in numerous testimonials. The communal lounge serves as the social heart of the ship, where guests are encouraged to congregate, making the experience more like a warm posada than an impersonal city hotel.

Another consistently positive feature is breakfast. Guests often praise the quality and conviviality of the morning meal, which provides a great start to the day. The host, Tommy, is praised in many reviews for his helpfulness and knowledge of the city. He offers tips on places to eat and see, which many consider a valuable addition. This personal approach enhances the feeling of a unique and welcoming stay.

The Reality of Habitaciones and Facilities

Potential guests should be aware that the Avontuur is an authentic ship, not a purpose-built hotel. This means that the available space is used optimally, resulting in modest accommodations. The habitaciones , or more accurately, the cabins, are small and typically equipped with bunk beds. As one guest noted: "Small rooms. But adequate." This is the essence of the accommodation: functional and basic. Those looking for spacious suites, comparable to those found in a resort or luxury apartamentos vacacionales , won't find what they're looking for here. Bathroom facilities, such as showers and toilets, are shared, which is standard for an albergue or hostel of this type. While most guests understand and accept this as part of the experience, it's important to be aware of this beforehand.

Critical Note: Where Improvements Can Be Made

Despite the overwhelmingly positive reviews, with an average score of 4.6 out of 174, there are also some critical voices that shouldn't be ignored. These offer a nuanced picture and help future guests make a well-informed decision. For example, the accommodation is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, as the access is not wheelchair-friendly.

A very short but powerful review simply described the place as "dirty." While this seems like an isolated comment amidst much praise, hygiene in an environment with shared facilities is a crucial concern. It raises questions about the consistency of cleaning, a factor that weighs heavily on the minds of many travelers.

A Complex Guest Experience

A more detailed, recent review paints a more complex picture of the hospitality on board. This guest acknowledged the unique experience and the initially warm welcome. However, several incidents occurred that significantly impacted the experience. For example, there was an unsanitary incident with the owner's dog in the common area, which caused some discomfort.

Enforcement of the house rules was also discussed. Guests felt there was a double standard regarding noise. While they were being addressed about their volume, noise from other guests seemed to be tolerated. This can lead to a feeling of unfair treatment. The most disturbing aspect of this review was the way the host admonished the guests to be quiet. The guest felt publicly reprimanded and "utterly ashamed." This incident stands in stark contrast to the many reviews that describe the host as friendly and hospitable. It suggests that professionalism can fluctuate under pressure, a significant risk for those seeking a harmonious and conflict-free stay in their chosen hospedaje .

Who is the Adventure Suitable for?

The Intersail Floating Hostel boat Avontuur is undoubtedly one of the more unique accommodation options in Amsterdam. It's an ideal choice for the adventurous, social, and budget-conscious traveler seeking an authentic experience who doesn't mind trading comfort and privacy for character and a prime location. It's a unique hostel that has the potential to provide an unforgettable stay.

The positive points are clear:

• A unique experience: Sleeping on a historic ship in the center of Amsterdam.
• Excellent location: Close to Central Station and many attractions.
• Friendly atmosphere: A social and welcoming environment, often praised for its friendly host.
• Good breakfast: A much appreciated extra that contributes to a good start to the day.

However, potential guests should also consider the disadvantages:

• Basic amenities: Very small accommodations (huts) and shared bathrooms. This is not a luxury hostel .
• Potential inconsistencies: There are reports of hygiene issues and, more importantly, varying levels of host professionalism, which can lead to uncomfortable situations.

Ultimately, the Avontuur is a two-faced accommodation. For most people, it offers a fantastic and memorable experience. For others, the drawbacks and the potentially unpredictable nature of the service may outweigh the downsides. It's a place you choose with your eyes wide open, knowing you're embarking on an adventure, including its potential unpredictability. It's not a traditional hotel , and certainly not a departamento or resort ; it's a floating albergue with a character all its own.