Charming houseboat with iconic Groenburgwal view in Amsterdam center

Houseboat Harmonie presents a distinctive living opportunity on one of the most sought after mooring locations in Amsterdam. Situated on the Amstel, just one street away from the bustling Rembrandtplein, this characterful vessel offers residents the chance to experience canal living from a truly privileged position. The boat occupies a spot with views overlooking the Groenburgwal and the Zuiderkerk, a perspective that was famously captured by Claude Monet in 1874. That painting now resides in the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the University of Amsterdam has historically held painting classes on the deck of this very boat, confirming the authenticity of this celebrated viewpoint.

The houseboat measures 22.80 meters in length and 3.75 meters in width, with a total height of 2.50 meters. The hull is constructed from steel, and the vessel was originally built around 1940. It has been moored at this location since 1957, establishing a long history at this particular spot on the Amstel. The interior provides approximately 44 square meters of living space, complemented by 5 square meters of additional indoor space and 5 square meters of building related outdoor area. The total volume of the boat is 110 cubic meters.

Access to the boat is via the Amstel side, where a staircase leads down into the interior. Upon entering, the layout has been thoughtfully designed to maximize both space and natural light. The living area spans the full width of the boat and features an open L shaped kitchen, a spacious lounge area, and an alcove suitable for a television up to 50 inches along with home cinema equipment. The kitchen is fully equipped with modern appliances including a Quooker instant boiling water tap, a microwave, a half height dishwasher, a full size stove, a compact fridge freezer combination, and a large oven. A concealed cabinet houses the clothes washer and dryer combination, keeping these functional appliances out of sight while remaining easily accessible.

The bedroom is located on the left side of the entrance and provides enough space for a full size double bed along with an integrated wardrobe for storage. The bathroom occupies the wheelhouse area and offers a unique feature: a private view down the Groenburgwal while showering. The bathroom is fitted with a floating toilet, a washbasin, and a shower. An integrated ceiling extractor fan ensures proper ventilation in this space.

Two large ceiling windows can be fully opened, allowing abundant natural light to flood the interior and providing the option for additional ventilation during warmer months. The headroom throughout the boat measures approximately 2 meters, which is comfortable for most residents. Numerous windows on both sides of the vessel contribute to the bright and airy atmosphere inside.

The outdoor spaces are particularly noteworthy. A private terrace of approximately 15 square meters offers direct views of the Groenburgwal and the Zuiderkerk. This area provides the exact perspective that Monet used for his famous painting. Additionally, there is a foredeck terrace of similar size, creating ample outdoor living space for relaxation and entertainment during the summer months. Below deck, a lockable storage area of approximately 8 square meters provides secure space for belongings, and this area includes a cold water tap for convenience.

The technical installations on board have been modernized to ensure comfortable living. Electric heating was installed in 2023, providing efficient warmth throughout the space. Hot water is supplied by a direct electric boiler in the bathroom. A wastewater pump handles sewage removal, and an automatic bilge pump located beneath the floor provides protection against water ingress. Security features include an internet connected camera system and alarm for peace of mind.

The current owner has invested approximately 35,000 euros in upgrades and improvements over the past five years. Between September 2024 and April 2025, the exterior woodwork and outer decks were maintained and freshly repainted, ensuring the boat presents well externally. As part of the sales process, the seller will have the hull professionally cleaned below the waterline, inspected, and treated with new antifouling at a nearby shipyard before transfer of ownership.

The location of Harmonie is one of its strongest attributes. Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, residents have immediate access to the vibrant lifestyle the city center offers. Restaurants, cafes, shops, bars, nightclubs, museums, and theaters are all within a five minute walk. The proximity to Rembrandtplein places this mooring in one of the most dynamic parts of the city, while the water side position provides a measure of tranquility that is rare in such a central location.

From a practical standpoint, there is no owners association applicable to this property, which means no monthly VvE contributions are required. The mooring fees amount to approximately 1,500 euros per year. Importantly, the houseboat is exempt from property transfer tax, which represents a significant financial benefit for the purchaser. Parking in the area is available through public parking facilities and parking permits.

The energy label for the property is rated G, which is typical for houseboats of this era. All cooking and heating is electric, consistent with modern environmental preferences. The property is registered under number 28323 B R 2006 and the cadastral reference is AMSTERDAM A 1234.

Prospective buyers should note that a non owner occupancy clause applies to this property, as the seller has recently used the boat for rental purposes. This is an important consideration for those planning to live in the property themselves or those considering it as an investment for rental income.

The asking price is 495,000 euros vrij op naam, which translates to approximately 11,250 euros per square meter of living space. The transfer is to be negotiated, and the property is currently available on the market.