Amsterdam, Netherlands
De Poezenboot (The Catboat)
A floating cat sanctuary on a canal boat in Amsterdam, Netherlands — rescued cats live aboard De Poezenboot (The Catboat).
Before you go
- Open only Tue / Fri / Sat 13:00–15:00 — check depoezenboot.nl before you go.
- Max about six visitors aboard at once; busy days mean waiting or coming back later.
- It is a shelter — please watch quietly.
About De Poezenboot (The Catboat)
De Poezenboot — The Catboat — is a floating shelter for rescued and stray cats moored on the Singel canal in central Amsterdam, Netherlands. Founded in the late 1960s by Henriette van Weelde, it remains a working sanctuary rather than a tourist petting zoo. Visitors are welcome during limited open hours to meet the cats calmly; donations support food and care. Space is small: only a handful of people may board at once, and staff instructions come first. Do not pick cats up or handle them roughly. Check the official site before you go — hours and visitor rules can change.
How to get to De Poezenboot (The Catboat)
Singel 38-G is in central Amsterdam, about a 7–10 minute walk from Amsterdam Centraal. Follow the Singel canal; the houseboat is easy to spot once you are nearby.
Visiting hours (confirm on depoezenboot.nl): Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, 13:00–15:00. Entry is free; donations are appreciated. Only about six visitors may be aboard at a time — you may need to wait or return another day if it is busy. Online reservations are not used. The boat is not wheelchair accessible.
- Walk about 7–10 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal along the Singel to number 38-G.
- Array
- Board calmly when staff allow — only a few visitors at a time; wait if needed.
- Meet the cats quietly, follow staff rules, and consider a donation.
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