Amsterdam has no shortage of postcard-worthy experiences. You can cycle past centuries-old canal houses, hop aboard a scenic cruise, spend hours inside world-famous museums and end the day at a cosy café overlooking the water. But hidden among those canals is something you probably won’t find on a typical travel itinerary: Amsterdam’s Cat Boat that’s entirely dedicated to rescued cats!
What Is De Poezenboot, Amsterdam’s Cat Boat Sanctuary?
Meet De Poezenboot, literally translating to “The Cat Boat”, a floating animal shelter moored along Amsterdam’s Singel Canal. It’s charming, a little quirky, incredibly heartwarming and perhaps one of the city’s most unexpected attractions. Even better, anyone can visit it for free.
The story began nearly six decades ago with one woman and a cat that simply refused to become someone else’s problem.
Back in 1966, Amsterdam resident Henriëtte van Weelde found a stray mother cat with her kittens outside her home. She decided to care for them until they found families. Then more abandoned cats started appearing. Friends, neighbours and even complete strangers began knocking on her door, hoping she could help another feline in need. Her house soon overflowed with whiskers, paws and tails.
Most people would have reached their limit. Henriëtte bought a boat instead.
In 1968, she transformed a houseboat into a refuge for homeless cats, creating what is now widely regarded as the world’s only floating cat sanctuary. As the number of rescues kept growing, a second boat was added in 1971 to provide more space. Over the years, the shelter evolved from one woman’s extraordinary act of kindness into an internationally recognised non-profit organisation that continues to rescue hundreds of cats every year.
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Inside De Poezenboot: Meet The Rescued Cats Living On The Canal
Today, De Poezenboot temporarily houses around 50 cats at a time, while 200 to 250 cats pass through its care annually before finding permanent homes. Every cat that arrives receives veterinary attention, vaccinations, microchipping, neutering or spaying when required, and plenty of time to recover in a safe environment before becoming available for adoption.
Unlike most animal shelters tucked away on the outskirts of cities, this one floats peacefully on one of Amsterdam’s busiest canals.
Step into this unique spot and you’ll find bright wooden interiors filled with climbing shelves, cosy baskets, scratching posts, hammocks, window perches and sleeping cats soaking up the afternoon sun. Through the large windows, the famous canal glides quietly past while curious felines watch boats and cyclists go about their day.
The shelter is run almost entirely by volunteers, with donations funding food, medical treatments, maintenance and everyday operations. There is no government-funded tourist experience here. Every euro contributed goes towards giving another abandoned cat a better life!
If you happen to fall in love with one of the residents, adoption is possible too, although the organisation carefully screens every application to ensure each cat is matched with the right family.
You’ll find De Poezenboot at Singel 38-G, just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station. The shelter is usually open to visitors every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday between 1 PM and 3 PM.
Amsterdam is famous for its canals; this one just happens to have 50 adorable reasons to stop and explore.
Cover Image Courtesy: amsterdamtopspot/X and vacations/Instagram
FAQs
What is De Poezenboot in Amsterdam?
De Poezenboot is the world's only floating cat sanctuary, located on a houseboat along Amsterdam's Singel Canal. It rescues, rehabilitates, and rehomes abandoned and stray cats.
Is De Poezenboot free to visit?
Yes. Entry to De Poezenboot is free, although visitors are encouraged to donate to help support the shelter's rescue and care efforts.
Where is De Poezenboot located?
The floating cat sanctuary is located at Singel 38-G, Amsterdam, just a short walk from Amsterdam Central Station.
