Vita Nova – A bed and breakfast that will surely float your boat
In the canals of Amersfoort, you’ll find this buoyant little haven, Vita Nova. Imagine spending the evening playing games in the warm belly of a ship, then falling asleep peacefully on the slow sway of the water. This watercraft turned bed and breakfast is guaranteed to float anyone’s boat!
History
Vita Nova, built in Belgium in 1940, is a historic, motorized cargo boat. Technically called a ‘spits’, its specific size was built to navigate the canals of Belgium and France. Fun fact: when it was still operational, it actually docked in Amersfoort multiple times! In 2010, Vita Nova decided to permanently throw its anchor overboard and pursue a new life as a unique bed and breakfast.
The cabins
Today you can spend the night in one of its five modern ship’s cabins or in the sailor’s cabin. The modern cabins are small, yet cosy with their own private bathrooms. For something a little more special, the sailor’s cabin is equipped with an ensuite bathroom and its own private entry from the deck. It also has two separate single beds, one of which has a trundle underneath.
The lobby
The lobby area is in the centre of the ship. Here you’ll find a full kitchen, drinks and snacks for purchase plus a sparkly new espresso machine! One of my favorite things about the lobby was the dècor! A collection of anitique items, coffee table books, and lights hung by rope complete the warm ambiance. Also, thanks to their great collection of games, this is a perfect place to come together, sit by the fire and enjoy your groups company!
The surroundings
Close to the city centre, this vessel found its permanent watery home in ‘De Nieuwe Stad’. This area is known as being filled with the most creative people of Amersfoort. Here you’ll find small businesses, galleries and restaurants. For our shopaholics, ‘Eemplein’ has loads of cool stores with a supermarket and cinema. So, whether you spend your time all-aboard or exploring the shore, we know you’ll leave this B&B in shipshape!
Breakfast
Breakfast is prepared fresh every morning and served in the ship’s lobby. You’ll find a delicious selection of bread from a local bakery, an assortment of meats and cheeses, fruit, yogurt, and of course, a hard-boiled egg! The perfect Dutch breakfast to help start your day. Overall, it is the cherry on top of this unique holiday experience.
→ This article was written in collaboration with Vita Nova We got to stay here for free, in exchange for content. Of course you can read our own opinion here!
