There are only about two dozen houseboats with a room to let in Amsterdam out of the 2,500 floating quietly throughout the city. So staying a night in one is not only a rare occurrence, but a distinct pleasure.

When we arrived at the Blue Wave Houseboat, we immediately knew which one it was — the wavy roof and blue trim identified the vessel. There’s a quirkiness to it that makes it feel special.

We met with its owner, Hans, who sat with us for a few hours talking about Amsterdam, all of the construction the city is under and things to do.

A former environmental economist, Hans filled us in on his city (which is now 52 percent foreigners), how he managed to build an addition to the boat (it requires some good luck and a sump pump), and what life was like from the water’s edge (his wife and daughter lived in it with him for 10 years).

It was the start to our best day in the city. Hanging out with locals is only the beginning to truly experience a city. Seeing how they live is the next step. And if you lived on a houseboat, you’re not giving up anything, you’re actually getting a lot more than any thing else in the city.

The Blue Wave is a touch south of the Jordan neighborhood and about a 15 minute walk from the Museum District. It’s quiet and ideal and even on a brisk November afternoon, we sat outside on the floating deck surrounded by plants and just enjoyed an afternoon in the sun. We were a pack of cigarettes and pitcher of martinis away from a perfect day.  Of course, sipping an Amstel, named after the river the canals connect to, is just as good.

The canals are the lifeblood of Amsterdam, they are the reason there is even a city, as they transformed the swamp and wetlands into usable land (that’s the original reason for the windmills). The canals were also the preferred route for people to get to and from the city. So sleeping on the gentle and slightly murky waters was a real way to connect to Amsterdam.

The actual Blue Wave home is beautiful, spacious and well appointed. It could accommodate more in a pinch. While the room you rent comes with a Euro 145 a night price tag  it’s quite reasonable. (Additionally, if you were to have a week long stay in Amsterdam, this would be an ideal base camp to launch your daily excursions.)

The single bathroom might be the one detriment if at the Blue Wave.

But still, there’s lots of space, including the great deck. There are also some gas heaters that will quickly warm up the place — though it feels like you’re starting a BBQ when you click the starter button.

The Blue Wave Bed and Breakfast experience is refreshing and comfortable. It provides a respite from the busy city and allows you to collect your thoughts. Not every moment away from home needs to be spent at museums or walking busy streets. The Blue Wave gives you time to digest all you’ve seen at the end of the day and prepare for the next one before heading out again. At night, you can even watch a DVD or cable TV or just relax. There’s also Wifi access so if you just have to check your email or upload a couple of pics or read this review.

It feels like a floating home away from home and no trip to Amsterdam would be as complete without it.