De Poezenboot, also known as “The Catboat,” is a floating animal sanctuary on a canal in Amsterdam. Established by Henriette van Weelde in 1966, the Cat Boat provides shelter for stray, sick, and abandoned cats and has since grown into an official charity.
Despite cats being known for avoiding water, the feline residents of this unique establishment appear to feel right at home. The houseboat has space for up to 50 cats at a time, with 14 permanent residents. While visitors are welcome to come and scratch a kitty behind the ears, many also come to adopt a new furry friend.
We visited the catboat sanctuary of Amsterdam back in the summer of 2018 while we explored the city from Canal House. As a self-proclaimed cat-lover couple, we knew we had to visit this unique sight and see how these cats live on the water!
Are you a cat lover looking for a unique experience in Amsterdam? Look no further than the Catboat! This floating feline sanctuary, also known as “De Poezenboot,” offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with cats while enjoying the picturesque canals of Amsterdam.
At the Catboat, you’ll find up to 50 cats at any given time, many of whom are available for adoption. Henriette van Weelde founded the sanctuary in 1966 as a home for stray, sick, and abandoned cats. Since then, it has grown into an official charity. The cats here are well-cared for by volunteers, and the money raised from donations goes toward helping Amsterdam’s feline population.
Donations from visitors keep the sanctuary afloat, with all funds raised going towards helping Amsterdam’s feline population. The Cat Boat Foundation pays for the neutering of cats whose owners cannot afford veterinary care, as well as strays. Many volunteers care for the cats, some of whom find new homes with visitors. Despite living on a boat, the cats adjust well to their new homes on land.
Visitors are welcome to come aboard and interact with the cats. Not only will you get to pet and play with these adorable creatures, but you’ll also be supporting a great cause. The Catboat Foundation pays for neutering cats whose owners cannot afford the veterinary care and strays. Your visit helps ensure that the cats receive the care they need while they wait for their forever homes.
To visit the Catboat, head to the Singel Canal in central Amsterdam. The sanctuary is open daily from 1 pm to 3 pm. This floating animal sanctuary is a somewhat popular attraction, so be prepared to wait in line during peak hours. It didn’t happen to us, but keep that in mind if that is the case for you.
Admission is free, but donations are encouraged to support the cats and the Catboat Foundation’s efforts, especially now that a new Catboat is coming!
The Catboat is a unique and charming attraction in Amsterdam that’s perfect for cat lovers. By visiting the sanctuary, you’ll not only have an unforgettable experience, but you’ll also be supporting a great cause. Take your chance to meet these adorable felines and help make a difference in their lives!
Discovering the Catboat Sanctuary of Amsterdam
Singel 38 /G, 1015 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands
