It’s summer time and what could be better than a trip to a B&B?  How about a stay on a floating B&B?  Imagine cool sea breezes and the gentle rocking of the sea inside a beautifully appointed Boat, Bed and Breakfast?  You’ll find floating B&Bs from Arizona to Amsterdam, many offering distinctive accommodations and even cocktails at sea! 

Boston Yacht Haven - patio view

Read on to learn more about these floating B&Bs.  For complete information about themed B&Bs, the best resource is BedandBreakfast.com, the most comprehensive B&B directory and reservation network world wide.  Here you’ll find everything from family-friendly to pet friendly to couple-friendly B&Bs, with plenty of special offers and packages too.  While some of these inns and B&Bs are actual ships or yachts, for landlubbers, there are a number with nautical themes too.

When the sun comes out, Americans flock to the water in search of cool breezes and nautical surroundings. B&B getaway or luxury cruise? Now, B&B-goers can experience the best of both worlds - boats, berths and breakfasts - all in one. Come on board we offer this list of "boatiful" maritime-themed B&B getaways. Generally, the floating B&Bs are offered as private one-party accommodations docked wharfside. Some make boating excursions available for an additional fee.

Captain's Inn at Moss Landing, Moss Landing, CA: Originally built in 1906 as the Pacific Coast Steamship Co, this inn and its new luxury dockhouse are decorated in whimsical seaside and nautical antique themes. While you may not rock with the waves, you'll sleep in a boat; actual working sailboats, canoes, fishing boats, row boats and whaling skiffs have been crafted into beds in the inn's dockhouse guestrooms. In the Sail Away Room, the bedposts are masts, the curtains are made from a spinnaker sail, the desk is an upturned stern, and the bed sits on the bow, all made from a Little Quick 505 sailboat.

Boston Yacht Haven, Boston, MA: "Marineiacs" drawn by the lure of a marina but not the rock and roll of the sea will find the perfect alternative here. The post-and-beam boathouse rooms have all the trappings of a prestigious yacht club and the distinctiveness of some of the finest hotels in the city. Built on a wharf overlooking the harbor, marina and city, several suites have large private balconies overlooking the harbor for private patio dining. For the ultimate seaside getaway, book the Penthouse Suite with a 180-degree view of the city and marina. USA Today named Boston Yacht Haven the #1 B&B for business travelers in 2007, given its great proximity to Boston and fabulous setting.

Golden Slipper - Boston's B&B Afloat, Lewis Wharf, Boston, MA: Boston's original floating B&B, this 1960 Chris Craft is located in the heart of historic Boston, within walking distance to Faneuil Hall, The Freedom Trail, and Little Italy. This private boat accommodates up to four people at a secure locked marina. A continental breakfast is left upon your arrival, and unless a private catered dinner for four or more is requested, the owner - a private charter chef - is not on board. It's perfect for everyone, from families visiting Boston's sites to romantic couples seeking a unique getaway. Private boat charters of America's first boatbuilding area on the North and South Rivers are also available.

Bed and Breakfast Afloat c/o Constitution Marina, Boston MA: Constitution Marina offers overnight dockside charters on luxury yachts and sailboats at their onboard bed and breakfast. Stay aboard a choice of luxury yachts, with full access to the marina's harborside while taking in some of the best views of Boston's inner harbor and downtown skyline. Conveniently located on the historic Freedom Trail, it's just a five minute walk to North End restaurants, public transportation, and the new Fleet Center. Voted "Best Marina in Boston" by Boston Magazine, these floating B&Bs offer luxury accommodations at rates less far less than most downtown hotels. 

Marston Family B&B, Hyannis Port, MA: This Cape Cod-style home of a former deep-water mariner is totally nautical in theme. Hosting one family at a time, the B&B's three-bedroom cottage is decorated with seafaring memorabilia and antique ship art work. The innkeeper is a USCG licensed boat captain experienced in operating sailboat excursions in Hyannis for over 20 years. Guests are invited aboard the inn's 34-foot Catboat Eventide for a free sailing excursion.

Boat & Breakfast on the Pintita, Baltimore, MD: This 45-foot sailing ketch offers overnight boat and breakfast accommodations at historic Fell's Point, including a gourmet breakfast. The Pintita accommodates up to four people in two air-conditioned staterooms, each with a private head (bathroom). Located within walking distance to Baltimore's Inner Harbor, this boat and breakfast offers wonderful on-water accommodations. Add a private two-hour sunset sail for an additional fee. B&B rates: $200-300.

Lake George Boathouse Bed and Breakfast, Bolton Landing NY: Built in 1917 as the summer home of speed boat racer and gold cup recipient George Reis, the term "boathouse" does not do this B&B justice. While it's still a boathouse, it's been completely renovated and now fits in well on Millionaires Row, offering breathtaking views of Lake George from its private porches. You will feel like you've been on a cruise without ever leaving shore. B&B rates: $175-400.

Motoryacht Southern Comfort, Charleston, SC: Calling themselves a "berth and breakfast," this floating B&B offers more than 2,300 square feet of living space on a 61-foot classic Hatteras motoryacht. Each of the three guest staterooms, including a private head, is decorated with scenes from Charleston's nautical past. Located just three blocks from the famous Charleston Battery and Rainbow Row at Charleston City Marina, use the onboard bikes to tour the fabulous and historic downtown Charleston. From December through April, the B&B goes to sea, and the same floating B&B is based in Green Turtle Cay, Bahamas.

Lucky Piper Houseboat Apartment, Amsterdam, Netherlands: Found along the Zeeburgerpad, near the Funen windmill and the 'het Ij' microbrewery, this houseboat apartment is the perfect way to experience riverside accommodations. Two decks offer a choice of sun or shade throughout the day along with tables, chairs and an outdoor fireplace. The generous-sized heated kitchen and living room combined with the two bedrooms accommodate up to six people, and the two TVs with 32-channels will keep kids happy. Public transportation into Amsterdam is three minutes away.
 

So, whatever floats your boat, you’ll find some distinctive B&Bs right on the water…and in some cases, in the water too.  Visit www.BedandBreakfast.com for complete information and links to these wonderful Boat & Breakfasts.

Boston Yacht Haven - aerial view

Marti Mayne is the B&B Editor for WanderingEducators.com