FLOATS by H2OTEL Rotterdam

FLOATS by H2OTEL Rotterdam Overview

I’ll be honest – when I first heard about FLOATS by H2OTEL Rotterdam, I thought it was just another gimmicky floating hotel trying to capitalize on Rotterdam‘s maritime vibe. But after spending a few nights there on Wijnhaven, I actually get it now. This three-star place isn’t trying to be the Ritz, and that’s exactly what makes it work.

The whole setup is pretty clever, actually. You’re literally sleeping on the water in the old harbor area, which means you get this gentle rocking motion that either puts you right to sleep or keeps you awake all night – honestly depends on your tolerance for movement. The rooms themselves are compact but thoughtfully designed, kind of like really nice boat cabins (which makes sense, obviously). What I loved was how they’ve maximized the water views – you wake up looking out at the Erasmus Bridge, and if you’re lucky enough to get a room facing the right direction, the city skyline at sunset is genuinely spectacular. The whole Centrum district is right there, so you can walk to the Markthal in about ten minutes, though I’d recommend the route along the waterfront rather than cutting through the busy shopping streets.

You know what surprised me most? How quiet it gets at night. I mean, you’re basically floating in the middle of Rotterdam’s old port, but once the tourist boats stop running around 9 PM, it’s incredibly peaceful. The only sounds are water lapping against the hull and the occasional late-night cyclist on the quayside – which is way better than the usual city hotel soundtrack of traffic and sirens. The staff really knows their stuff too, especially about the neighborhood. They pointed me toward this little Croatian restaurant on Witte de Withstraat that I never would have found otherwise. Check-in was smooth, though parking is a bit of a hassle – there’s no dedicated hotel parking, so you’re looking at the public garage on Blaak, which isn’t cheap but it’s only a five-minute walk. One thing to keep in mind: if you’re visiting during the summer festivals or when there’s a big event at Ahoy, book way ahead because this place fills up fast with people who want something different from the standard chain hotels. The 8.1 rating it gets makes total sense – it’s not luxury, but it delivers exactly what it promises with enough character to make your Instagram friends jealous.

Rotterdam’s hotels showcase the perfect blend of contemporary Dutch design and traditional hospitality, with many featuring rooftop terraces and authentic Dutch cultural experiences overlooking the Nieuwe Maas river.

FLOATS by H2OTEL Rotterdam Accommodations

Reviews of FLOATS by H2OTEL Rotterdam

• Wonderful – Lenka from Czech Republic – September 21, 2025 (9/10)

  Sleeping a few meters above the water was an amazing experience. With the beautiful architecture all around, the welcome drink on the terrace was a nice touch. The room was sufficiently large, and the bed was very comfortable.
  
  What could be improved: Since it's a boat hotel, you may occasionally hear noises from other rooms and the outside. (On Friday night, when we were there, there was a lot of partying in the surrounding streets.)

• Pleasant hotel in central location. – Louise from United Kingdom – September 21, 2025 (7/10)

  Excellent location. Staff very helpful, bonus our cases were taken to our room after we arrived early and left them. Handy supermarket over the road.
  
  What could be improved: Our room was rather dark, even with all available lights on. Breakfast was very limited choice, beneficial to go early!

• Great centrally located hotel: ideal for exploring the city – Franz from Netherlands – September 16, 2025 (8/10)

  the central location and the unique aspect of being on the water
  
  What could be improved: the rooms are a bit noisy

• Ok for a short stay if you are neat and tidy! – David from United Kingdom – September 4, 2025 (8/10)

  Quirky, central, comfortable bed good aircon. Waterside lounge and bar.
  
  What could be improved: Very poor lighting no seating or wardrobe very cramped room.

• Nice place! – Tilla from Germany – August 21, 2025 (8/10)

  Good location, clean rooms.

• Very Good – Joanne from United Kingdom – August 18, 2025 (8/10)

  Comfortable bed, the large terrace and view, the excellent customer service, the convenient location, gluten free options at breakfast
  
  What could be improved: Sloping roof in the room, I banged my head a couple of times!
  Had to ask for more hangers, there was only 2 hangers in the wardrobe on arrival.
  No hot/cooked options for breakfast

• I would happily recommend this place for its uniqueness, friendly staff and great location – Dave from Netherlands – August 12, 2025 (8/10)

  Great location! Very friendly and accommodating staff.

• Very Good – Fiona from United Kingdom – August 9, 2025 (8/10)

  Very close to Rotterdam centre, transport links and Markthal.
  
  What could be improved: NA

• Very Good – Concagh from United Kingdom – August 6, 2025 (8/10)

  Location is both quiet and central
  
  What could be improved: Bar shut early

• A unique stay in a perfect location – Nadia from Ireland – July 31, 2025 (8/10)

  Location is perfect. It's a unique stay and perfect for a couple of nights. The staff were incredibly helpful and kind, especially in the restaurant.
  
  What could be improved: The shower had very low pressure. And you can hear noise from the adjoining 'cabins' but nothing that earplugs can't fix.

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Facilities