Settle into the 5-star Andaz Amsterdam Prinsengracht, located in a former public library that has been completely renovated to the highest standards. The long list of amenities, however, does include an intimate library, as well as a spa, fitness center, bar and restaurant. And, the location is fantastic - overlooking the centrally located Prinsengracht within the canal ring.

After a rich breakfast, board your private boat on the hotel's doorstep. With an endless selection of cruise operators and more canals than Venice to choose from, Drift Away provides tailored service in solar-powered boats. The captain and hostess are on hand to show you Amsterdam's attractions. Ask to cruise the Herengracht, Kaizersgracht and the Red Light District for stunning views. 

If being on a boat all morning is getting the better of you, ask the captain to sail to the junction of the Brouwersgracht and Herengracht canals. 

Disembark and grab some lunch at the beautiful De Belhamel, a romantic French-Italian inspired restaurant. The Langoustine mousse with wild scallop and Saffron dressing is a good option for a light lunch as well as the Tagliatelle with monkfish in a cherry tomato sauce if you are in need of something more substantial. There is also a good selection of wines and Champagne on the menu.

With lunch out of the way and back on board, get sailing to the Prinsengracht - the third and most outlying of Amsterdam's three main canals. You destination is the Houseboat Museum to experience what life would be like on an original houseboat.

Back on your spacious private solar-powered luxury oasis, head to the romantic Magere Brug - or Skinny Bridge on the Amstel. It is very popular with couples and photographers and became a symbol of the many bridges and canals in the city. From your own deck you'll have a spectacular view from an usual angle.

Next stop is the Plantage Muidergracht, a beautiful park on the water's edge just east of the city center. Stroll towards the Artisplein and the Artis Royal Zoo, a combination of public park, zoo and museum, with a wonderful cafe-restaurant in the historic Ledenlokalen building on Plantage Kerklaan. This is a perfect spot for afternoon coffee and cake.

Take in the spectacular sunset back onboard before docking at the hotel, where a long bath and massage can be booked in its state-of-the-art spa. 

For dinner, if you have asked your private boat captain to be waiting outside, head to the Supperclub Cruise at De Ruijterkade for a 4-course dinner served on oversized white beds. DJs and performances encourage an experimental vibe, and the cocktails here will keep you entertained until the early hours of the morning. 

If your poor crew has been allowed to stand down and go home by now, grab a cab which will take just under 10 minutes to bring you back safely to the hotel.