The “Yellow Ferry” is a historic ferry boat in Sausalito, Calif., that’s been transformed into an unforgettable Airbnb houseboat. It was recently spotlighted on the Netflix series “The World’s Most Amazing Vacation Rentals,” and if you haven’t seen it yet, you’re in for a treat.
The eye-catching floating home perfectly fits into this eclectic community. Most here are self-employed, with lots of writers, artists, photographers, filmmakers, sculptors, and painters, sharing the docks with lawyers, physicians, and executives. It’s a fabulous somewhat-Bohemian delight that’s all the better experienced in a stylish boat.
Formerly known as The Spirit of Seattle, the “Yellow Ferry” is the oldest surviving wooden ferry on the west coast. The boat was built in 1888 with the sole purpose of ferrying passengers across Puget Sound, but was moved south to the Sacramento-San Joaquin delta in the inland estuaries and straits in Northern California before ultimately being decommissioned, renamed, and painted yellow.
While it’s managed to retain hints from yesteryear with 120-year-old wooden beams and timbers, it’s been lovingly remodeled with luxuries and convenience — making it one of the best houseboat Airbnbs in America. There’s a very spacious living room with wooden flooring, a log fire, and enormous sofas. In the solarium you can dig into a good book while basking in the sunlight, while the well-stocked kitchen is ideal for making your own gourmet meals.
The two gorgeous bedrooms both provide jaw-dropping panoramic views. From the master, there’s a giant window that showcases an immense wooden paddle wheel. From the king-size bed, you’ll be able to peek between the spokes where you might spot a cormorant floating along the still waters of the bay estuary. Or perhaps watch the harbor seals soaking up the morning sun from an offshore pontoon while pelicans stand atop mooring posts on the piers.
Guests enjoy plenty to do right here with complimentary kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and a canoe all provided for paddling around the bay.
A stay here is truly the destination in itself, but it also makes for a fabulous base for anyone who wants to enjoy a tranquil oasis on the water and easy access to the city. The Golden Gate Bridge that travels into the heart of San Francisco is just minutes away. If you don’t want to drive, you can simply hop on the Sausalito Ferry boat that takes passengers to and from the city. The redwoods and scenic hiking trails in Muir Woods National Monument are just a short drive away too.
Don’t miss exploring Sausalito, with its fun downtown filled with unique shops, galleries, and lots of outstanding eateries. The community of houseboats is a popular place to see, with tours led by a local guide on Saturdays and Sundays. You’ll be able to take advantage of many Instagrammable shots with the docks lined with colorful flowers and incredible works of art.
At the end of the day, you’ll appreciate being able to come back to this unique and comfortable space, perhaps hanging out on the 800-square-foot deck watching a jaw-dropping sunset over the water. Cap it all off with a soak in the gorgeous clawfoot tub, ideally while sipping a glass of wine. It really doesn’t get much better than this!
The Historic Ferryboat
Prices & Photos
Sausalito, California
