A great Berlin river café boat floating on the river Spree which underpins the fabric of Berlin’s cityscape and has more bridges in this landlocked capital than in Venice. Originally built as a goods carrier in 1914 then converted to a houseboat in 1972, Van Loon eventually became a restaurant/café in 1988. The boat takes its name from the famous Dutch boat builder, Nicolaos Van Loon. When weather permits, the open top deck is a great place to enjoy a leisurely breakfast (served until 3pm) on this quiet stretch of the river. Summer brunch cruises can also be booked on sister restaurant boat Phillipa. During the long winter months, guests seek shelter in the cosy cabin below lit only by wall lamps fashioned from coffee cups. Late night marauders arrive for the cheese board served after 11pm. Successfully resisting the tourist trap mould, Van Loon has the character of a local caff.