All aboard: Seven quirky houseboats to try this year in London

But London is home to a plethora of hidden gems, making the capital the perfect city for a 'staycation' this year.

Why not try a more adventurous mini-break in 2022 and stay on one of the capital's beautiful houseboats, available through Airbnb?

Zip along Regent's Canal in a cosy longboat or feel like royalty in a luxury sailing boat moored overlooking Tower Bridge.

1. Traditional Narrowboat, Regent's Canal

This traditional narrowboat allows holidaymakers to explore the Regent's Canal (Image: Airbnb)

This long traditional narrowboat promises a "rustic" and "romantic" stay, complete with a wood burner and even a piano.

The boat has a separate living room, bedroom, kitchen and bathroom, and pets and children are welcome.

Prices start at £99 per night; this boat can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/3hfrejjd

2. IANA Sailing Boat, St Katherine Docks

The IANA Sailing Boat is moored at St Katherine Docks, Tower Hamlets (Image: Airbnb)

This rustic sailing boat in Tower Hamlets overlooks Tower Bridge.

Complete with a telly and toilet, the pint-sized IANA is an affordable alternative to a city hotel.

Prices start at £85 per night; this boat can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/2p8d27xe

Charming Narrowboat, Clapton

This beautiful narrowboat has plenty of outside space to enjoy (Image: Airbnb)

This canal boat is full of "character and charm", sleeping up to four on a bed and sofa-bed.

The boat has been recently renovated, with a tiled kitchen, full bathroom and a spacious deck area with a table and chairs.

Prices start at £110 per night; this boat can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/mry2kj38

Rustic Yacht, Tower Bridge

This rustic yacht offers the perfect London getaway (Image: Airbnb)

This 36ft yacht moored near Tower Bridge offers the perfect getaway for parents and kids.

The homely décor includes hanging plants, padded benches and a kitchenette. Guests have praised owner Robert for his excellent hosting.

Prices start at £150 per night; this boat can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/yc693zeb

Eco Canal Boat, Victoria Park

This eco canal boat on Regent's Canal is good for the family and the planet (Image: Airbnb)

Why not try an eco off-grid experience this year?

This environmentally-conscious boat gets it electricity from solar panels on the roof.

There is a rooftop seating area, barbeque and board games, ensuring entertainment for all seasons.

Prices start from £88 per night; this boat can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/v6xbpj5y

Super Yacht, Canary Wharf

Sleep like royalty in central London (Image: Airbnb)

For large groups, the Absolute Pleasure is the perfect riverside stay.

This luxury yacht sleeps 10 in five bedrooms, and has plenty of outdoor space to enjoy.

The yacht includes a bar, entertainment centre with a 50 inch flat screen television and VIP double cabin en-suite.

Prices start at £2,571 per night; this yacht can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/mpnraxvn

This super yacht promises a luxury London break (Image: Airbnb)

Historic Houseboat, Tower Hamlets

This historic houseboat is set over multiple floors (Image: Airbnb)

Make your nautical dreams come true with the St Alexander - stay in the captain's cabin, enjoy solid oak features and a drift off on a memory foam mattress.

Built in 1945, the boat transported cargo and troops between ships while at sea.

Prices start at £250 per night; this boat can be booked at: https://tinyurl.com/2p8yemk5