Brouwergracht is a very nice canal and close to the Central Station [5 minute walk] . As far as a canalboat to rent there are some...these are really floating apartments and in my opinion somewhat low ceilings and usually a bit dark. If the weather is good then sitting on the top of the canalboat is fun whilst watching the river traffic sail by. This is completely different than a bed and breakfast where you can have a room with breakfast. We rented a second floor apartment for 3 weeks on the Brouwersgracht and found it delightful. It had a small kitchen and queen bed with a shower/bathroom within the apartment. Great view and nearby restaurants and grocery stores. Depending on when you go and how long you stay the prices are different and negotiable. So much to do and not just in Amsterdam. We got our apartment through Trip Advisor and the description was right on. Our apartment was called "Canal View Apartment" 49 Brouwersgracht. Hope you find what you are looking for.