By Todd Stein

Here's a new meaning for water bed—sleeping aboard boats docked in harbors along the West Coast. Some provide breakfast; some don't.

Brass Bell Floating Bed & Breakfast Victoria, B.C. Float back to the 1930s and '40s aboard charming, restored wooden power yachts the Thalia Bee and Dreamboat in Victoria Harbour. $126—$149. (250) 708-0301.

California Cruisin' Boat & Breakfast San Diego. The boats of this B&B sit in San Diego Bay, near the Sheraton Hotel & Marina, where guests receive a 20 percent discount on food and beverages and free use of the pool and Jacuzzi. Choose from five motor yachts 42 to 55 feet. $225—$325. (800) 449-2248.

Dockside Boat and Bed San Francisco, Oakland, and Long Beach, Calif. The largest and oldest boat-and-breakfast outfit in the West features a fleet of yachts to fit every need, from romantic getaways to practical family vacations. All three sites are close to major tourist attractions: San Francisco's Pier 39, Oakland's Jack London Square, and Long Beach's Rainbow Harbor. $125—$500. (800) 436-2574.

Harbor Vacations Club San Diego Located next to the Sheraton San Diego in Marina Cortez, this B&B accommodates guests on seven yachts from 32 to 55 feet. $189—$269. (800) 922-4836.

Lighthall Yacht Charters Santa Cruz, Calif. Lighthall boats from 30 to 42 feet, parked in the Santa Cruz Yacht Harbor, offer a taste of ocean life. $90—$300. (831) 429-1970.