A personal word from Bart and Peter
A connection both ashore and at sea
Peter and Bart both joined Rivertech in 2022, each on a different ship. But in 2023, during a kick-off event where they renewed their safety certificates, they ended up in the same training group. “That’s where our friendship began,” Peter recalls. Shortly after, Bart transferred to the Spirit of the Rhine, where Peter was already stationed, and their onboard collaboration took off.
Since 2024, they’ve been sharing the wheelhouse of the Amaprima. And it’s working out brilliantly. “We’ve found a rhythm that suits us both,” Bart explains. “We often switch shifts around 4 a.m., and we’ve made clear agreements about our working hours. It’s a great system – we know exactly what we can expect from one another.”
From cargo to cruising
Both men come from the world of freight shipping – Peter spent fifteen years on cargo ships, Bart on tankers. Switching to passenger cruises turned out to be a breath of fresh air.
Peter: “I wanted to try something different, see what working with guests was like. And I stuck around. There’s so much more to it than just sailing: you’re managing a floating hotel and leading a large, international crew. That really surprised me in a positive way. And I sail two weeks on, two weeks off – which I see as a real perk. I’ve got a wife at home too,” Peter adds with a grin. “You have to be able to dock there properly as well.”
Bart adds: “I love variety. On the Rhine, Moselle and Main you pass so many different places – it never gets boring. And managing a team of various nationalities has taught me a lot. Especially not to be *too* Dutch – a bit more patience goes a long way. It’s made me a calmer leader.”
Sailing with vision
In addition to their work as captains, both men are actively involved in the future of Rivertech. Bart is part of the company’s think tank. “I have a different perspective compared to some of the more seasoned colleagues. I see real opportunities in technology – saving fuel with trackpilots, improving safety with smart systems. Automation where it makes sense, without losing the human touch.”
Peter agrees: “We want to grow together, both on board and as a company. Better sailing through better teamwork.”
Balance between work and fun
Peter and Bart’s bond goes beyond the bridge. In their free time, they hang out regularly. “We’ve been on skiing trips together, had lunch, and I’m planning to ride my jet ski to Dordrecht soon,” Bart says. “The fact that we get along so well says a lot about the trust and fun we share,” Peter adds.
Are you our next Captain?
Whether you come from the cargo world or have earned your stripes elsewhere – with us, you’ll have the chance to combine your skills at the helm with leadership, adventure, and true teamwork. Just like Peter and Bart.
