Meet Panache Captain, Florian Rother

How long have you worked for EW?

My first season was in 2012. Other than a two-year hiatus, I’ve been working for European Waterways ever since!

Is it how you expected it to be?

As I’ve learned from my partner, Judith, how work and life on a barge is, I can say it is more-or-less as expected, but the intensity of working and living together with the rest of the crew is something we all have to adapt to

What was your very first job?

For my first job, I worked in a factory as a summer job. However, my first job on a barge was as a host

How did you get started in this line of work?

I started to work in hospitality around 2009 and had various experiences as a barman. The managing part came probably from organising various occasions as an events manager

What are you most proud of about working for EW?

European Waterways is truly an international company which brings together so many different people (guests and crew) and helps to overcome barriers

What do you like about being Captain?

It never gets boring!

Favourite region to cruise in?

A question we get asked by the guests all the time. I do like a number of regions European Waterways cruises in, but if I had to pick one, it would be The Netherlands. It is so different to barging in France, much more condensed. In France it would be probably Alsace – the best of two countries!

First and last thing you do onboard?

First of all, I check the water tank to see if there’s enough water! When leaving the barge at the end of the season, I’ll write a lovely note for the maintenance team to assist in winter maintenance

What makes your barge unique?

I think the design of the barge (its interior) is absolutely by far one of the best in the fleet. You always have the feeling it is incredibly spacious

Do you live on a boat?

No, we have an apartment

Where did you grow up?

In East Germany (former GDR), in the region of the Harz Mountains

Do you miss any home comforts?

Probably seeing my friends whenever I’d like to

How do you spend your time when you’re not working?

Travelling of course, and also working on a series of audio projects – a passion of mine!

What would you do if you weren't a barge Captain?

I’m quite sure I would be working in the audio-visual industry, because that’s what I studied and spent a lot of time in my life with

Meet Captain Florian aboard Panache