Capitaine Peniche (PRIVATE BARGE)

• Location: France – Inland waterways (base: Saint-Jean-de-Losne)
• Vessel: Private barge, approx. 30 metres
• Contract type: Fixed-term – 6 months
• Start date: 1 April
• Navigation period: June to October (canals & rivers)
• Accommodation: Live-aboard provided
• Couple preferred: Captain + Partner (Cook / Housekeeper)

Role summary

Private owner seeks an experienced inland waterways captain (Capitaine fluvial / Marinier) to operate and manage a 30 m private barge on French canals and navigable rivers. The role is seasonal, with preparation, maintenance and fitting-out in spring, followed by active cruising from June through October.

A partner couple is strongly preferred, where the second person acts as cook / housekeeper / general support during navigation periods.

Captain – Key Responsibilities

• Safe navigation of a 30 m inland vessel on French canals & rivers
• Passage planning, lock operations, mooring, and berthing
• Daily vessel checks and routine maintenance
• Oversight of onboard systems (engine, electrics, water, basic hydraulics)
• Liaison with VNF, ports, marinas, and service providers
• Compliance with inland navigation rules and safety requirements
• Assistance with seasonal preparation (April–May) and lay-up planning (October)

Partner Role – Cook / Housekeeper

• Meal preparation (simple, fresh onboard cooking)
• Interior housekeeping & laundry
• Guest support (occasional visitors)
• Assistance with lines, locks, and deck work as needed

(This is a private household role, not a commercial hospitality operation.)

Required Qualifications (Captain)

• Valid inland waterways qualification recognised in France (e.g. Permis fluvial / Certificat de capacité / Patente de batellerie or EU equivalent)
• Proven experience on inland barges (25–40 m)
• Strong familiarity with French canal systems (Freycinet & larger gabarits)
• Ability to work independently and responsibly on a private vessel
• French language useful; working English acceptable

Contract & Conditions

• Fixed-term contract: 1 April – approx. 30 September / October
• Live-aboard accommodation included
• Private-use vessel (non-commercial)
• Competitive remuneration commensurate with experience
• Fuel, berthing and operational costs covered by owner

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Experienced professional inland captain, not yacht-sector
• Calm, safety-focused, mechanically sympathetic
• Comfortable working directly with a private owner
• Couple experienced in live-aboard canal life

Application

Please provide:

• Short CV (navigation experience & vessel sizes)
• Copies of inland navigation qualifications
• Availability confirmation for 1 April start
• References (preferred)