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)