For those seriously
considering owning and operating their own barge in Europe, Roger Van Dyken leads week
long skipper training cruises aboard "Vertrouwen". Although these cruises are a wonderful vacation, their
essence is a
rigorous curriculum that focuses on hands-on barge handling techniques, effects of torque,
stopping and turning, rules of the road, how to counter effects of side wind, anchoring,
mooring techniques, where and how to purchase barges, operation of equipment aboard, what
is and what is not essential equipment, operation of locks, and many other essential
skills. Graduates receive a Barge Skipper Certificate (indicates proficiency, but is not a
"license", prepares you for the French and Dutch tests. Note that each country
administers the test only in its own language.). Cost is $2950 per couple, or $2700 per
single person, plus transportation and food. Includes 7 nights aboard, instruction, fuel
and moorage.
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