Our Story

Daniël Zuiddam's story begins in the vibrant port city of Rotterdam, where the sound of ship horns and the sight of towering cranes were as familiar as the morning coffee. Born into a family with deep maritime roots, Daniël grew up understanding that the sea wasn't just water—it was opportunity, adventure, and a way of life.

In 2012, life presented Daniël with an unexpected opportunity. His father, who had been running Hotel Kapitán, decided it was time to pass the torch. At just 26, Daniël found himself the owner of a charming lakeside hotel in the Czech Republic—a world away from the industrial harbors of his homeland, yet somehow perfectly aligned with his adventurous spirit.

For over a decade, Daniël lived a dual life that most people could only dream of. By day (and often night), he commanded vessels across the world's oceans, navigating complex shipping routes and managing international crews. But his heart was also anchored to the tranquil shores of Lake Seč, where Hotel Kapitán awaited his return.

Managing a hotel from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean requires a special kind of dedication. Through satellite internet connections and countless video calls from various ports around the globe, Daniël maintained close oversight of his Czech retreat. He learned to read profit and loss statements between reading maritime charts, and to handle guest complaints while handling 20-foot swells.