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 inland waterways weren't just water—they were 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. Daniël found himself taking over this 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 Europe's inland waterways, navigating complex river 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 while navigating Europe's inland waterways requires a special kind of dedication. Through satellite internet connections and countless video calls from various river ports across Europe, Daniël maintained close oversight of his Czech retreat. He learned to read profit and loss statements between reading inland navigation charts, and to handle guest complaints while managing challenging river conditions.