Ms Vitalis – Fam Bouman

Hidden behind the ‘security threshold’ of Eurochem Antwerp. Fog and steam from installations change the journey to quay 713 into an adventure. Then suddenly the barge Vitalis  emerges out of the fog.  Observing the world from the luxury of the wheelhouse, it looks quite peaceful.

In the middle of the name Vitalis is the Latin word ‘ Vita’ (life), precisely the reason why Dirk and Nel Bouman gave the term’ lively’ to their barge. Together they make a great team!  Both have a’ the glass is half full’ mind set. Dirk is a straightforward person.

When leaving a Dutch or Belgian port for a trip to Germany, it needs to be done the quickest way.  Always in a kind of rush.

However, when going on holiday, stress and the need to hurry are not part of their luggage.

This may be different on board if, for example, it has been agreed to load early the next morning, but due to  a crane failure, they could not start at that time.

This creates frequent communication with Nautica by phone. According to their information, it would   be going to be all right.

Dirk Bouman says to himself:  ‘’remain calm’’ and in the meantime he looks at the cargo with an unfailing gaze, but at five o’ clock there are still about 100 tons left…

How did it end?

Capt Bouman: ‘’I have to say, they arranged it by means of overtime. Usually it looks ok, but there is sometimes a difference between ‘being on site’ and ‘assumptions at a distance “.

How long has the Nautica flag been flying in the mast?

The sustainability of our relationship with Nautica has lasted 21 years and that is quite significant!

We have known René Nouwen since the Nedlloyd era.

At that time, he asked us to join him at Nautica Binnenscheepvaart BV.

Having a good relationship with your charterer will determine your job satisfaction. Knowing each other well is an important part of this. Both Zwijndrecht and Mainz offices are solid, cooperative and when necessary, they come and see us.

Transport has many aspects. In ‘good times as well as in bad times’ all parties involved need to agree and that is how business is done.

Do you have a favourite sailing route?

We like to go to Mannheim (Germany, return to Friesland (Netherlands) while being loaded with gravel for example, then spend some quality time ashore or paint a bit.

What should a maritime website tell us?

Besides the fact that it should be original and representative, it is more important that you learn something about the origin of but also about the people who work there. You have to read between the lines if it could be a ‘’club’’ for you to join.

The’ Bouman company ‘ started at a “spits” (small barge with 365 T capacity) , followed by 3 bigger barges in a row and now they own  this 110 metres barge with a capacity of 3225 T.

Two efficient deckhands ensure that barge Vitalis is well maintained and looks in great shape.

Dirk Bouman states:  “Working on my own, without my wife on board, just wouldn’t work and would also be less enjoyable.  We hope that the idea of registering anonymously and trying to get work via an ‘’app’’ will never become reality for us.