The boatman works on rivers and canals, transporting goods on his vessel. This highly varied profession combines technical tasks, such as steering and operating the boat, with commercial and administrative duties to manage the business. Most small-scale river transport businesses are family-run enterprises.

Qualities and skills

• Independence
• Adaptability and versatility
• Availability and flexibility
• Good interpersonal skills (particularly for tourism-related work)
• Patience
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Carrying out technical, commercial or administrative tasks
• Directing and supervising loading and unloading operations
• Assist with all repair and maintenance work on the boat
• Monitoring the supply of fuel, provisions and equipment
• Implement health and safety measures
• Keep accounts of income and expenditure

Education and training requirements

One year of higher education: Professional Certificate in River Transport Management

Two years of higher education (Bac + 2): Higher National Diploma (BTS) in Logistics and International Transport, specialising in river transport

To become a craft boatman, you must hold an ACP (Certificate of Professional Competence), which can be obtained from the age of 18 either through equivalence with a higher specialised qualification in transport, through professional equivalence gained whilst working for a transport company, or by passing an examination.

Furthermore, to operate a vessel, you must hold a specific licence known as the ‘certificate for the operation of commercial vessels’.

Sectors and companies

They generally work on a self-employed basis as the owner of their own vessel. As a boatman or riverboat crew member, they may also work for a river transport company. In this case, work is carried out in shifts, with a schedule depending on the type of vessel (every 7 days on average).

Source: LH PORT CENTER – Further information at www.lhportcenter.com