«What fascinates me is the interplay of nature and technology»

René Goetschi is head captain on the MS Attila. With his fascination for shipping, and for the Boutique Boatel ATTILA in particular, he delights and inspires our guests. In this interview, René told us what he especially loves about his work as a captain and where he sees parallels with his hobby, beekeeping.

René, you’ve been a captain on various ships for 10 years. What fascinates you about shipping and about your job? And about the MS Attila in particular?

Water is my favourite element and shipping has captivated me for a long time. My grandmother lived near the «Schiff» hotel in Murten. Even as a child I watched the boats come and go.

In the captain’s profession, it’s the interplay of nature and technology that fascinates me. Every trip brings many special moments and ever-new challenges to master. No day is the same as the last. Nature in all its variety, as well as contact with the guests, enrich and fulfil me.

I know the MS Attila from the time when she was still a cargo ship and party boat. The ship has a special aura. Today the MS Attila is elegant and shines in new splendour. For me it’s a joy to be able to steer her.

You’re a captain and, on the side, a beekeeper. What does beekeeping have in common with shipping?

My 10 bee colonies have to be handled, tended and cared for with great care. Whether there’s a good harvest depends on many factors. The closeness to nature, the many facets of bee life — this insight and this dialogue are exciting and invigorating.

As a captain, I look after the ship and the guests. People book our trips and expect an unforgettable experience. Here, too, a connection to nature and the unexpected are decisive factors. Unlike beekeeping, where much cannot be influenced, on the MS Attila I can help ensure the guests have a unique experience.

What do you particularly enjoy about the MS Attila’s routes?

I love the view from the ship, across the water to the land. On large cruise ships that sail the seas, it’s different. Often you see nothing but a lot of «nothing» for hours.

On our routes there are wonderful things to see. Our guests have countless opportunities to watch animals, landscapes and villages and capture them with photo and film cameras. The view from the deck of the MS Attila is harmonious, incomparable and unique in the region.

Our voyages stand out for their variety. Ashore, a visit to the BirdLife nature centre La Sauge and to the Laténium, Switzerland’s largest archaeology museum, are among my favourites — places our guests often don’t know. A visit to a local winemaker is always a highlight. The passage of the Thielle bridge is also impressive: there it’s «heads down» when our ship passes.

Why should someone book a cruise with you as captain?

I care about the well-being of the guests and, together with the ship’s crew, help to give travellers an unforgettable experience. Guests can watch me at every manoeuvre and so feel the magic of gliding on the water. I’m happy to share my joy and fascination for shipping with our guests. When captain, crew and guests share enjoyable moments in dialogue with one another, it’s a win for everyone.