Hello Pfeiffer family,
My trip was a cracking one.
I’d expected to travel up and down the Rhine, to Rotterdam and God knows where else. Instead, we chugged back and forth between Duisburg and Dortmund. I’d have been quicker on my bike, haha.
Between 5 am and 8 am, the route is absolutely lovely. Fog, sunrise, sleepy herons, fresh air and peace and quiet. After that, it wasn’t quite as great – it stinks and is quite dusty. But the locks are really exciting, especially the one in Duisburg – I think it’s leaking a bit. I was even allowed to tie the mooring lines on and off.
I also found the port of Duisburg fascinating; the boss must be a clever chap. And the bridges are thrilling – your heart races when you’ve loaded windmill fuel.
What I liked best were the people and animals on board. The way the BS crew combine work and life is remarkable.
They’re sometimes very tired and yet still relaxed, funny, very, very kind and caring. The trainee sailor took me to the Maritime Museum near Dortmund.
As I said, the trip was brilliant; I was really sad when I had to disembark on Friday.
I didn’t see much of the world, but I met some lovely people. I’ve gained insights into my own work and personal life. The week with the Butenhofs was balm for my soul.