Dutch captain Johan Bons fostered his passion for sailing while growing up among the dams and canals of his homeland. In 1998, he graduated from the Netherlands Maritime Academy, then went on to pursue a diverse nautical career in marine construction, cruising and cargo shipping. Ultimately, Johan discovered his calling navigating the narrow riverways of Europe and has sailed various types of vessels since becoming a Viking Longship captain in 2014.

With more than 15 years of river experience, he is a mentor for new Viking captains and has participated in Viking Longship Naming Ceremonies in Amsterdam, Cologne and Basel. He enjoys

cruising the scenic routes along the Rhine and Moselle and showing his guests a wonderful time. Johan also values the comradery among his trusted crew and appreciates the balance of work and leisure time during the sailing season—alternating between two weeks of sailing and two weeks at home with his family. During the off-season, the captain focuses on crew training, planning support and ship maintenance.