Long-time captain of the Pražská paroplavební společnost Jaroslav Strnad has passed away

It is with regret that we announce the passing of the long-time captain of the Pražská paroplavební společnost, Jaroslav Strnad. He died at the age of 76.

From childhood, he was unusually close to our boats. His mother worked as a cook on a steamboat, and so he spent so much time on board that he occasionally even ran away from school for it — just so he could help with whatever was needed. Over time he became a reliable boatman, then a helmsman, and finally — after successfully passing his captain's exams — he took command of the steamboat Děvín. In the years that followed, he served on a number of other boats, for example the boat Malše.

In the early 1990s, he was among the first to leave the Pražská paroplavební společnost for private operators — thanks to his experience he made his mark both on smaller vessels and on the large boats Evropa and Tyrš. After six years, however, he returned to Vyšehrad, where he eventually spent the rest of his career. He often worked overtime in the job, because he greatly enjoyed it and it also supported his large family.

His departure has left an empty place on the Vltava and in our hearts. We extend our sincere condolences to his family and all those who survive him. May his memory live on in the stories that remain with us.