On 23 December 2025, Peter Waterman handed over the leadership of Aqualiner — including its services Waterbus, WaterShuttle and VMR — to Johan de Haas. A familiar figure within the network of transport operators, shipbuilders and local authorities committed to mobility in the region, we spoke with him about his background, his first hundred days and his vision for the role of Aqualiner in the years ahead.
Can you tell us something about yourself and the path that led you to Aqualiner?
“I grew up in Zwijndrecht and was already surrounded by ferry services in the region as a child. After studying mechanical engineering, I started my career in the petrochemical industry, but I wanted to work closer to the end product. That led me to Damen Shipyards, where I spent ten years working on fast ferries and later on the design and marketing of new vessel concepts.
My involvement with the Maassluis–Rozenburg ferry service strongly shaped my perspective on regional accessibility. As Damen is a shareholder in Aqualiner, I subsequently became the main point of contact between the two organisations. During a period of major challenges, I worked together with the Province of South Holland, municipalities and the team to develop a future-proof plan that now forms the foundation for the years ahead.”
What will be your main focus during your first hundred days as CEO?
“In my first months, one thing comes first: our people. The fleet is important, but it is our employees who make daily transport possible. I want to listen, get to know people and understand what is happening across all parts of the organisation. At the same time, I see opportunities to further develop our commercial activities — not only via the WaterShuttle to Kinderdijk, but also by supporting regional infrastructure projects. We can contribute more than we currently do.”
What role do you see for water transport in the future mobility of the region?
“We are facing major changes in mobility. Pressure on the road network is increasing and cities want to become less dependent on car traffic. That makes it logical to give water transport a permanent place within the mobility system. As many cities are located along waterways, we can offer direct connections where space on land is limited. In addition, the major maintenance projects planned for roads and bridges in the coming years provide an excellent opportunity to introduce travellers to this alternative mode of transport.”
What opportunities do you see in terms of sustainability and innovation?
“Sustainability will be central in the coming years. Waterbus line 22 is already fully electric. Electrifying longer routes is technically possible, but grid congestion remains a challenge. That is why we are also exploring solutions such as Smart Energy Hubs and battery buffering. A new electric vessel is planned for the Maassluis–Rozenburg ferry service, including automated mooring. This will increase efficiency and safety for the crew. Automation is not a goal in itself; it must improve safety and reduce workload.”
How important is cooperation with partners such as the province, municipalities and tourism organisations?
“That cooperation is crucial. Mobility only works well when different modes of transport connect logically. Think of links with cycling routes, complementary public transport and park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts of cities. Cooperation is also essential for tourist connections. The potential in the region is significant, and together we can add a great deal of value.”
What do you hope to mean for our passengers and employees?
“I want to build on the work of Peter Waterman and the team. In recent years, Aqualiner has become more stable and reliable, and that is the foundation. My goal is to maintain that base while at the same time developing new opportunities that benefit both passengers and employees. I also see opportunities for connections to special destinations, such as Kinderdijk. The region offers many possibilities that we want to further develop in the coming years.”
About Aqualiner
When you are on the move, your destination is what matters most. But whatever your destination may be, you want to get there in an efficient and enjoyable way. That is exactly what Aqualiner provides. With Waterbus, WaterShuttle and VMR in the Netherlands, we offer high-quality, safe and accessible transport over inland waterways for everyone — whether you are travelling to work, school or enjoying a day out.
About Johan de Haas
“Born in Rotterdam, raised along the Lindtsedijk in Zwijndrecht and now living in Dordrecht with my wife Mirjam and our two children, Lisa (13) and Leon (10). As a result, I am very familiar with the region.
In my spare time, I enjoy working with technology, whether that means DIY projects or tinkering with motorcycles and boats. I also try to get on my bike or go for a run from time to time, although that does not always happen as often as I would like.”