Cruising the Tchefuncte River

Meet Captain Rob Rouyer of Tchefuncte River Charters.

BY KATIE GUASCO

ON THE NORTHSHORE, you’re never more than 15 minutes from water, so having an expert captain ready to take you out makes this relaxing treat easy to discover. Come aboard as I chat with Captain Rob Rouyer who knows a thing or two about river cruising.

Q: How long have you been operating boats, and what inspired you to become a captain?

A: I have been operating boats for over forty years. I bought and built my pontoon boat as a personal project in 2019. The more we used it, the more people wanted to rent it because of its uniqueness. I got my captain’s license and started Tchefuncte River Charters in 2019.

Q: Do you have a memorable experience from a past boat tour that you'd like to share?

A: Spending so much time on the river I get to see a lot of wildlife. Last fall, I had a group out for a cruise with friends from out of state. There were plenty of osprey, wood ducks, five alligators and a pair of eagles. My guests were so excited to have the opportunity to experience so many animals in the wild.

Q: What is your favorite thing about being a charter captain?

A: It surprises me how many people live in the Covington, Mandeville and Madisonville area and have never experienced the river that runs smack dab in the middle. I love it when locals take a cruise and get to see what they have in their own backyard.

Q: What can visitors expect on a tour with you?

A: I offer a relaxing cruise where a group of friends can kick back, sip a glass of wine or a favorite beverage while experiencing all that the river has to offer. During spring, you can expect to see all types of migratory birds and other wildlife. In the summer, the river is a place to swim and relax at Brady Island or the sand bar and watch the skiers and wakeboarders do their thing.

Q: What amenities can passengers expect on your boat for added comfort and enjoyment?

A: My boat "The Fat Bottom Girl" is a 26' pontoon boat. She has a forward covered seating area where you can take in the sights around a custom coffee table. There is plenty of room to seat passengers and have snacks, a meal or even crawfish while enjoying the ride. In the rear covered area of the boat there is a 7' bar with bar stools to hang out while cruising down the river. There is an onboard portable toilet if needed. You can't cruise the river without music, so we have a great Bluetooth-ready sound system. We have plenty of life jackets for adults and children and are equipped with all required safety gear.

Q: Are food and beverages provided or can passengers bring their own refreshments?

I offer a wine and cheese sunset cruise and a springtime crawfish cruise. I typically do not offer catering, but I can arrange for to-go plates through one of our local restaurants on the river. As always, my guests are welcome to bring food, snacks, beverages and an ice chest.

Q: What tips do you have for visitors who have never been aboard a vessel like yours?

In the spring and summer, bring your sunscreen. Most of all bring a fun attitude to help relax and enjoy your time on the river.

To book your unforgettable experience, visit www.tchefuncterivercharters.com.