Portrait: Philipp Hofmann, Managing Director

As a managing director, networker and family man, Philipp Hofmann is used to a fast pace. On Lake Zug, he experiences the opposite: a slower pace, closeness to his team – and a broad perspective.

With palpable energy and drive, Philipp Hofmann steers Zugersee Schifffahrt – and much more besides: as a member of the management board of Zugerland Verkehrsbetriebe, he is responsible for the market, including services, timetables, sales and marketing. He also has additional mandates in the areas of fare integration, tourism and economics. “My work ranges from strategic policy issues to practical, tactical topics – it's fantastic,” he says happily.

A place that has an effect on people
Even though shipping is only part of his work, the moments on the water always have a special effect on him: “Every time I get on the ship, something happens to me. You leave the safe harbour. You become more humble on the water. As soon as the ship sets sail, I become calmer, more relaxed – the broad perspective comes almost automatically." And another favourite moment: "When the skipper and sailor stand on the bridge as I board and I greet them. This bond with my own crew – it means a lot to me.”

His favourite trip? The Cruising Party with two young top chefs. “I love to eat myself,” he laughs. “And for our guests, it's a unique experience to see these two young stars together. It creates closeness and special memories.”

Customer enthusiasm as a way of life
2025 was all about customer enthusiasm at Zugersee Schifffahrt. ‘At the start of the season, we decided as a team to offer our guests the most beautiful two and a half hours of the day,’ says the Baar native. “And I noticed that this is being lived, not imposed from above.” For him, this is a real moment of happiness.

Time out on the water – strength in the mountains
For the coming years, the soon-to-be 50-year-old hopes that such breaks will continue to gain in importance. ‘In these fast-paced times, it's good for people to just drift along and watch the scenery pass by.’ He wants shipping to be even more top of mind – even for a younger audience.

Philipp Hofmann finds that the mountains are the best place to recharge his batteries after an intense season. ‘Preferably with my family,’ says the father of two. He finds his places of power and clarity at high altitudes.

Anticipation for the next season
His energy and his desire to constantly improve are what drive the managing director. At the same time, he takes many things with humour and serenity – an attitude that he also embodies in his team. “The team gives me inspiration and strength in return.”

At the end of the year, Philipp Hofmann wishes employees and guests a peaceful holiday season – and above all, lots of anticipation. “As soon as we set sail again in April 2026, I look forward to having everyone back on board. The wait for the next season is long – but that's exactly what fuels the special, joyful anticipation that you can feel throughout our entire team.”