African Queen Houseboat

Introduction

African Queen is a charming two-decked pontoon houseboat, complete with a relaxing sundeck and powered by two 200HP Suzuki outboard motors. Designed with families in mind, it features secure rails and gates on all decks for added safety. Currently, she’s peacefully moored in the beautiful Kariba Breezes Harbour.

Passengers:Max capacity is 12 passengers plus 3 crew members, but for a more comfortable experience, we recommend sticking to 10 passengers.

ACCOMMODATION

• There are three cabins with cosy twin beds, and the fourth one features a fun set of bunk beds along with a single bed—a perfect arrangement for everyone! All these inviting rooms have lovely water views and are situated on the lower deck, offering easy access and a delightful experience.
• Every room offers convenient drawer space under the beds, a safe for your valuables, and air conditioning with fans to keep you comfortable. Please note that there are NO mosquito nets available, and unfortunately, no facilities to hang mosquito nets in the rooms.
• Two guests are welcome to stay in the lounge on the sofa if needed, making it a cosy and convenient option.
• Four cosy camping mattresses are available exclusively on the top sundeck so that you can enjoy a restful sleep there. Please note that sleeping on the entertainment deck isn't permitted.
• Please store all your valuables somewhere safe. It's always a good idea to keep your important belongings safe, so you can relax and truly enjoy your time without any worries.

CONVENIENCES

• There are two toilets, each with a shower and hand basin, all featuring hot water supplied by gas geysers.

FACILITIES

• The upper deck features a cosy, air-conditioned lounge and dining area, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your time.
• Guests can enjoy using a JBL speaker during their stay. It's a great way to enhance your experience and enjoy your favourite music.
• The entertainment area features two convenient bar fridges, self-serve bar counters, and overhead cabinets, making it easy to enjoy your time. Plus, there's a handy plumbed-in ice machine in the kitchen that keeps ice always available, adding to the welcoming atmosphere.
• The pool is situated on the entertainment deck toward the back of the boat, and there's a lovely umbrella to provide shade for your comfort.
• The sundeck is upstairs, offering four cosy sun loungers, a lovely umbrella, and a few comfortable director chairs, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the sunshine.
• Also on the deck, you'll find a gas braai ready for your use. There's also a wood braai stored in the storeroom, but please remember to bring your own wood, charcoal, fire lighters, and other supplies.
• The boat is eco-friendly, powered by solar energy with four lithium batteries, which can comfortably run some air conditioners and all the fans all night long.
• A 12KVA marine generator is also available and can run throughout the night if needed, at the guests' expense.
• Clients are asked to bring their own bin liners, toiletries, and cleaning supplies, such as Sunlight liquid, soap, toilet paper, and other essentials. This way, everyone can experience a clean and comfortable stay!

KITCHEN FACILITIES

Enjoy a well-appointed kitchen featuring crockery, cutlery, a gas stove and oven, two deep freezers, a plumbed-in ice machine, and an upright fridge—all designed to make your stay comfortable. A full-time chef is also available to cater to your culinary needs.

BREAKAGES

Any damages to the African Queen caused during your hire will be your responsibility. Please ensure that all repairs are settled before you disembark to keep everything smooth and hassle-free.

TENDER BOATS

They have two delightful tender boats equipped with outboard engines, perfect for your fishing adventures, game viewing, and relaxing sunset cruises. One tender is a Falcon, and the other is a charming pontoon. Please note, only the crew are permitted to operate these tender boats.

COLD STORAGE

In the kitchen, you'll find two spacious deep freezers perfect for storing meat, fish, and other items you catch.

An upright fridge is available for your perishables, making it easy to keep your food fresh and organised.

Two convenient bar fridges on the upper deck are available for storing your drinks and more. Guests can happily bring their own ice for freezers and cooler boxes, making it simple to keep everything nicely chilled exactly how you enjoy it.

CREW

The captain, chef, and deckhand have their own cosy quarters, creating a comfortable and organised space for everyone.

WEATHER CONDITIONS

Weather conditions on Lake Kariba can change very quickly. That's why, as part of your houseboat hire agreement, it's important that you and everyone in your group are aware of the following:

• In the Captain’s view, if the weather shifts and begins to show signs of possibly turning into a dangerous storm or if there's a risk to the safety of the houseboat, his decision to stop and look for safe docking options is absolute. His judgment will always be trusted and appreciated, without doubt or concern.
• Please ensure the houseboat is moored in a safe and suitable berth at least half an hour before sunset. Kindly note that travelling at night is not allowed. The captain will have the final say on where to moor the houseboat, and they appreciate your respect for his decision.

The captain and crew are dedicated to making your stay on the houseboat as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. They kindly ask that you remember there is a strict NO ALCOHOL policy onboard the houseboat and during charters. Please help us maintain a safe and pleasant environment by refraining from encouraging the crew to drink, as doing so could lead to their immediate dismissal.

FUEL

The boat holds up to 1,000L of petrol for the outboard motors and 500L of diesel for the generator, so you're well-equipped for your journey.

Please remember to refuel and settle your payment at the end of your charter. Also, make sure to do a dip check with the captain before you leave the harbour. Thank you!

GENERATOR - DIESEL

The generator comes with a full tank of 500 litres and is used at an estimated rate of around 25 litres per day. If you anticipate needing more, please make arrangements to bring additional fuel with you. Just a friendly reminder that clients will need to pay for and refuel the generator at the end of the charter.

TENDER BOATS – PETROL & OIL

There are 50 litres of petrol on board along with outboard oil. Clients are welcome to refuel and settle the payment at the end of the charter. If you'll need a bit more fuel, please feel free to arrange for additional petrol to be on board.

DEPARTURES AND RETURNS

All charters start at 12:00 pm on the first day and return by 10:30 am on the last day. We’re happy to help you plan your trip, though please note that we don’t offer back-to-back charters.

FIRES

Please remember, fires are not allowed on the lake shoreline under any circumstances. Let's keep our environment safe and enjoyable for everyone.

NOISE LEVELS

Please be considerate and keep noise levels down, especially when you're on the shoreline of Matusadona National Park or near other houseboats. Your cooperation helps everyone enjoy a peaceful experience.

RATES ON DRY BOAT BASIS

Please contact your agent for rates. Just a quick note—any breakages will be charged separately, so please keep that in mind.

DISCLAIMER CLAUSE

Please remember that the African Queen crew and management cannot be responsible for any valuables that might be lost, such as money, jewellery, cameras, etc., no matter the situation. To keep your belongings safe, we kindly suggest securing them in the safes available in the bedrooms and/or the captain’s wheelhouse. I appreciate your understanding!

While the owner strives to keep the boat in great working condition, please understand that we can't be held responsible for any unexpected issues that may arise from mechanical or other failures.

Thank you so much for your interest in chartering the African Queen! If there's anything more we can do to help make your charter experience smooth and enjoyable, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at any time.

If you need catering, drinks (return basis), ice, or fishing bait for your trip, reach out to your booking agent, and they'll be happy to help with your requests!

About Kariba

Lake Kariba is truly impressive as one of the world’s largest manufactured lakes; it is an absolutely breathtaking place in Zimbabwe. It's a wonderful spot where you can enjoy gorgeous scenery and an exciting array of wildlife, making your visit truly special.

Nestled along the stunning Zambezi River, this charming spot is loved for its serene waters, breathtaking sunsets, and fantastic opportunities for fishing, boating, and exciting game viewing. It's a true paradise for nature lovers and those seeking beautiful moments in nature.

Visitors can enjoy exploring Matusadona National Park, where they might spot elephants, lions, and many other wonderful animals. They can also relax on luxurious houseboats and make cherished memories in a beautiful, unique environment.

Kariba offers a beautiful blend of adventure and tranquillity, making it a delightful destination for nature lovers and those seeking a unique African escape.