It’s great to get away for a weekend, or hopefully even longer, and if it’s your first time staying on a houseboat, here’s what you need to know …
Looking for a local break with a difference, then now’s the time to consider Shayamanzi Houseboats – a relaxing experience that’s a whole lot of fun. And if it’s your first time on a houseboat, here are some tips that can help prepare you for your upcoming chilled “floating” adventure:
- The first thing you need to do when heading to this awesome destination is to confirm your group if you booking out the entire Shayamanzi Houseboat. Alternatively, check which of the two wonderful houseboats you’ll be exploring during your vacation.
Shayamanzi 1 has six luxury air-conditioned cabins, each sleeping two passengers. Rooms are en suite with shower, basin and toilet. This houseboat has two tender boats and an eight-seater jacuzzi.
Shayamanzi 11 sleeps 20 and has a crew of six. There are six comfortable luxury air-conditioned cabins, each sleeping two passengers, which are en suite with shower, basin and toilet. There are another four smaller pontoon en suite cabins on the lowest deck with two porthole viewing windows. These cabins also have a small seating area which can convert into additional bedding for young children. There are three tender boats and a 12-seater jacuzzi.
- Packing: This is one of those wonderful times when less is more. Chances are you’ll spend most of your time relaxing or taking a dip in the jacuzzi, so costumes, sarongs and shorts are the way to go. The sun in Zululand can be very harsh, so don’t forget to pack suntan lotion and hats.
For those who choose to go bass fishing, all equipment is supplied – unless you are a champion bass fisherman and have your own equipment that you cannot fish without.
- Arrival: On arrival you will be escorted to your designated parking areas and crew members will take your belongings to the tender boats. The awesome thing about the Shayamanzi Houseboats is your captain, crew and onboard chef. They will take care of you from start to finish.
The crew will brief you on all safety issues and show you where to find anything you might need. Pack binoculars and cameras if you plan to capture the wildlife along the shores.
- Chillax: The most important thing is to simply have fun, enjoy the cruise and just sit back on the soft comfy couches aboard watching the world go by.
Laze around, enjoy your favourite book, close your eyes and reflect on your thoughts. It’s amazing how inspirational getting away can be, so if you’re a dedicated journaller, then now’s the time to sharpen your pencil.
There is so much wildlife to spot from onboard while cruising Lake Jozini – from hippos lazing in the shallows to ellies taking a sip and dip. You can also enjoy an array of beautiful water boats either from the deck of your houseboat or from one of the tender boats which will enable the crew to get you a whole lot closer.
While aboard, you will certainly enjoy the fantastic meals that are whipped up by the chef as well as limitless cups of tea and coffee. There’s an onboard cash bar as well.
The best thing of all is just knowing there will be no dishes, no housework, nothing to worry about – now that’s the life!
To find out more, visit www.shayamanzi.co.za