Vaal Meander

Whether You're Planning A Party Or Looking For A Unique Spot For A Week-end Getaway...
on The Water Is The Place To Be.

You may never get to experience Europe's Danube River at dawn or Spain's Tagus River at twilight but don't despair… A vacation on the mighty Vaal River isn't settling for second best. It's a hip and happening holiday destination in South Africa and the houseboats have added another dimension to the river's accommodation offering. From the comfort of a houseboat, holidaymakers can experience the bustle of the Vaal by day and the tranquillity of the water by night.

Fabulous Functions
The concept of the houseboats has evolved from the larger vessels often seen navigating a dammed section of the river known as the Vaal Barrage. These in-land cruisers offer luxury party venues and cater for corporate functions, weddings and private parties. They provide all amenities from catered dinners to colour co-ordinated table settings and live music, provided to make the occasion a memorable one. On most cruisers a full bar is provided and you have the choice of a brunch, lunch or dinner cruise. Bigger craft can accommodate as many as 200 guests while smaller vessels cater for 25 to 50 passengers.

Companies providing charter services for functions offer good rates for three-hour cruises and additional hours are billed accordingly. Shorter one or two hour cruises can also be booked. Services and facilities on the various cruisers do differ so shop around for something that fits your needs and your budget. To avoid disappointment, book your party at least four to six weeks in advance.

Houseboat Haven
Chartering a houseboat and navigating your way down the 55km stretch of river past Millionaires' Bend is a unique experience. The concept may be relativity new to South Africa yet it forms an integral part of tourism in many countries across the globe. The houseboat charter experience is gaining momentum with local holidaymakers. It has something to offer everyone, from seasoned fishermen and birdwatchers to honeymooning couples and family groups looking for romance or adventure. Holidaymakers have the convenience of a self-catering facility coupled with privacy and flexibility - the best of worlds - a peaceful spot in natural surroundings or a viby, upbeat atmosphere along the jetties at popular restaurants and pubs.

Companies providing houseboat rentals are located along the Vaal Barrage, about an hours drive south of Johannesburg. The boats have been designed for self-charter and are easy to skipper. If you've handled a boat before, you should have no problem adjusting to the craft. Don't be discouraged if you have never been at the helm before, a short cruise with an instructor should help you gain enough confidence to venture out on your own. From August 2008, a skipper's license will be required by persons skippering a boat on inland waters but some houseboat companies have applied and been granted permission to operate without the license.

When compared with other accommodation along the river, the houseboats do offer value for money, providing both travel and overnight accommodation in one. Prices differ in low, high and peak season and number of passengers on board. Low season rates start at around R600 per day. Check-in times are generally from 2pm on your first day. Some companies are flexible about the 10am check-out on the day of your departure but you'll have to book this in advance and pay a surcharge.

Seasonal changes provide a different experience at various times during the year, so if you're travelling on a budget, it's worth the trip, even in the low season. Summer is an upbeat time on the river and spring and autumn offer a more restful feel. In winter, guests can enjoy the balmy sunny days on the deck and retire to the warmth of the fore-cabin when nights are cold.

Casting Off
Leave your car in a secure parking or locked garage facility provided by your hosts and board a 2 to 4 berth Leisure Liner craft, sleeping up to 5 people. On board you'll find all the amenities of traditional self-catering units. Galleys are fully equipped with a gas stove, oven, sink and fridge. The heads provide a hot shower, chemical toilet and basin. Most boats also have a complete sound system and on-board braai facilities. Ask about specific facilities you may require when you make your booking as some boats have been customised for extra comfort. Bedding and kitchen equipment are provided for. You'll need to bring your food and drinks, clothing, charcoal and firelighters, a cellphone, a torch, insect repellent, a camera, adequate sun protection and a rain jacket.

Fuel costs are not included in the daily rental price. You'll be asked to pay a deposit for 25 to 50 litres of petrol at the pump price plus a handling levy. Tanks are weighed on return and you'll be refunded for unused fuel. A boat equipped with a 4 stroke engine will use about two to three litres of petrol per hour at a cruising speed of ten kilometres per hour.

Cruising Along
The abundance of birdlife and great fishing spots on the river are highlights of the trip, so don't forget tackle and the twitching kit – binoculars and a bird field guide. If you don't have your own fishing gear, you should be able to rent a kit from the company. Some companies also have a GPS/fish finder systems for rent. Points of interest along the river are entered in as waypoints and the fish finder system provides a hassle-free way of catching the evening's dinner – bass, yellowfish or carp.

The slow speed of the houseboat makes it perfect for birding. The area around the river is teaming with birdlife and provides avid birders the opportunity of seeing many different species in one area. Waterfowl like the South African shelduck, the grey heron, the yellow-billed egret and the African spoonbill frequent the area. A field guide and binoculars are essential if you want to make birding a major part of your trip. Include a notebook and pen, if you want to record the birds you spot.

Guests can also enjoy day-time attractions along the river like golf, beauty spas, various water sports and a day of fun at Emerald Casino at Aquadome and Animal World. Cruising isn't allowed after dark, so you can overnight at any of the clearly marked mooring spots provided. These also include some restaurant jetties along the river. The river is generally considered to be safe. Most companies do offer a 24-hour backup service if you require any assistance. Before you head out, you'll be instructed on where to find onboard lifejackets and a first-aid kit and how to use safety equipment like fire-extinguishers.

So next time you're desperate to escape the rat race, consider the Vaal. It's that closeness with nature, the gentle lull of the water as you drift off to sleep and the chatter of the birds at dawn that's bound to capture you and keep you coming back, year after year.

River Cruiser Operators:
Liquid Lounge: 016 982 3411
Party Boat Charters: 086 107 2789
Riviera on Vaal Hotel & Country Club: 016 420 1300
Stonehaven on Vaal: 016 982 2951/1

House Boat Operators:
Cruise-n-Snooze: 016 987 3562
Party Boat Charters: 086 107 2789

Written By: Gina Hartoog
Images: Riviera on Vaal Hotel & Country Club, Liquid Lounge and Old Willow No.7