Drifter is a large pontoon-type houseboat which can sleep up to 16 people. Currently housed in Marineland (because of low lake levels), this boat is personally managed to high standards by the owners of Chawara Harbour in Kariba.
The boat can be hired out on a self-catering or catered basis with crew in attendance.
Drifter has 4 en-suite cabins, three with twin beds and one with a double bed. There is also a separate shower and toilet for those sleeping upstairs (up to 8 people). The galley is fully equipped and there is a lounge area for those wanting to relax downstairs. There is a splash pool and a large top deck area, great for those who enjoy sleeping in the open air. All beds have mosquito nets. A pontoon type tender boat is available. Ideal for fishing and game viewing.
Chawara Harbour can supply drinks, ice, biltong, outboard oil, engine oil, fishing bait (select kapenta), diesel & petrol.
Reviews 5
Sophie ffrench-Constant, United Kingdom
18 November 2017
Our family has absolutely loved their time on the Drifter houseboat. It's perfect for getting everybody together in one place to relax and catch up. The crew members were incredibly efficient and friendly. Delicious snacks and meals were available throughout the day, such as fantastic fresh fish goujons or hot salty popcorn to take out on fishing trips. I was concerned that my vegetarianism would be problematic but, told in advance, the chef was incredibly accommodating and produced superb vegetarian options at each meal. The boat was kept wonderfully clean and organised so that we really didn't have to lift a finger and could simply enjoy the stunning scenery. As there were 10 of us on this trip, 8 were in the en-suite cabins (equipped with lovely hot showers!) and 2 slept out on deck under the stars. The crew were able to create comfortable beds, complete with mosquito nets, either on the top deck or in the lounge area of the boat, if the wind was strong. Overall this set up worked perfectly for us and would highly recommend this as a pleasant way to spend quality time with a large group whilst exploring the beautiful lake.
Dear Sophie. Thank you for your lovely review. We are so pleased you and your party had a great trip on Drifter! The Crew will be so pleased to see your positive feedback too. We look forward to seeing you again sometime soon aboard Drifter. Dave & Sonya McMaster
Turnbull family, Zimbabwe & Australia
25 January 2017
On arrival we were met by the crew of Drifter who helped us off load from the vehicles onto the tender boat and then we were transferred to the main boat Drifter in the harbour of Marineland.
I was very appreciative of this as we had 3 elderly people all over 70, so were worried how we would get them onto the boat with the levels being quite low and the steep embankment - this way they managed without any hassles at all.
Drifter was very comfortable and accommodated all 10 of us really nicely with ample room upstairs for the younger members. The 4 cabins were amazing with en-suite bathrooms making such a huge difference and giving each one the privacy.
The crew were amazing from the Captain who managed in some really stormy weather, to the Chef for keeping us well fed with amazing meals and snacks through out the day and the helpers taking us fishing and keeping the boat spotlessly clean - we truly felt pampered!! Our family visitors from Australia who said they have been on Ocean Cruise Ships in Australia were looked after better on Drifter. Which was so encouraging to hear coming from Our Kariba - whoop whoop!!
The only downside to our trip which I think is worth mentioning was the exorbitant National Parks Fees for our international members of family. National Parks really need to consider lowering these fees to attract more tourists and to allow us to bring our family members back to Kariba. We paid in National Parks Fees what it cost to hire Drifter for 1 day and 1 night - madness to say the least!! We are using US$ it should be one price for all.
We plan and look forward to our next trip to Kariba on Drifter as it was a truly relaxing and memorable holiday - THANK YOU.
Agent for the Werrett family, Zimbabwe
2 January 2017
They were so pleased with Drifter houseboat and your crew that they would like to re-book for this year!
Agent for client Tryphine, Zimbabwe
27 December 2016
The clients loved the trip on Drifter and enjoyed their stay in Kariba .Thank you for all your assistance and professionalism, greatly appreciated.
Sally Wynn-Pitman, Zimbabwe
21 November 2014
This is an extremely well-managed, owner-run fleet of houseboats. They are pontoon-style boats, so have very spacious and breezy decks. Ideal for groups of family and friends. Don't expect air-conditioning and luxury amenities, but if you are after comfortable, practical accommodation and friendly and efficient staff managed to an excellent standard, then these boats are for you. Book early, because they are extremely popular!