Northern KwaZulu Natal has many natural and splendid beauties, but little can compare with the superb wildlife to be seen on the shores of Lake Jozini (also known as Pongolapoort Lake). On board the Shayamanzi's soak up the stunning scenery of the Lebombo Mountains and Pongola Game Reserve. Enjoy calm serenity on the water or the thrill of Tiger fishing! There are 2 boats. Shayamanzi I is 25 meter by 8 meter, double pontoon houseboat launched on the 18th October 2002 and Shayamanzi II is a 30 meter by 8.6 meter, 3 floor houseboat launched on the 6th September 2007.
Cruising in style, Shayamanzi passengers enjoy different anchorages each evening. The boats are fully serviced with a world-class crew, who will ensure you delicious meals, a safe cruise, great fishing, game viewing and bird watching of more than 300 species.
The Shayamanzi's are registered by SAMSA (South African Marine Authority) to carry 100 passengers and thus ideal for group day cruises or weddings.
Safety equipment is regularly checked and safety procedures are explained by the Captain on arrival.
THE CREW
The charming and experienced skippers take you on your journey of Lake Jozini.
The Chefs prepare the sumptuous meals. Wholesome breakfasts, light lunches and delicious 3-course dinners or braais are served on the upper deck, not to mention the mid morning and high teas accompanied with freshly baked biscuits and cakes.
Deckhands ensure your cabins are clean, your meals are served, and they will also take you on fishing or game viewing trips.
FACILITIES
The top deck is comfortably furnished with a lounge, dinning area, bar and sundeck. The Captain also has his bridge in the centre on the top deck.
The welcoming wet bar, jacuzzi with a heating system, passenger cabins, crew cabins and kitchen are situated on the lower deck (or decks in the case of Shayamanzi II).
Shayamanzi I :6 Luxury passenger cabins. 8 Seater jacuzzi
Shayamanzi II :She has 3 floors with 10 en-suite, air-conditioned cabins. 12 Seater jacuzzi
There is also DSTV, surround sound music system and games for entertainment. There is a small selection of cd rom music on the boat and you are welcome to bring your own aswell.
Shayamanzi makes for a unique executive conference and wedding venue where all the relevant details are supplied or can be arranged.
ACCOMMODATION
As you lie in your oak panelled cabin, the stars reflecting on the water and the moonlight shining through the flattering, drifting curtains, you wonder what could be more romantic. The hippos snorting in the nearby bay remind you that you are surrounded by nature at its best.
All the cabins are en-suite with shower, basin and toilet. They have mosquito netting, plug points and fans on the Shayamanzi I or air-conditioners on Shayamanzi II.
The 6 luxury passenger cabins are 3,6m x 3,5m and airy with large sliding window doors as your boundary to the water.
The 4 luxury pontoon cabins on Shayamanzi II’s lowest deck, are also spacious and bright with a generous sized window. These also have a lounge area, which is convertible into extra beds.
For bigger groups, sleeper couches on the top deck are used to accommodate an extra 4 people who then share an ablution facility.
And for even larger groups, by hiring both the boats, you are able to accommodate a maximum of up to 40 passengers.
You may only hire the entire houseboat.
There is a minimum of a 2 night stay.
Should you choose a weekend date, both Friday and Saturday must be booked.
Due to safety, no children under 8 allowed.
Rates include:
Accommodation, Two 85 hp Tender boats, Diesel & Fuel, Fully serviced.
Optional Activities:
Game Drives @ R300 p/p
Elephanting @ R350 p/p
Rhino Walks @ R250 p/p
Meals: R220 p/p/p/n (includes continental breakfast, brunch, snacks and dinner)
Transfer Rates:
R85 p/p for 13+ passengers
R95 p/p for 7 – 12 passengers
R125 p/p for 1 – 6 passengers
This fee includes the transfer from Shayamoya Game Lodge to and from the jetty to Shayamanzi;
also includes the entrance fee to the game reserve
Extras:
Drinks, optional activities, gratuities
Rod Hire @ R75 per rod & tackle per day.
Any tackle lost or damaged to be replaced.
