The upper deck offers an element of privacy necessary on a cruiser of this type, a place where guests are alone and free to bask in the sun, or sip ice-cold drinks from the bar while the crew see to the mundane task of taking you where you wish to go. The crew of three - captain, cook and general deck hand - provide all the service required to make one’s cruise a complete rest. During this and previous trips, the cook produced an array of excellent meals and snacks from the galley, while the bar was always stocked with the all important liquid refreshments on ice. Little touches like a water purification unit (for drinking water) and an ice-maker, as well as ample refrigeration are a bonus. A small splash pool is incorporated into the front deck, negating the need for bathers to brave the lake waters, especially when moored. 

Serviced by one or two tender boats, and twenty litres of fuel per day each (included in the daily all-in tariff), anglers are able to explore areas within around the mother ship, fishing or game viewing. Piloted only by the boat’s crew who are very knowledgeable on the fishing of the western basin, one again has only to point in the direction desired, before being whisked away to some hot fishing hole, or lakeside game viewing.

 

Emphasis has been placed on making the Lady Jacqueline a safe, efficient and hassle free craft. As she only requires one engine when cruising, twin in-board diesels (each with separate fuel supply) ensure the craft is always able to move under her own steam, important when undertaking long-distance cruises. Main and back-up generators supply constant 220v power when required, while all water and sewage pumps are duplicated against possible breakdown. With a nine day cruising range (up to a maximum of five hours per day), she is capable of cruising the length of the lake, although for logistical reasons normally stays within the bounds of the western basin. Special long range cruises can be arranged with prior notice and subject to a negotiated tariff.

Our one night on the Lady J had the crew under pressure due to our late afternoon arrival. It seemed little problem though, as generators were already running, freezers cool and the boat ready for immediate departure. In less than two hours, we had nuzzled into a little bay, and a welcoming beach fire was set for our enjoyment. With just enough time for a short game cruise, we headed out to watch the sun set, entertained by kudu at the water’s edge, elephant and hippo before returning to Lady J with the stars glowing their nightly parade. 

 

After the long day on the road, the chef’s scrumptious meal and a nightcap was about all we could manage. Although the cabins are air-conditioned, as is my way, we opted for a bed made-up on the top deck under the stars. A mosquito net kept us safe, and the all-night breeze off the lake all but put us into a comma.

Lady Jacqueline is available at SAR8 950 per day (dry boat, self cater), while a fully catered option is available (includes all drinks and three meals per day, tender boats, fuel etc) if required. Children under 12 are half price, while those under five years of age are free. Road transfers (about two hours) from the Victoria Falls airport/town or Hwange can be arranged for guests flying in.