zambezi queen

The Zambezi Queen: Green Luxury Meets African River Safari

Filed under: Luxury Travel & Hotels, Yachts & Sailing, Green

The Zambezi Queen recently set sail for its debut voyage in Botswana and made history in the process as Africa's first luxury river safari and first eco-friendly floating luxury hotel. The Zambezi Queen takes two and three night voyages down the great Chobe river, where its sleek contemporary design contrasts with the lush and wild African landscape. The ship features 14 suites with private balconies for enjoying the view, a dining room overseen by top South African chef Pete Goff-Wood, a library filled with documentaries on African history and wildlife, internet access, a bar with a stylish lounge area and wood-burning fireplace, a shaded deck, and an outdoor pool. To promote conservation and sustainable tourism state-of-the-art technology was used to make the ship as eco-friendly as possible, including a special jet-propulsion system that reduces damage to the river bed and a low-emission power system for on-board electricity needs like lighting and refrigeration.

Safaris have always seemed a bit scary but this seems like a relatively safe way to experience the African wilderness -- from the luxurious viewpoint of a floating private balcony. Rates vary depending on season.

Gallery: The Zambezi Queen