A weekend on a self-drive houseboat

Hire a self-catering, self-drive houseboat on the Vaal River for the weekend. Sleeps 4. We are based just off “Millionaires’ Bend” on the Vaal Barrage, an easy hour’s drive south from Joburg.  We show you the ropes (this takes 30 to 45 minutes) and you become skipper of your own river adventure! 

Take the helm of your houseboat and navigate the Vaal River. Cruise 55km of South Africa’s most dynamic permanently navigable inland waterway. Explore the vibrant shorefront attractions, docking at restaurants, bars, spas, golf courses, and the Emerald Casino Resort. Try your hand at watersports. Enjoy house-spotting on Millionaires’ Bend. Test your skill with a fishing rod. Haul out the twitching kit.

Experience the tranquillity of unspoilt wetlands, misty sunrises and balmy evenings. Moor in a secluded spot, light up the on-board braai and watch the sun set. Then retire to bed on the boat under the starry sky with the lapping waves and croaking frogs as company. There’s also overnight mooring at some of the riverfront restaurant jettiest. It's totally exclusive and totally private. And very, very memorable.

Petrol excluded from bid - you pay for what you use. 22-24 May 2009. Check out www.oldwillow.co.za for more information.