THE DELTA BELLE HOUSEBOAT

The Delta Belle Houseboat is positioned in one of the greatest wetlands in the world, the Okavango Delta.   The Houseboat is moored in the Panhandle region of the Okavango Delta on the banks of the Okavango River in the small village of Shakawe, which is nestled in Ngamiland’s North western corner in Botswana. This part of the Okavango Delta is a water wilderness with papyrus-lined waterways, riverine forests, seasonal floodplains dotted with numerous islands, tranquil lagoons and crystal clear channels.  It is undoubtedly an extraordinary place and home to a big variety of plants and trees, animals, bird, insects, frogs and fish alike.  The Delta Belle Houseboat is ideal for small groups and individuals interested in an Okavango River Safari.

Boat Specifications

Built:  2010
Mooring:  Shakawe, Botswana
Class:  Luxury
Length:  19 metres
Width:  7 metres
Engines:  2 outboard engines
Electricity:  220V 
Accommodation:  5 x luxury en-suite cabins
Passengers:  maximum of 10 guests
Crew:  licensed Boat Captain, Chef and a Deckhand 
Tender Boat:  1 for water-based activities

Facilities on board

Lower Deck:  4 Cabins are situated on the lower deck - 3 with single beds and 1 with double.  A deck situated in the front offers a shaded leisure area as well as an open area for sunbathing.

Upper Deck:  1 Cabin with double bed, open plan dining room, lounge and bar area is located on the upper deck.  An open deck on this level makes it possible to enjoy superb views over the floodplains.

Accommodation

Accommodation will only be on board the Delta Belle Houseboat.  The houseboat will be moored at different locations on the Okavango River each night. Three cabins are furnished with twin beds and two with double beds.  All cabins have ample space and are fitted with mosquito nets and a glass sliding doors.  The en-suite bathroom contains a toilet, shower, single hand basin with warm and cold water and a wardrobe.

Meals

Meals on the Delta Belle Houseboat are served on the upper-deck.  Catered and self catered options are available. A cash bar is available for alcoholic beverages, soft drinks & water. Coffee and teas are complimentary.

Family Safaris

Attractions and activities on the Delta Belle Houseboat are aimed at both adults and children.  A family safari offers the opportunity for young and old to share the exquisite beauty and diversity together.

Child Policy

There is no age limit, but due to the nature of the boat, it is not advisable to bring babies and toddlers on board.  Any children on board are the parent's responsibility. Children younger than seven years are charged half the rate.

Things to do 

• PHOTOGRAPHY - The dazzling water wilderness of the Panhandle of the Okavango Delta presents nature and wildlife photographers with the perfect stage.  Whatever subject you’re interest in, ample opportunities will ensure rewarding pictures and lasting memories.
• BIRDING - Bird watching in the Panhandle is sure to be a worthwhile experience and offers bird enthusiasts the opportunity to become closely acquainted with the more than 350 species that is found in the area.  Frequent sightings include Fish Eagle, Pied Kingfisher, African Jacana, Red-billed Oxpecker, Black Crake, Egrets and Herons, Darter and Reed Cormorant, Heuglin’s Robin, Cardinal Woodpecker and the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl.  From September onwards numerous species of migrants and breeding-migrants also arrives in the Delta and sightings of the gracious African Skimmer and acrobatic Carmine Bee-eaters is not uncommon.
• GAME VIEWING - You will have the opportunity to see Hippo, Nile Crocodiles, Water Monitors, Bushbuck, Red Lechwe, Cape Clawless Otters, Elephant and the elusive Sitatunga Antelope who has found its niche in the wetland ecosystem.  But it is often the smaller things that catch the eye. The delta is also home to frogs and butterflies of every imaginable shape, colour and size, 8000 species of insects and spiders.  All of this whilst around you water lilies bloom and birds call!
• FISHING - The annual fishing season opens on the 01st of March and closes on the 31st of December each year.  Not only is the main waters of the Okavango River a captivating destination, it is also filled with life.  Whether you are an avid and experienced fisherman or aspire to land your first Tiger Fish, this will be a fishing experience to be remembered.  With many crystalline lagoons it’s definitely a fly fisherman’s paradise.  Main fish species in the Panhandle area are the legendary Tiger Fish, various species of Tilapia, Barbel (Catfish) and African Pike.  Guests to supply own Fishing equipment.
• KROKOVANGO CROCODILE FARM - With about 13,000 Nile Crocodiles on the farm, this sure is an experience not to be missed. A guided tour will give visitors the chance to observe the latest hatchlings as well as an opportunity to meet the oldest member of the family, Sam, roughly 70years old.  You will also be able to witness these prehistoric creatures in action during feeding times. A traditional garden showcases medicinal plants that can be found in the area and information on their uses by the local Batswana, Hambukushu and San people.