Lights are on a 12v system, there is also a 220v system which is powered by the generator (this is a silent generator for client’s convenience). The generator needs to run water pumps and there is an optimal number of hours that it needs to be run to keep the fridges/freezers cold etc. It is at the Captain’s discretion as to how long it is necessary to run the generator (which uses approximately 1 ltr per hour). Clients will need to bring chargers if necessary.
Somabhula is a wonderful, spacious & practical boat, with 4 double cabins downstairs that sleep 2 each, and 8 beds on the top deck, as well as 2 on the jacuzzi deck. All beds are fitted with mosquito nets. Please note there are industrial fans but NO AIRCON. There are 3 separate showers and 3 toilets.
The top deck has a lovely bar, with a bar fridge and lounging area. There is a large open-plan dining room, which the staff lay beautifully for meals. There are also 2 freezers upstairs (so that fish can be kept separate to other groceries) and 2 industrial fans.
The kitchen has a large gas stove, a freezer and a large cooler for vegetables.
The front deck has a splash pool. Shower towels are provided but please take your own swimming towels.
The crew have their own cabins and ablutions.
1 x 16ft Volvo Speed boat with 90hp Mercury motor and 1 x Skimmer Pontoon with 30hp Mariner motor (ideal for fishing and game viewing) Max Pax 12. The skimmer uses approximately 3 – 4ltrs/hr and the speed boat uses more.
A weber braai can also be found onboard. Please bring your own charcoal as obtaining wood from the shore is strictly forbidden by National Parks.
In case of EMERGENCY on the lake there is a First Aid box available – please use the contents thoughtfully and record usage. Kariba is a Malaria area. Passengers are advised to take preventative medication and should take all appropriate steps to avoid being bitten – mosquito nets, sensible clothing, repellents, etc.
Toilet rolls, soap and toiletries are NOT PROVIDED so please ensure you include these with all your other requirements. There are 3 showers and 3 toilets.
Please be careful with your valuables. A safe is provided in the Wheelhouse for locking away valuable documents, cash or other precious items. We encourage you to use this facility.
Fishing rods and tackle are NOT provided. Rods and reels can be hired and worms can be purchased on the way up from Harare or from Marineland. It is advisable to book in advance. There are two large worm boxes on the boat in which worms can be kept.
Please note that there is a general houseboat crew tariff recommended for tipping in the industry which they all rely on as part of their income and incentive. This crew is, by reputation, exceptional and therefore we maintain that the tip should not be optional but be part of the added cost of the charter. If you do have any major issues with the crew then we would prefer you advise us directly so that we can take appropriate action or advice on how to adjust the TARIFF. Extra Hand – Only applicable if the number of passengers exceeds 14.
TARIFF
It is not necessary to provide the crew with food as we provide rations
PLEASE NOTE: It is a National Parks regulation that one is not allowed to walk unaccompanied by a National Parks Ranger in the Matusadona National Park. It is the Captain’s responsibility to ensure that all passengers adhere to this regulation. Should you be caught on land, by a National Parks employee, the Captain will most likely lose his license. Should you wish to undertake a guided walk this can be arranged at the National Parks office in Tashinga. The entire Lake Shore is a National Park and your respect for the flora and fauna is essential. No one is permitted to make fires or dump rubbish anywhere along the Lake.
There is Starlink on board.
An Indemnity form must be signed prior to departure and handed to Pilate Nyoni, the Captain of Somabhula. A specimen of the Indemnity form is shown at the end of these notes.
10:00 a.m
DISEMBARKING
10:00 a.m
**Please note that whilst every effort has been made to ensure the details supplied above are correct we cannot be held responsible in any way should an item mentioned above not be on board/broken or miss quoted.
