African inspired river elegance
Connecting with Nature
‘Humans have an inherent need to connect with nature and, from the moment that you step on board the Zambezi Queen, that’s exactly what happens.’ [Maurette van Eyssen]
Celebrating the beauty of nature
The recent regal refurbishment of the Zambezi Queen by Mantis, the Grande Dame of the Chobe River, was undertaken with great care and deliberate thought, with a focus on celebrating the abundance of wildlife, the beauty of nature and the fascination of the river.
Unlike a land-based lodge, the Zambezi Queen – a 42-metre luxurious, 5-star floating boutique hotel – traverses roughly 25km of the Chobe River for guests to enjoy some of the best wildlife viewing on the banks of the Chobe National Park. From trumpeting elephant (one of the most dense populations on the African continent), to large numbers of buffalo, leopard and lion, a variety of antelope and abundant birdlife.
Local inspiration
Maurette van Eyssen founder of Mi Designs, an international interior-architectural design house based in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), South Africa, was the local designer behind the magnificent make-over.
Her challenge: To ensure all elements merged harmoniously to create a sophisticated indoor/outdoor flow and paid homage to the star of the show – the Chobe River. Design influences include elements of organic shapes to the subtle colour palette of nature, the reeds and trees along the banks, the vast sky, as well as the colour and design cultures of local communities.
Art and textures
Supporting South African talent, artisans and suppliers was also a requirement. There’s artwork from celebrated artist, Denby Meyer and fabrics specially selected from the Ardmore African-Inspired Luxury Fabric Collection, which features unique, exquisite hand-drawn, colourful designs of animals and flowers.
Palatial suites
The attention to detail, skill and creativity of all crafters involved, is clearly evident. The 14 luxury suites are light and airy with clean lines, nude palettes and well-considered pieces to complete the look. Each suite has been updated – from new carpets and wardrobes to headboards, bedside tables and sconces, as well as gorgeous throws, pillows and linen.
The suites are spacious and uncluttered, giving you plenty of room to relax and take in the extraordinary, ever-changing views from your king-size bed or private balcony. You can wake to bird song and a glorious sunrise lighting up the landscape, listen to the haunting call of the fish eagle, watch mesmerised as animals drink at the water’s edge and see the sun sink into a fireball African sunset … all from the comfort of your suite.
The deck
The communal upper deck has large sliding doors and windows and is a calm and tranquil space to meet fellow guests and regroup. It has a fresh, contemporary and organic feel, featuring natural materials such as rope, rattan and comfortable leather chairs. The brass clad bar reflects the golden light during sundowners.
Brown and white patterned Nguni skins add colour and pattern to the subtle neutral colours. The revamped library is the perfect place to curl up with a book or use one of the onboard binoculars to spot game.
The restyled restaurant serves gourmet meals, meticulously prepared by the locally trained Namibian kitchen team. The cuisine is a perfect balance of traditional fare, authentic local flavours with international inspiration.
Outdoor living
Step outside and continue to take in the riverside view, while reclining on L-shaped couches or poolside loungers at the bow of the boat. A new cocktail lounge, at the stern, serves delicious snacks and the attentive, yet unobtrusive staff are always on hand to conjure up delectable cocktails … or pass you a towel for a dip in the pool.
Each area of the boat offers a different spot to put your feet up and watch life on the Chobe go by.
When it comes to a luxury safari, the Zambezi Queen sets the standard. It’s where you connect with nature and experience a true African adventure.
This is life on the Zambezi Queen, part of the Zambezi Queen Collection by Mantis that includes the smaller Chobe Princess and the secluded tented Ichingo Chobe River Lodge, based on the secluded Impalila Island.
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Linger longer
Continue your adventure and reconnecting with nature by experiencing the best of the Chobe River and the Kalahari in Botswana. Considering beginning your African journey with three-nights on a luxurious river safari on the Zambezi Queen before heading to a three-night stay at Feline Field by Mantis, situated in the Kalahari followed by taking in new sights, sounds and skies as you spend three nights glamping in Khwai at Khwai Tented River Camp.Â
Talk to our African Travel Specialist, Antoinette, by emailing traveldesk@mantiscollection.com to curate a holiday adventure specifically for you.
