Vaal River
South Africa’s Vaal River (not to be confused with the Vaal Dam) flows through Gauteng, the Free State, the Northern Cape and Mpumalanga.
The largest tributary of the Orange River, the Vaal River meets the industrial needs of the greater Johannesburg Metro, and water drawn from this resource supports 12-million consumers in Gauteng and surrounding areas.
It also serves as one of Gauteng’s top leisure spots, the ultimate destination for those with a passion for cruising houseboats on a large expanse of still water peppered with jumping yellowfish.
A short 90-minute drive from Pretoria or an hour from Johannesburg brings you to this particular piece of paradise and Old Willow No 7 Houseboat Charters, where your fully fitted floating home away from home awaits.
Here you can rent a houseboat for a few nights without any boating experience. Each person who makes a reservation receives a full safety briefing before they take the helm of their houseboat, where they learn the basic skills to safely navigate the river.
Unskilled boaters are given a tour of the boat and taught how to moor correctly, plus where the best spots to moor are. Then you are welcome to take to the river and start boating!
The houseboats are compact, well-equipped floating caravans that sleep about five. The boats are tailor-made for the hire market, so there’s very little you need to bring with you. All bedding and kitchen requirements are provided.
From a catering point of view, Old Willow makes a range of delicious hampers that can be ordered in advance and collected on boarding. Or you can prepare you own meals and cook them yourself.
Any visitor to this aquatic attraction is advised to take a sail past Millionaires Bend to gawk at the spectacular riverside properties, and then anchor alongside a stretch of bank to indulge in a spot of fishing. You can hire bait and rods from Old Willow.
Birdwatchers will also not be disappointed. Many species of bird are found on the river – all you need is a pair of binoculars and a great bird book.
The river has something to offer all year round, midweek and weekend. Summer means swimming, skiing and sun-tanning on the river, while warm balmy nights are ideal for braais under starry skies. Autumn, winter and spring bring beautiful misty mornings and quiet days – perfect for a still getaway.
For more information on what’s on offer, visit www.houseboats.co.za or telephone +27 (0)16 973 1729 or + 27 (0)83 391 4884.