This May, Mantis Collection launches the ‘Zambezi Queen Collection,’ introducing a small fleet of regal river cruisers a few miles from the point where four African countries meet, namely Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. This provides additional travelers with access to over 30 miles of the remote Zambezi and Chobe riverine ecosystems. Chobe Princesses (formerly referred to as The Pride of The Zambezi and the Ichobezi house boats) have been entirely refurbished. After 18 years owned and operated by the Oxenham family, are being re-launched as Mantis boats, having undergone extensive renovations to become the Chobe Princesses. These chic riverboats will join pre-existing Mantis Collection floatel, The Zambezi Queen.
The prized fleet of four river cruisers provide options for travelers of varying needs and interests. After their acquisition in March, 2015, the three Chobe Princesses have undergone extensive refurbishments incorporating luxurious furnishings. The addition of air conditioning and plunge pools ensures guests remain relaxed throughout their stay. Installation of upgraded engines, plus additional safety equipment, and a sleek, refinished exterior have rendered the Princesses on par with the standards of the Queen.
Acclaimed eco-cruise vessel, the Zambezi Queen, is the matriarch of the collection. Since her reconstruction and interior design overhaul in 2008, the Zambezi Queen has served as a well-lauded river cruiser on the Chobe, setting regal standards in luxury, river safari experiencesFor Mantis guests, any of the floatels in the ‘Zambezi Queen Collection’ present the perfect base from which to explore the densest concentrations of wildlife on the African continent. Absorbed amongst one of the largest populations of elephants in the world (estimated at approximately 120,000) travelers have unprecedented access to this Queen of the African animal kingdom.The ‘Zambezi Queen Collection’ and its staff offer a variety of land-based activities, including Community Village visit, tender boat excursions into Chobe National Park, bird watching and fishing on the Chobe River. They also offer day trips to Livingstone, providing the opportunity to explore the breathtaking Victoria Falls, a true natural wonder of the world.
