Old Willow No7 Houseboats
Having to sail your own houseboat on the Vaal River is a fantastic way to spend a weekend or even a midweek experience, for both families and couples. I would do it again and again.

Upon arrival at the Vaal River, an easy hour's drive from Johannesburg, we were met by Cindy the PR for Old Willow No7 cruises. Her friendliness and helpfulness set the tone for what was to become a memorable, relaxing weekend on the river enjoying South African summer blues skies and sun.

Our houseboat welcomed us with a flag, naming each member of the family. Another delightful touch was the plate of brownies and sachets of cappuchino welcoming us, and a personalized letter, outlining the current water conditions and a weather forecast for the next few days! Cindy gave us a rundown on the ins and outs of the houseboat. "When the engine stops, just change the fuel tank, pump the engine and restart". The houseboat is fully equipped with a fridge, gas stove and oven, kettle and a full set of pots, pans and cutlery. There is even a small Weber braai, which hooks securely onto the back of the houseboat. Cindy explained the best spots and assured us of how safe the experience is. (She knew we were from Jo'burg!) With that, we were off; turning port and heading up towards Millionaire's Bend where people like Tiger Woods have houses. Our first port of call, we decided, was about an hour's cruise away, to the Cloudy Creek estuary. There we ambled along to the incredible sounds of birds, water slapping the shores and pristine green willows and bush.

We found a spot we liked and dropped anchor for the rest of the day. We decided to stay there for the night. In fact, what is great about the houseboat is that you can choose just about any spot on the river to drop anchor and spend the day or night there. There is something so adventurous about being on a boat at night, watching the stars and listening to the unique river sounds. For supper that night we had a braai. Afterwards we sat inside and played games with the children. We brought some DVDs to watch but in the end sleep was a better substitute!

After having a very comfortable night's sleep in a double bed in the front of the boat, I grabbed a quick shower and put on the kettle for the cups of cappuccino and chocolate biscuits that had welcomed us. I woke the children up and put away their bed that transformed into the eating area. We ate some delicious smoked salmon with French toast for breakfast.

We hoisted anchor, switched on the engine and we were off to spend the day on the river, watching the water skiers, speed boats and jet skiers whiz by. For us it was a challenge to find a quiet spot to watch the birds and enjoy the nature of the river. Cindy says during the week, you can almost have the river to yourself. Weekends are much busier.

The children and my wife climbed up to the top deck to enjoy the view and the sun. We put up an umbrella that was soon going to test our sailing skills when a sudden gust of wind blew it off the boat. So we learnt how to maneuver the houseboat going forward, back in reverse and hands bringing the umbrella back on board. A bit of excitement!
The next day the umbrella totally disappeared. Nobody even noticed.

Saturday evening we decided to try the Taaibos Spruit. We found a cozy spot on the Spruit and spent the night there. In the morning we woke up to cows on the bank and a friendly hello from a farmer. We pulled up the anchor and sadly headed back to give the house boat back.

What a fantastic way to spend the weekend and such quality time with the family. I would heartily recommend this houseboat holiday as a very relaxing, wonderful way to get rid of the pressures of the work week and to simply relax.

You may visit the Old Willow No7 web site at: http://www.oldwillow.co.za/ for more information or call
Cindy De Barros
Administration Officer
Old Willow No. 7 Houseboat Charters
Tel: +27 (16) 973-1729
Fax: +27 (86) 509-4680
Cell: +27 (83) 391-4884
Email: info@oldwillow.co.za
Web: www.oldwillow.co.za