Escape from Joburg this weekend and cruise the Vaal River on a houseboat

Picture this: It’s the weekend and you’re desperate to escape the hustle and bustle of Joburg for a few days. The city’s fast pace can leave you feeling drained and in need of a break. Luckily, the Vaal River is just a short drive away, offering the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge.

Forget the stress of traffic jams and crowded malls. Imagine replacing the noisy streets with tranquil waters and scenic landscapes. A houseboat on the Vaal allows you to do just that – experience a weekend getaway like no other.

As soon as you step aboard, you’ll be greeted by the soothing ripples of the river. Imagine drifting along the water, feeling the gentle breeze on your face, and watching the world go by. It’s a chance to slow down, take a deep breath, and enter a state of complete relaxation.

The simplicity and serenity of life on a houseboat is truly captivating. It’s a chance to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. You won’t need a long list of things to do or see – the beauty of the river and the company of loved ones are more than enough to fill your days.

Imagine waking up to the soft sunlight filtering through the curtains, stepping onto the deck, and enjoying a cup of coffee as the world wakes up around you. You may even be lucky enough to spot some wildlife as you slowly drift downstream.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try your hand at fishing or simply dive into the cool water for a refreshing swim. The river is your playground, offering endless opportunities for fun and relaxation.

And if you’re a lover of good food, you’re in for a treat. Cooking on a houseboat is a pleasure in itself. Imagine preparing a delicious meal in the cozy kitchen, savoring the aroma as it fills the air, and indulging in a leisurely feast with your loved ones.

As the sun sets, the magic of the river comes alive. The sky is painted with breathtaking colors, reflecting on the water’s surface. It’s a moment that reminds you of the beauty and wonder of the world we live in.

A houseboat on the Vaal is more than just a weekend getaway – it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you return to the city. So why not make this weekend one to remember? Pack your bags, leave the stress behind, and embark on an adventure of tranquility and exploration.

Hey there! Are you looking for a quick and easy getaway from the bustling City of Gold? Well, I’ve got a fantastic suggestion for you. Imagine spending your weekend on a houseboat, cruising down the beautiful Vaal River. The best part? It’s only an hour’s drive from Joburg!

Personally, I’ve always associated houseboats with Europe. You know, those charming vessels that people use to explore the canals of France and other exotic locations. Just the thought of it brings to mind leisurely afternoons, where you can dock your boat whenever and wherever you please. Picture savoring a cup of coffee in the morning, enjoying a delicious lunch, and even sharing a drink with fellow boaters as the sun sets.

I want to share with you the amazing experience I had in South Africa, specifically along the Vaal River. Recently, I decided to take a road trip and head south from Joburg. My destination: a self-drive, self-catering houseboat called Darter. This incredible vessel is owned and operated by a local charter company called Old Willow No 7.

All you need is a valid driving licence

Now, you may be thinking, “I’ve never captained a river boat before!” Well, don’t worry, because neither had I when I first stepped foot onto the Darter. Surprisingly, all you need to get started is a valid driving licence and a sense of adventure. Before I set off, Jessica from Old Willow gave me a thorough introduction and even provided me with a temporary skipper’s license for the duration of my time on the boat.

So, here’s what I suggest: Let’s start by practicing how to moor the boat. The staff will be there to guide you, so you don’t have to worry. I know it may seem a bit tricky at first, especially when it comes to reverse parking the boat (excuse me if I don’t use the technical boating jargon), but trust me, it’s easier than it looks.

Once you’re comfortable with mooring the boat, skippering it is a breeze. It’s kind of like driving a car, except you’re on the water without any wheels. And remember, in case you didn’t know, you drive on the right-hand side of the river, just like in France. Well, almost like in France, but not quite.

Time for Lunch

As you cruise along the Vaal River, there aren’t too many places to stop and explore. However, there are a few interesting spots worth checking out. And if you’re feeling hungry, I highly recommend having lunch at Stonehaven on Vaal. It’s the perfect spot to refuel and recharge after a day full of new experiences.

Imagine this: Stonehaven on Vaal, nestled alongside the peaceful banks of the Vaal River, boasts expansive green lawns and proudly claims the title of South Africa’s largest open-air garden restaurant. Here, you can indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights, from hearty pub-grub to exquisite restaurant-quality dishes. If you’re seeking relaxation but find that the boat alone doesn’t quite do the trick, this is the place for you.

Let me tell you, it’s quite an exhilarating experience. Picture this: you finish a satisfying lunch, hop back onto your boat, and set off on an exciting new river adventure. Just don’t forget to untie your vessel before casting off!

A simpler approach is often the best

After taking a break for lunch, I quickly realized that the true magic of a self-drive houseboat adventure lies in the spontaneous exploration of the river. Find a charming spot, drop anchor, and immerse yourself in the beauty of your surroundings.

I was given a map by Jessica during my orientation, and she was nice enough to highlight some fascinating spots along the river. The best part was that I didn’t even have to dock my boat to check them out! To top it off, Jessica even told me how long it would take to reach each spot. So, I recommend going to the first location and adjusting your speed based on her estimated time. That way, you won’t go too fast or too slow.

When you’re on a boat, speed matters. Going fast means using more fuel, and you have to pay for that. Plus, there’s a rule that you can’t travel on the river at night, so you need to find a place to stop before it gets dark.

A Beautiful Evening on the Vaal River

I found the perfect spot to spend the night: Bird Island. To park the boat, you need to go slow and gently nudge it into the reeds. Once you’re there, hurry to the front of the boat and grab a handful of reeds. Use those reeds to tie the boat to the shoreline. Make sure you secure it tightly with about 10 reeds.

This task was a bit tricky. I had to try a few times because when I went into the reeds too quickly, the boat would bounce back, and I couldn’t reach the reeds. Luckily, I managed to get it right on my second try.

Wow, let me tell you, it was absolutely worth it! Picture this: the African sun setting, with the back of the boat facing it. I fired up the little braai on the ship and soaked in the breathtaking beauty of our country.

I had such a peaceful evening on the boat, sitting there late into the night, just taking in the serenity of this place. It was a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and it felt like I was miles away from the riverbanks. In that moment, everything was perfect, and I felt a sense of deep contentment.

Perfect for family trips

When you step onboard the houseboat, you’ll find it cozy but comfortable enough for five people. The front bedroom cabin can accommodate three, while the dining area has a table that converts into a double bed for two. Despite the limited space, the experience is truly worth it. Plus, you won’t have to worry about bathroom facilities because the boat has a shower and toilet onboard.

As for the best spots to anchor along the river, be sure to ask Jessica about Family Creek, Otters Cove, or Eagles Inlet. These beautiful locations are perfect for spending quality time with your family. However, be careful not to anchor near the reeds as it’s strongly advised against.

If your kids enjoy swimming, they’ll love the river! And if you’re an angler at heart, you’ll be delighted to find various fish species in the water, including carp, barbel, and yellow fish. For a touch of luxury, you can treat yourself to a spa experience at Vaal River Lodge, which is just a 20-minute ride from the Old Willow jetty.

When I stumbled upon the River Palace, it struck me as the perfect spot for a relaxing drink in the late afternoon. Not only does it offer a beautiful beach setup right by the river, but it also provides an ideal space for the kids to frolic while you engage in captivating conversations with fellow houseboaters.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Old Willow No 7, the prices start from R1,295 per night during the low season. That’s R1,095 on weeknights and R1,295 on weekend nights.

When it comes to fuel, you only pay for what you use. The fuel charge is R550 for 25 liters, but you’ll only be charged for the portion you actually use. So you don’t have to worry about any extra expenses.

If you’re interested in day charters, Old Willow offers them from 11am to 5pm. It costs R1,500 and can accommodate up to six people.

If you have any questions or want to book, you can call Old Willow at +27 83 391 4884 or send an email to Jessica at [email protected].

And if you want to see more of Ryan’s adventures in and around Joburg, you can follow him here.

Pictures: Ryan Enslin

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