18 Dec 2025

Zimbabwe Launches First Ever Luxurious River Cruise with the Debut of The Zambezi Trader

Msuna Island, Zimbabwe – A new era of river tourism has arrived in Zimbabwe with the launch of The Zambezi Trader, the country’s first luxurious river cruise vessel, now operating from Msuna Island downstream from Victoria Falls along the majestic Zambezi River into Lake Kariba. Bookings open from mid-January to mid-November annually.

This groundbreaking experience introduces a unique way to explore one of Africa’s most iconic waterways, offering guests 2-, 3- and 4-night cruises and an immersive and elegant journey through pristine wilderness and serene waterscapes. Traversing up to approximately 50 kilometres of the Zambezi River and Lake Kariba, The Zambezi Trader is set to redefine safari-style travel in Zimbabwe.

A Floating Boutique Cruise Ship on the Zambezi

The Zambezi Trader is a grand, multi-deck vessel featuring 29 en-suite cabins with private balconies, air conditioning, fans mosquito nets and accommodating up to 66 guests. The vessel offers a variety of cabin options:

A-Deck: 16 Twin Cabins, all en-suite with river-view balconies
B-Deck: 5 spacious Family Suites (sleep up to 4), with access to shared amenities including a dining area, lounge, bar, sun deck, and large swimming pool
C-Deck: 8 exclusive King Suites with king or twin configuration, with access to a private lounge, bar, dining area, pool, and D-Deck viewing platform at the captain’s wheelhouse

An African River Cruise Like No Other

In addition to premium onboard accommodation, The Zambezi Trader offers a variety of excursions via smaller tender boats, giving guests the opportunity to explore hidden bays and tributaries of the river. Activities include:

Tender boat guided game viewing
Birdwatching
Catch-and-release Professional Sports Fishing for tigerfish, bream and catfish
Tender boat Sunset cruises with panoramic views over Lake Kariba
Visit the Local Fishing Village
Cultural and Community tour of the Chief’s Kraal and remote Tongan Village
Game Drives into the Kavira Forest Conservancy

“We are proud to launch The Zambezi Trader as a new standard of excellence for Zimbabwean tourism,” said Gavin Rennie, General Manager Sales and Marketing. “This vessel opens up the Zambezi River in a way that’s never been done before — blending comfort, culture, and conservation into one unforgettable experience.”

Bookings Now Open

Cruises aboard The Zambezi Trader are available for individual cabin bookings or full-vessel charters, making it ideal for solo travellers, couples, families, or groups. With its strategic location on the Zambezi River on Msuna Island, the vessel offers seamless access by road transfer or light aircraft from Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park and beyond.

Pricing starts from as low as USD 325 per person per night. Rates vary based on season and cabin type.

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +263 86 8800 2309 or +263 86 1200 9781

WhatsApp: +263 780 105 858

About Zambezi Cruise and Safaris

Zambezi Cruise and Safaris is a premier tourism operator specializing in authentic African safari experiences along the legendary Zambezi River and surrounding wilderness areas. Combining expertly guided wildlife encounters with luxurious river cruises, the company offers travellers an intimate connection with Africa's breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. With a commitment to sustainable tourism and community engagement, Zambezi Cruise and Safaris provide unforgettable journeys that showcase the region's natural wonders while supporting conservation efforts and local communities. Whether witnessing spectacular sunsets over the Zambezi, tracking wildlife through pristine bush country, or experiencing the thundering majesty of Victoria Falls, guests discover the heart of Africa through carefully curated adventures led by passionate and knowledgeable guides.

Marketing Collateral Links

UPDATED ZAMBEZI TRADER VIDEO 2

https://youtu.be/_K0eo_F7NDQ

ZAMBEZI TRADER SPORTS FISHING VIDEO

https://youtu.be/n59DRMMg-0c

THE ZAMBEZI TRADER PDF PRESENTATION
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1rz3suQ4oL2dq6b2k5MoiHXMDVeNfsMI6/view?usp=drive_link

THE ZAMBEZI TRADER IMAGES

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1aUpdj_ibVUawBnHJz4CVFGyd7943Hxtb?usp=drive_link
ZAMBEZI CRUISE AND SAFARIS MAPS
https://drive.google.com/file/d/15tdHWQRRk80UnL1aQpxi66tMLNj8Pbtt/view?usp=sharing

ZAMBEZI CRUISE AND SAFARIS SET DEPARTURE DATES

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1lrTEsOIIzgBzspNfUKYoTA9ltfRKXqum?usp=drive_link

ZAMBEZI CRUISE AND SAFARIS E-BROCHURE

https://www.flipsnack.com/65E786BBDC9/zambezi-cruise-and-safaris-brochure-2025/full-view.html