Booking a private boat on the Zambezi River is one of the most flexible, scenic and memorable ways to experience Victoria Falls. Whether you’re planning a celebration, a romantic moment or simply want a peaceful escape, exclusive boat hire in Victoria Falls offers a tailored alternative to shared river cruises.
This guide outlines everything you need to know – from capacities and timing to costs, add-ons and logistics – so you can select the perfect charter boat on the Zambezi River for your needs.
Why Choose a Private Boat Charter?
Unlike shared cruises, private boat hire in Victoria Falls gives you complete control over the setting, pace and guest list. Benefits include:
- Privacy: No need to share the space or view others.
- Timing control: Adjust departure and return based on golden hour, wildlife sightings or other plans.
- Custom layout: Seating, décor and catering can be adapted to your event or guest group.
- Photography: Fewer distractions and full control of the background make it ideal for professional shoots, proposal cruises in Victoria Falls, elopements or micro weddings on the river.
Private hire is particularly popular for corporate event river cruises, luxury family holidays, birthday celebrations, retirement gatherings or intimate holidays. It’s also a top choice for multi-generational travel, where guests want to reconnect in comfort and privacy.
Charter Options on the Zambezi
Pure Africa operates a diverse fleet, meaning there are multiple ways to enjoy a charter boat on the Zambezi River:
- Kalunda: Best suited for couples, families and smaller groups (up to 6 guests).
- Zambezi Explorer Signature: Designed for relaxed social events with excellent panoramic views – ideal for a private sunset cruise in Victoria Falls (up to 34 guests).
- Zambezi Explorer Luxury Decks: A more spacious, informal setting with comfortable lounge seating for up to 116 guests.
- Full Boat Hire: For larger private groups, wedding boat celebrations in Victoria Falls or corporate event river cruises, the full Zambezi Explorer (three decks) can be privately reserved.
- Zambezi Reflections: provides an intimate atmosphere ideal for small gatherings of up to 30 people and gourmet meals.
- Zambezi Breeze: A classic two-level steel catamaran accommodating up to 70 guests, offering elegant dinner cruises with panoramic river views and easy access to the service bar and lower deck.
Wedding Cruise Package
For couples looking to blend the magic of the river with their wedding celebrations, Pure Africa’s Wedding Cruise Package offers a sophisticated option. After your ceremony at the Pure Africa Waterfront, guests board a private sunset cruise onboard the Zambezi Explorer, returning to the venue for a reception dinner.
The package includes a two‑hour cruise with canapés and beverages, followed by a three‑course dinner and the flexibility to add décor, entertainment, tents, floral styling and more.
For more intimate groups, the ceremony can flow into a dinner cruise aboard Zambezi Reflections, with guests then continuing the celebration around the waterfront firepit.
For elopements or small private ceremonies, the Kalunda offers a beautifully romantic micro wedding boat Victoria Falls experience – an elegant, intimate cruise designed for two to six guests, perfect for exchanging vows as the sun sets over the Zambezi.
The in‑house wedding team handles the details – menu planning, transfers and coordination – so your special day can feel seamless and refined.
Sunset vs Dinner vs Bespoke Timings
Sunset cruises are popular year-round, as golden light, dramatic skies and active wildlife create an unforgettable setting.
Dinner cruises blend gourmet cuisine with the peaceful rhythm of the river at night, perfect for romantic evenings or post-conference entertainment.
Bespoke departures – early morning birding trips, mid-day celebration sailings or late-evening cocktails – can also be arranged to suit your schedule and intentions.
Seasonal shifts in water level and animal activity influence the experience. The Pure Africa team will guide you on the ideal time of day or month based on your goals.
What’s Included
Each private cruise in Victoria Falls booked with Pure Africa can include some or all of the below depending on your selection:
- Welcome drinks (sparkling wine or juice)
- Canapés or gourmet menus
- Beverages
- Friendly onboard crew
- Transfers within Zimbabwe
Popular Private Packages
You can also combine a private cruise with dinner for a full evening experience:
- The Eatery Dinner & Sunset Cruise: Cruise followed by a three-course al fresco dinner on the Pure Africa Waterfront.
- The Eatery Potjie Dinner & Sunset Cruise: Cruise paired with a traditional African potjie stew dinner.
These packages are well suited to honeymoons, anniversary dinners, high-end incentive groups or luxury FIT travellers seeking a sense of place.
Pricing Guide
Prices vary depending on the duration, group size, choice of vessel or deck, and any added extras. Private charters, deck hire and full boat hire can all be arranged, with food and beverage options fully customisable. Detailed quotes are provided once your preferences and requirements are confirmed.
Add-Ons
Optional extras to enhance your boat charter in Victoria Falls include:
- Live acoustic music
- Professional photographer or videographer
- Floral décor and styling
- Branded signage or menus for corporate events
These details elevate the overall experience and are ideal for marking a special occasion.
Logistics & Planning
To ensure a smooth experience:
- Lead time: 2-3 months minimum is recommended for custom charters; longer for large groups
- Accessibility: All boats depart from the Pure Africa Waterfront, with vehicle access and staff on hand to assist
- Dietary needs: Menus can be adapted for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other preferences
- Rainy-day plan: Covered decks protect against unexpected weather
Our team will be happy to walk you through all planning details from start to finish.
How to Book Your Private Boat
When enquiring about private boat hire in Victoria Falls, it’s helpful to share:
- Preferred date and time
- Number of guests
- Occasion (e.g. family occasion, proposal, wedding, team event)
- Food and drink preferences
- Any special requests (photographer, décor, transfers, etc.)
This helps the team prepare a tailored quote and make suitable recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can we reserve a private deck instead of the whole boat?
Yes, many groups choose to reserve a single deck. Full boat hire is optional and best for larger events.
What is the maximum capacity?
This varies from boat to boat, but the full Zambezi Explorer can host up to 150 guests across three decks.
Is live music allowed onboard?
Yes, live music is permitted and can be arranged through the Pure Africa team.
What happens if it rains?
Covered decks and rain contingency plans are in place. Cruises usually go ahead unless weather is extreme.
Can we combine a private cruise with a bush dinner?
Absolutely. Many guests enjoy a cruise followed by a bush dinner for a complete evening experience.
To plan your private boat hire in Victoria Falls, contact the Pure Africa team or visit pure.africa for more details and availability.
