adminPatrick Chitumba recently in Binga
Kariba Ferries (Pvt) Ltd has re-introduced a vessel service linking the resort towns of Victoria Falls, Binga and Kariba for the swift movement of tourists.The service which had been dormant for the past 10 years is now operating between Andorra harbour in Kariba Town and Mlibizi in the western end of Lake Kariba and can accommodate up to 100 tourists and 15 vehicles.
Travelling from Victoria Falls to Kariba and the other way round had in recent years been a problem for many, especially tourists.
Chronicle caught up with the ferry as it was docking at Mlibizi harbour on Friday morning after an overnight voyage of 22 hours.
In an interview, Clemence Chikumwe, one of the hosts on the ferry said the company was operating two ferries namely Sea horse and Sea lion between Kariba and Mlibizi.
He said the re-introduction of the package had been necessitated by the upsurge in tourists wanting to use the service, especially those driving from Victoria Falls to Kariba or the other way round.
“We re-introduced the service because we now have tourists requiring the services from both ends. We are operating two vessels on the journey which takes 22 hours from Kariba to Mlibizi,” he said.
Chikumwe said once on board, tourists can relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Lake Kariba as they cruise its full length.
“The drive from Victoria Falls or Binga to Kariba is extremely long and arduous; therefore the ferry brings convenience to travelling.
“Three meals including lunch, dinner and breakfast, morning and afternoon tea are also provided,” he said.
“Sleeping is communal on chair-beds in the central lounge area. All bedding is provided and there are toilets and hot showers available.”
Mlibizi hotel manager Maxmillan Chigubhu said they were in the process of renovating the Mlibizi airstrip in anticipation of more tourists in the near future.
“We are anticipating a lot of business in the near future and we want Mlibizi to be linked by air. Right now we are happy that the ferry linking us with Kariba is back and it will be a complete package if the airstrip is renovated and planes start landing here,” said Chigubhu.
Londile Moyo
Online Reporter