Zambezi Cruises

Most passengers come from English-speaking countries, including the U.S., U.K., Australia and New Zealand. While children older than 12 are permitted onboard, the line is not particularly child-friendly.

No. There is no dress code and the main criteria is to bring comfortable, loose clothing suitable for the African climate.

No, but a lot is, with rates including all meals, daily game viewing on tender boats, select shore visits, airport transfers and soft drinks, mineral water, coffee, tea, beer and wine. Premium alcoholic beverages, gratuities and visa fees are not included.

Don't expect a typical river cruise. The boats only sail a 15-mile stretch of the Chobe River and move slowly between the same mid-river moorings all the time. Shore visits -- usually for game drives or village visits -- are offered, but it's not uncommon for people to stay onboard and just take in the view from the boat. And there's plenty to see: more than 450 species of birds, plus one of the densest populations of elephants on the African continent. Hippos and crocodiles can be seen frequently, and some passengers might be lucky enough to spot leopards coming down to the banks to drink. There are also opportunities to go tiger fishing on a catch-and-release basis.

Best for: Adventurous, wildlife-loving travelers; groups seeking to charter an African houseboat

Not for: Big-ship cruisers looking for extensive onboard activities and late-night parties