Took a wheelhouse tour this morning. The ship is actually controlled by a joystick rather the a wheel. Guests were allowed to ask the captain questions. They mainly asked about safety. Regulations are strict and all systems have multiple back ups. Extensive mapping and a radar system are all battery operated so that they are not impacted by any electrical failure.
After the tour, we had another great meal and then headed into Regensburg for a city tour. The city is a UNESCO site with many remnants of old Roman walls as well as dozens of intact medieval merchant homes that are still used today.
We returned from the tour chilled from the cold wind and headed straight for the hot tub. The kids loved a chance to splash around in the warm water and then we bundled them into the Amacello bathrobes and headed back to the room.
After dinner, they had a fabulous Bavarian duo onboard. The kids bounced to the polka music and Matthew was particularly enamored by the Bavarian flag that showed two lions that they had brought along. Ryan was volunteered to play the spoons and he did an incredibly good job, complete with a stylish Bavarian hat.
The trip was not only memorable for the amount of animals we saw but also for the people and accommodations at the two camps where we stayed. Our first guide, BK, was a wealth of information about the animals, landscape and down to the plants and what they were used for. Everyday out was a learning experience with him. All the people at the camps were gracious and the food was excellent.
Our second camp in the Okavanga was just as good as the first as far as the staff, accommodations, food and animals. After our experience at the first camp we amazed that the high quality remained the same. Our guide, G, made sure we were able to enjoy every experience including a rush through the bush to witness a cheetah and an ensuing hunt that he heard over his radio.
In both camps there were enough guides out that if they saw something the other guides were informed which helped in seeing as much as possible. It was also nice that the concessions were large enough that we did not have vehicles following each other throughout the day.
Normally there is always something in a trip of this length that we think could be improved upon but this is the rare case where we cannot think of anything. From the time we left the States to when we returned it was one of the most hassle free vacations we took.
Perhaps emphasizing the use of the laundry facilities at the camps would be useful because of the luggage restrictions would be the only thing I can think of as an improvement to future clients.
Kenneth Dropek
2 days ago
Mary was so pleasant and professional. She made sure all of our questions were answered.