On the water: intimate experiences unique waterways

There are many ways to get up close and personal to an unfamiliar place — the food, the wine, the… boats? For many reasons, waterways have been and will continue to be the beating heart of the destinations they pass through. From the wildlife meeting grounds in Botswana to the caves of glow worms in New Zealand, we’ve selected a few opportunities for you to quietly glide your way by boat through encounters with nature, wildlife, history, and tradition. If you are inspired to see the world in a new way, please reach out. It is always a pleasure to assist you with your travel plans.

Black Water Raft

Waitomo, New Zealand

On the North Island of New Zealand, witness the glittering display of tiny glowworms in Waitomo’s cave system while gliding along on a small raft or canoe. Waitomo is a Maori word made up of two parts, 'Wai' which translates as water and 'tomo' which means entrance or hole, and is known for its population of Arachnocampa luminosa, a glowworm species found exclusively in New Zealand. As you learn the history of the cave from your guide, you will also see speleothems (stalactites and stalagmites), fossils and cave creatures.

Mokoro

Botswana, Africa

Much like a canoe, a mokoro ride offers surreal silence as you glide through Botswana’s Okavango Delta on a game viewing safari. These motorless vessels are traditionally carved from timber and led by a boat-man using a “ngnashi,” the pole used to push the mokoro forward. Those who have experienced Africa this way consider it to be one of the most tranquil experiences they’ve had - imagine peacefully brushing past reeds underneath the African sky and catching a glimpse of an elephant ear deep in the water. Keep your camera out!

Zodiac

Antarctica with Quark Expeditions

During a thrilling adventure with Quark Expeditions, you will visit remote and isolated sites that are accessible only by Zodiac. These large, heavy-duty inflatable vessels are typically used for transferring you (or your luggage) ashore, and for taking you ocean-level cruising among icebergs, whales and seabirds. Their flat bottom design permits the craft to land directly onto the cobble and ice-strewn beaches that you will encounter on your Polar expedition.

Donkobune

Yanagawa, Japan

During a visit to Japan, take a day trip to Yanagawa, a city on the southwesternmost of Japan’s main islands known for its many canals. There, you'll experience the city on a traditional donkobune (donko boat), a punt-style boat piloted much like a gondola in Venice. The picturesque canals of Yanagawa were once the moat network of an impenetrable water castle. if your visit falls in November, you may catch the annual three-day festival in honor of poet Kitahara Hakushu complete with poetry readings, fireworks, music, and evening boat rides. Foodie tip: try grilled eel, a local specialty.