Serendib Hotels, which runs several hotels and conference centres in Malawi, recently introduced a luxury cruise boat to its offerings. The MV Mangunda is based at Liwonde and offers trips through Liwonde National Park and Lake Malawi.

Renovations, which will offer a luxury experience for guests, include redecoration and refitting of the interiors. New routes and experiences will be announced when it returns to full operations. There are also plans to offer dinner cruises between Serendib’s two lakeshore properties – Blue Waters at Senga Bay, and Zaburi on the Mangochi Lakeshore.

MV Mangunda is an 18.5-metre three-deck cruiser based near the Liwonde Barrage on the Shire River. 

Below deck are three rooms – one double, one twin and one quad in bunk formation – making it ideal for families and groups.

It has on-board toilets and showers. The middle deck comprises the lounge/bar, kitchen and the wheel house/crew quarters. There is a 360-degree walk around the middle deck with secure railings.

The top deck is 3.7 metres above the water, where guests can relax and enjoy drinks and meals.

From its base at Liwonde Barrage, the Mangunda cruises the Shire River into Liwonde National Park, providing opportunities for game viewing along the water’s edge. Guests will be able to take overnight trips on the Mangunda and/or a combination of overnight on the boat and staying at any of the lodges in Liwonde National Park, such as Mvuu Lodge/Camp.

The Mangunda also has a small tender boat that can be used for closer viewing of the wildlife in Liwonde, as well as fishing, swimming, and snorkelling in Lake Malawi.

Bookings for the MV Mangunda can be made through Serendib Central Reservations.