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A WARM GLOW PEEPS FROM behind, hinting at a golden dawn, persuading me to emerge from under my down-filled doona. The window in my quarters reveals a perfect river scene – a flotilla of pelicans scudding majestically near outstretched river gums in front of a cliff painted vivid ochre. The air is crisp and clear, with just a little mist rising further downstream. Nobody else stirs, so I press the “blind down” button and snuggle back into bed. Finally, the thought of missing the moment is too much, so I leap into the shower in my mirrored ensuite, dry down with a plush white towel and prepare to start the day. All this might sound like a five-star riverside hotel or a luxury liner, but it isn’t. this is the latest in modern river cruising – a “boatel”, a houseboat so coined for its hotel qualities. Designed by Adelaide-based architects Paul and Susan Pruszinski, South Australia’s million-dollar River Dream Boatel is the prototype of what they hope will be the first of many not only plying Australia’s waterways, but those around the world. Having enjoyed many houseboat holidays on the Murray River, the Pruszinskis (designers of Adelaide’s Rendezvous Allegra Hotel), felt the need for an upmarket vessel with the comforts of a modern hotel. “South Australia has the largest and best fleet of houseboats in the world, with some 300 for hire,” says Paul Pruszinski. “The top five boats on the river are booked out 12 months ahead.” The River Dream Boatel has the same floor dimensions as regular houseboats – 21.8m long by 8.5m wide – and cruises at about 12km/h, but with its aerodynamic, glassed-in design, it looks nothing like a traditional vessel. “And it’s the first houseboat without downstairs steering,” adds Paul. The Pruszinskis have also ensured the vessel is childproof. |
Entry to the dual-level boatel is via a small downstairs carpeted library and games area. A central hallway leads to five bedrooms with custom-made king-size beds (that can divide into two singles), a walk-in wardrobe and a full hotel-style ensuite with biodegradable products. The rear bedroom boasts a full-size bath to luxuriate in while gazing through the expansive windows. From the lower level, a staircase sweeps up to the sleek central operating helm, which links 85 individual computers controlling everything from the twin Honda 86kW four-stroke outboard motors, two “fish finders” and GPS map, to the lights and music. The helm adjoins a spacious lounge area where a cinema screen drops down for surround-sound entertainment. The large central kitchen unit has a dishwasher, microwave and separate fridge and freezer, while the glass-stocked island bar also has a cappuccino machine. A cosy gas-log fire in the elegant 10-seater dining area warms in winter, while two air conditioning units cool in summer. Outdoors, at the rear, there’s a deck sunlounge and a gas barbecue facility for preparing causal meals and hearty breakfasts. Guests are given a steering lesson before departure, then the vessel is theirs for the duration. Provisions are supplied by guests. Or can be ordered by menu or separately through the marina, and a chef is available if desired. A number of supply shops and delis are also located in safe mooring havens along the Murray River. The River Dream Boatel is moored at Temptation Marina in Mannum, about 75 minutes’ drive from Adelaide. A booking of at least two nights is recommended to gain most benefit from such an idyllic interlude. For more information or booking inquiries, contact River Dream Boatels, Level 2, 255 Pulteney St, Adelaide, SA, phone (08) 8223 3030, fax (08) 8223 3132, www.dreamboatel.com.au |