- ‘guests to switch channels on their wireless headphones between soul, jazz, RnB, hip hop, local music and various house subgenres’
Kasane is gearing up for a groundbreaking entertainment experience as the first-ever Silent Disco Boat Cruise prepares to launch on December 13, along the iconic Chobe River.
Event organiser Benedict Tatolo of World Style, in collaboration with Big Bang Events, says the initiative marks a major step forward in eco-friendly tourism and premium nightlife experiences in Botswana.
Attendees can expect a luxury experience that stretches far beyond a typical river cruise. Tatolo describes it as “a truly one-of-a-kind experience… far beyond a standard boat cruise.” The event will be hosted aboard the Royal Isaan, a 100-seater African Odyssey vessel, and will feature three DJs playing different genres simultaneously—allowing guests to switch channels on their wireless headphones between soul, jazz, RnB, hip hop, local music and various house subgenres. Guests will also enjoy complimentary beverages, platters, snacks, water and coffee, along with a 360° photo booth, professional photography, videography, and a four-hour guided cruise offering immersive nature exposure.
According to him, “the main inspiration behind launching the first-ever Silent Disco Boat Cruise along the Chobe River was to introduce an innovative, eco-friendly entertainment experience that aligns with the unique biodiversity of the Chobe region.” He explained that the silent disco format was deliberately chosen because it allows guests to enjoy high-quality entertainment “without disturbing wildlife,” making it ideal for such a sensitive and internationally treasured environment.
The event has already gained remarkable traction regionally, with ticket demand surging across Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Namibia. Tatolo attributes this to a strong mix of digital and community-driven marketing. He said, “Our Facebook page… has been the most effective platform,” further noting that targeted online promotions, influencer partnerships, support from local authorities and tourism stakeholders, as well as physical ticket access at Savannah Lifestyle Pub and Restaurant, all contributed to the rapid increase in interest. He emphasised that these efforts helped “build trust and excitement, resulting in rapid ticket uptake from multiple cities.”
The DJ lineup includes Swag Kids DJs from Gaborone, DJ Mr Rural and DJ Rindo from Kasane, DJ Fatso from Victoria Falls, DJ Munya from Harare and others. After the cruise, attendees will be treated to a VIP afterparty at Savannah Lifestyle Pub and Restaurant, which will be marking its one-year anniversary with international DJs, premium braai, wine tasting and other upscale activities.
Bringing such a pioneering idea to life was not without its challenges. Tatolo explained that one of the biggest obstacles was public unfamiliarity with the silent disco concept itself.
“Many people had never experienced or heard of a silent disco let alone one hosted on a river,” he said, noting that the team had to conduct extensive presentations to government departments, parastatals, the business community and residents to help them appreciate the benefits. The approval process was equally demanding, requiring almost a year to secure environmental permits and legal documentation due to the sensitivity of the Chobe ecosystem.
“However, this thoroughness was important to ensure full compliance and environmental responsibility,” Tatolo affirmed. To bridge the knowledge gap and generate excitement, the team used digital communication, video presentations and social media to educate communities about the event.
With the inaugural edition limited to just 65 tickets, and only a few remaining, the overwhelming interest has already inspired future expansion. Tatolo revealed, “Our long-term plan is to maintain the maiden edition on the same date annually,” establishing it as a signature tourism and entertainment highlight for Kasane. He added that the concept will also be extended to major national events such as the Kazungula Bridge Marathon, the Botswana Travel and Tourism Expo and the Maun Horse Race. The team is also exploring opportunities to bring the Silent Disco Boat Cruise to other water bodies, including Maun and the Gaborone Dam, to ensure wider national access to the innovative entertainment experience.
In concluding his remarks, Tatolo emphasised the broader impact of the initiative, saying the Silent Disco Boat Cruise represents “a groundbreaking step in redefining entertainment and tourism experiences in Botswana.” With full licensing from the Department of Wildlife and National Parks and the Department of Environmental Affairs, support from the Chobe District Council, Two Rivers Hotel, The Ngami Times, and a partnership with Savannah Lifestyle Pub and Restaurant, the event is built on strong community and regulatory foundations. Accreditation with the Botswana Tourism Organization is underway, and more stakeholders continue to show interest.
He believes the event will significantly enhance nighttime tourism options in regions like Chobe and Ngamiland, where evening activities are limited. Tatolo noted that this eco-friendly and unforgettable experience could extend tourist stays, reduce nighttime departures to Victoria Falls and Livingstone, and strengthen Botswana’s position as a modern, competitive tourism destination. He described the initiative as “a bold, timely, and transformative addition to the local tourism landscape, one that promises lasting impact.”
