There's no need to leave the boat to get a glimpse of wildlife when you're on board the Zambezi Queen.

AmaWaterways' Stars of South Africa luxury cruise itinerary has been offered since 2013, and the boat has 14 rooms for up to 28 passengers.

"The amount of wildlife you see when you cruise down the river is out of this world," said Jake Schreiner, a product manager for AmaWaterways. "The concept is the animals are coming to you." He listed elephants, leopard, giraffes, lions, hippopotamuses and kudo as common animal sightings.

The 13-night itinerary starts in Cape Town, then passengers spend four nights on the boat as it makes its way down the Chobe River. After the cruise, travelers visit Victoria Falls, Johannesburg and Greater Kruger National Park.

The travel plans include private tours, wine tastings and safaris.

Cost: Starts at $12,895 per person*