Thanks so much for your input Ngaire. You're JUST THE PERSON I wanted to hear from most! I think we're all on the same page...a pre or post safari of 4-6 days and the luxury of a cruise, hopefully to include Seychelles. From what I've been reading, the luxury tents do sound better than the actual hotel/lodges. The photos of some of these look really nice and it is all inclusive.

Although I've never been on Silverseas...I'm open to ships, time of year and region of Africa. The only requirement that Tom Cruise will have is nice accommodations, decent food and wine. (he doesn't even know about any of this yet. I'm afraid if I mention the words safari and tents, he'll envision something other than what it actually is so I'll continue doing the research and wait until the final proposal).

Of course I know about animals and the survival of the fittest etc., but seeing it actually happen must have been amazing! (Knowing me, I'll need a box of tissues).

The Kimmis are in S.C. but Kimmi told me once that this is something they'd want to do as well.
BTW, an acquaintance who is a well traveled TA told me that her trip to Africa (Tanzania) was her most memorable experience in all her 65 years!