Alappuzha Backwaters in Private Houseboat with Lunch, Pick & Drop

Experience the Best of Kochi and Alappuzha’s Backwaters on a Private Houseboat Tour

Taking a day to explore Kochi and the surrounding Kerala backwaters offers a unique blend of cultural sights and tranquil waterways. This private tour, designed primarily for cruise ship passengers, combines city highlights with a peaceful houseboat cruise — perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see the best of Kerala. While the experience offers flexibility, beautiful scenery, and an authentic meal, it’s important to note that the itinerary can be quite packed, especially if you’re not a fan of long transfers or early mornings.

What we truly appreciate about this tour is the personalized attention you get from the dedicated guide and the convenience of pickup and drop-off directly at your cruise terminal. The inclusion of a traditional Sadya lunch on the houseboat adds a genuine taste of Kerala cuisine, which is often a highlight. A potential consideration is the long transfer from Kochi to Alleppey, which might be less appealing if your time ashore is very tight or if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This experience is ideal for cruise travelers, first-time visitors wanting a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of Kerala, or those with a curiosity for rural Indian life mixed with scenic waterways. If your goal is to experience both the city’s vibrancy and the peaceful backwaters in one day, this tour is a good fit.

Key Points

• Flexible itineraries allow for city highlights or tranquil backwater cruises based on your interests
• Convenient pickup and drop-off save time and effort navigating unfamiliar areas
• Authentic Kerala cuisine included with a traditional Sadya lunch on the houseboat
• Authentic backwater views passing through rice fields, palm groves, and rivers
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Group size limitations ensure a personalized experience for your party

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pick-up and Initial Transfer

The tour begins with a timed pickup, either directly from the Kochi cruise terminal or your hotel in Fort Kochi or Ernakulam. This is a true advantage for cruise travelers, especially considering the hassle of arranging local transport on your own. The guide or staff from Excel India Tours will meet you promptly, making sure you’re ready to maximize your day.

The drive from Kochi to Alleppey typically takes around two hours, offering a glimpse into Kerala’s charming countryside. Expect to pass through villages with traditional homes, bustling markets, and lush greenery. This initial segment sets the tone for the day, as you transition from urban sights to the serene backwaters.

Visiting Fort Kochi and Ernakulam

If your itinerary includes the city highlights, you’ll be taken through Fort Kochi, famous for its colonial architecture, vibrant streets, and Chinese Fishing Nets. Here, you can interact with local fishermen and even operate the nets yourself — a fun, interactive experience that adds a personal touch to the sightseeing.

Alternatively, if you’re staying in Ernakulam, you’ll be picked up from there, and your guide will tailor the experience accordingly. While these stops are brief (about 15 minutes each), they pack in some of the most iconic sights. The guide’s insights are particularly valuable here, especially if they are as knowledgeable as some reviewers mention.

Pallathuruthy Bridge and the Houseboat Transfer

The highlight of the trip for many is the drive to the backwaters at Pallathuruthy Bridge, which acts as a gateway to Kerala’s famed waterways. From here, you’ll board a private houseboat exclusively reserved for your group. This transition from land to water is quite special, offering a different perspective on Kerala’s lifestyle.

The boat is spacious and comfortable, with a friendly crew on hand. As you settle into the lobby area, you’ll notice the stunning vistas of rice fields, palm trees, and narrow canals. The scenery is picture-perfect, with lush greenery lining the waterways, and the slow pace of the boat providing ample opportunity for photos and quiet reflection.

The Backwater Cruise

The core of this experience is the three-hour cruise along the Kerala backwaters. Travelers will pass through waterways studded with rice paddies, coconut groves, and small villages. It’s a peaceful, almost meditative experience — a chance to see local life unfold from the comfort of your boat.

One review highlights that the guide was very helpful and friendly, making the cruise even more enjoyable. Passengers can expect to see fishermen working with traditional methods and possibly even spot some local wildlife. The boat’s calm pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities, and many find the views surprisingly beautiful, especially as the sun filters through the palm fronds.

Lunch on the Houseboat

A unique feature of this tour is the included buffet Sadya lunch served on the boat. The meal features fish, chicken, rice, and traditional Kerala accompaniments. Reviewers mention that the food is delicious and plentiful, with one noting that the meal was served with “plenty of plates” and was very satisfying.

However, a reviewer also noted some minor discomforts — like small bananas with ants at the end of the meal. While such issues are rare, they serve as a reminder to always check your surroundings when eating outdoors or in rural settings.

Return to Kochi and Final Sightseeing

After the cruise, the tour continues back towards Kochi, with a stop at Fort Kochi Beach. Here, you’ll see the famous Chinese Fishing Nets in action and have the chance to interact with fishermen, try operating the nets, and take memorable photos. The guide might also share snippets of local fishing traditions, making this a lively and engaging end to your day.

If your itinerary is set for city highlights, this is a good moment to stretch your legs and soak in the coastal atmosphere before your transfer back to the cruise or hotel.

Analyzing the Experience

Value for Money

At $200 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package, including hotel pickup, a scenic backwater cruise, lunch, and local guiding. Considering the included transportation and the private, personalized nature of the houseboat experience, many travelers find this to be good value — especially for cruise passengers wanting a hassle-free day.

The fact that it’s booked well in advance (average booking time of 149 days) shows its popularity among travelers seeking a curated Kerala experience.

The Guide and Authenticity

Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who add depth to the trip. Their insights help you understand not just the scenery but also the local way of life, making the experience richer and more meaningful. The guide’s friendliness and helpfulness seem to stand out, creating a more personalized atmosphere.

Scenic and Cultural Highlights

Expect stunning views on the backwaters, especially if you’re a photography enthusiast. The calm waterways lined with palm trees and rice fields provide a picturesque backdrop. Meanwhile, the city stops give a taste of Kerala’s colonial past and fishing traditions.

Practical Considerations

Timing is key. The tour is designed to sync with cruise schedules, but you’ll want to ensure your ship’s docking times align well with the pickup. The long drive from Kochi to Alleppey might be tiring for some, especially if your time ashore is limited. However, the convenience of door-to-door service and the private nature of the boat make it worthwhile for many.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for cruise passengers or visitors short on time but eager to see both Kerala’s vibrant city life and tranquil waterways. It’s perfect if you value personalized service, authentic local cuisine, and scenic views. Those who enjoy guided experiences and cultural insights will find this a rewarding option. However, travelers looking for a more relaxed, less packed day may find the itinerary a bit hectic.

The Sum Up

This private houseboat tour from Kochi offers a fantastic snapshot of Kerala’s diverse charms — from the bustling streets of Fort Kochi to the serene backwaters of Alappuzha. The combination of city highlights, scenic waterways, and traditional cuisine makes it a well-rounded experience. The knowledgeable guides and convenient pickup are big pluses, especially for cruise travelers who want to maximize their time ashore without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar transport.

While some may find the long transfers and packed schedule a little tiring, most agree the scenery, cultural insights, and authentic meal make it worthwhile. It’s a great way to experience Kerala’s essence in a single day, perfect for those seeking a meaningful, guided adventure.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate private, curated experiences and want to combine sightseeing with relaxation on the water. If you’re after a straightforward, well-organized way to taste Kerala’s highlights with comfort and ease, this is a strong contender.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off, either from the Kochi cruise terminal or your nearby hotel, making it very convenient for cruise passengers.

How long does the entire tour last?
Approximately 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, sightseeing, and the backwater cruise.

Can I choose between different itineraries?
Yes, you can select a comprehensive city tour of Kochi or a focused three-hour backwater cruise, depending on your interests.

What is included in the lunch?
A traditional Sadya buffet featuring fish, chicken, and Kerala-style accompaniments. It is served on the houseboat during the cruise.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews mention guides as being friendly and very helpful, enhancing the overall experience with local insights.

What scenery can I expect on the backwater cruise?
Expect tranquil waterways, rice fields, coconut palms, and small villages—classic Kerala views.

Is this experience suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the long transfers and boat ride. It’s best for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

Are there group discounts?
The tour offers group discounts, making it more economical for larger parties.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund; cancellations less than that are not refunded.

Is this experience good value?
Considering the inclusive meal, private transportation, and scenic boat cruise, many find it offers good value, especially for cruise visitors wanting a comprehensive introduction to Kerala.