Kerala deluxe houseboat
A Kerala deluxe houseboat cruise (typically operating out of Alappuzha/Alleppey or Kumarakom) offers a quintessential backwater experience. Below are the detailed package inclusions, typical schedules, and frequently asked questions.
Overview of a Deluxe Houseboat Package
- Standard Timings:
- Check-in: 12:00 PM
- Check-out: 9:00 AM (the following morning)
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- Cruising Schedule: Cruising generally runs from 12:00 PM to 5:30 PM (with a break for lunch) and resumes the next morning from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM. By government regulation, houseboats must anchor safely by 5:30 PM and cannot cruise after dark.
- Crew on Board: Every private houseboat comes with a dedicated crew—typically a captain/navigator, an engine operator, and a private chef who prepares fresh meals on board.
What’s Included
- Accommodation: A private, fully furnished traditional wooden houseboat with attached modern bathrooms.
- Air Conditioning (AC): In standard Deluxe category boats, bedroom AC is typically operational during night hours (usually from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM or 8:00 PM to 7:00 AM to manage generator loads).
- All Meals (Full Board):
- Welcome Drink: Tender coconut or fresh juice
- Lunch: Traditional Kerala rice/pathiri with fish/chicken curry, vegetable dishes, dal, and papad
- Evening Snacks: Tea/coffee with traditional snacks (like banana fries/pazhampori)
- Dinner: Chappatis, white rice, chicken/paneer dishes, and sides
- Breakfast: Bread, butter, jam, eggs, and traditional Kerala items like appam/idli with sambar
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the difference between Deluxe, Premium, and Luxury houseboats?
- Deluxe Houseboats: Feature comfortable wood-paneled interiors with standard room sizes. AC in deluxe rooms is usually time-controlled (active during night hours). Ideal for value-focused travelers.
- Premium / Luxury Houseboats: Feature more modern or heritage-style aesthetic upgrades, larger lounging spaces, and unlimited AC availability throughout your stay.
2. Can we choose our own food menu or request vegetarian/Jain options?
Yes. Traditional Kerala non-vegetarian and vegetarian meals are standard, but if you require pure vegetarian, Jain, or specific dietary modifications (such as less spicy food for children), you can request them in advance when booking. Special seafood items (like fresh prawns or karimeen/pearl spot fish) can also be arranged on prior notice.
3. Why does the houseboat stop moving at 5:30 PM?
According to Kerala Port Department and government regulations, overnight movement on backwater canals is restricted to prevent net tangling with local fishermen and ensure passenger safety. The boat anchors securely by the bank or lake edge for the night, allowing you to relax, enjoy the sunset, or take a quiet evening walk in the local village.
4. Are houseboats shared with other travelers?
No. When you book a houseboat, you book the entire boat exclusively for your group or family. You will not share the boat or dining spaces with strangers.
5. What should I carry on board?
- Personal clothing, toiletries, and medications.
- Mosquito repellent (recommended for the evening hours).
- Valid government-issued photo ID (Aadhaar, Passport, or Voter ID) for all adult guests, which is mandatory for police/tourism registration at check-in.
6. How far in advance should I book?
Booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially during peak tourist season (October to March) and weekends, to secure well-maintained boats and preferred bedroom configurations (1-bedroom for couples up to multi-bedroom boats for larger families).