boat service In alappuzha

Houseboats: Floating apartments best suited for relaxed day cruises or overnight stays. They come in Deluxe, Premium, and Luxury tiers. Shikara Boats / Motorboats: Smaller, open-sided traditional boats ideal for navigating narrow canals where large houseboats can't reach. Great for short 3–5 hour day trips. SWTD Government Ferries & Tourism Boats: Operated by the State Water Transport Department. These include ultra-budget local commuter ferries and specialized tourist boats like the VEGA Catamaran.

The main difference lies in the Air Conditioning (AC) operation and the overall amenities: Deluxe Houseboats: AC is strictly operational only during the night (usually from 9:00 PM to 6:00 AM). They offer a traditional, standard menu. ​Premium / Luxury Houseboats: AC runs 24 hours a day (full-time). They feature superior, plush interiors, premium glass views, and expanded gourmet menus. Some high-end options even include onboard Jacuzzis.

Overnight Houseboat Cruise: Check-in is typically between 11:30 AM and 12:00 PM. The boat cruises until 5:30 PM, anchors at a secure village shore for the night, and resumes sailing briefly the next morning before a 9:00 AM check-out. Day Houseboat Cruise: Check-in at 10:30 AM or 11:00 AM and check-out by 5:00 PM or 5:30 PM. ​Shikara / Canoe Boats: Highly flexible. They run anytime from 6:00 AM (Sunrise cruise) up to 6:30 PM (Sunset cruise).

By government regulation, all houseboats must anchor by 5:30 PM. This rule is strictly enforced to protect local fishermen who spread their fishing nets (cheena vala and drift nets) across the backwaters in the evening. Cruising after dark is prohibited for safety reasons.