Houseboats
The Ultimate Backwater Experience with Cars and Tours Kerala
At Cars and Tours Kerala, we bring you the best handpicked houseboats in Alleppey, with personalized service, flexible options, and 5-star-rated support. Let’s dive into everything you ever wanted to know about houseboats in Alleppey.
What Is a Houseboat in Alleppey?
Houseboats in Kerala, locally known as Kettuvallams, are beautifully crafted wooden boats that have been modernized into floating villas. They come with cozy bedrooms, attached bathrooms, dining areas, lounges, open decks, and a dedicated crew to cater to your needs. Cruising in a houseboat is the best way to explore the unique backwater ecosystem of Kerala, experience village life, and relax in luxury.
Types of Houseboats
✅ Air Conditioning: Fixed timing (usually from 9 PM to 6 AM).
✅ Interiors: Basic but neat and clean with traditional wooden decor.
✅ Meals: Standard Kerala-style meals are included.
✅ Welcome Drink & Evening Tea with Snacks are included.
✅ Best for: Budget travellers, couples, and families looking for value.
✅ Air Conditioning: Available full-time, only in the Bed Room.
✅ Interiors: More spacious with modern furnishing and glass-panel windows.
✅ Meals: Premium 2 Non-Veg Kerala-style meals are included.
✅ Welcome Drink & Evening Tea with Snacks are included.
✅ Add-ons: Better crockery, quality bed linen, and enhanced comfort.
✅ Best for: Guests seeking comfort with a mid-range budget.
✅ Air Conditioning: Central or full-time split A/c.
✅ Interiors: Plush hotel-like interiors, fine dining, en-suite bathrooms with modern fittings, wooden flooring, and private lounges.
✅ Meals: Premium 3 Non-Veg Kerala-style meals are included.
✅ Welcome Drink & Evening Tea with Snacks are included.
✅ Add-ons: Personalized service, fruit baskets, candlelight dinners (on request).
✅ Best for: Honeymoons, special occasions, celebrities, high-end clients.
What’s on the Menu?
Your stay includes freshly prepared meals on board using local ingredients:
✔️ Boiled Eggs or Omelettes
✔️ Bread with Butter & Jam
✔️ Seasonal Fruits
✔️ Tea/Coffee
✔️ Sambar, Thoran, Aviyal
✔️ Fish Fry (Karimeen/Pearl Spot)
✔️ Pappadam & Pickles
✔️ Payasam (Dessert)
✔️ Tea/Coffee
✔️ Chicken or Veg Curry
✔️ Mixed Veg Stir Fry
✔️ Rice or Jeera Rice
✔️ Dessert
Types of Houseboats Available at Alleppey
We offer customized boats based on group size:
| Houseboat(s) | Pax | EB per room |
| 1 Bedroom | 2 | 1 |
| 2 Bedroom | 4 | 1 |
| 3 Bedroom | 6 | 1 |
| 4 Bedroom | 8 | 1 |
| 5 Bedroom | 10 | 1 |
| 6 Bedroom | 12 | 1 |
| 7 Bedroom | 14 | 1 |
| 8 Bedroom | 16 | 1 |
| 10 Bedroom | 20 | 1 |
| 12 Bedroom | 24 | 1 |
| 14 Bedroom | 28 | 1 |
Upgrade Options
You can upgrade your Deluxe boat to Premium or Luxury by:
- Opting for full-time A/c
- Adding décor elements like flower beds or candles
- Including luxury dining and customized food options
Talk to our travel expert to help you choose and customize your boat based on your preferences and budget.
What Is a Day Cruise?
A Day Cruise typically starts at 11:00 AM and ends by 5:00 PM without any overnight stay. Ideal for guests short on time or staying in Alleppey hotels/resorts.
Includes:
- Welcome drink
- Lunch and evening tea
- 4-5 hours cruising through backwaters
Celebrations and Events at Alleppey Houseboat
Houseboats are a unique venue for hosting:
- Birthdays & Anniversaries
- Wedding Proposals & Honeymoons
- Baptism Functions
- Family Get-togethers
- Leisure & Friends’ Reunions
- Corporate Retreats & Business Conferences
- Karaoke Music Nights & DJ Evenings
- Traditional Kerala Themes with Flower Decor & Cultural Performances (on request)
Let us know your special event, and we’ll handle décor, cakes, music, photography, and anything else to make it memorable!
Typical Houseboat Route in Alleppey
A typical cruise route includes:
- Punnamada Lake (site of Nehru Trophy Boat Race)
- Vembanad Lake
- Kuttanad Region – the rice bowl of Kerala
- Champakulam
- Nedumudy
- Karumady
- Pulinkunnu
- R Block and C Block islands
*Cruise ends at 5 PM for all overnight boats as per government rules.
Important Guidelines for Guests
- Bring your liquor if you wish; consume responsibly.
- Stay cautious near water areas, especially with children.
- Do not venture into the deck after dark without crew permission.
- Smoking is allowed in designated outdoor areas only.
- Cooperate with the crew and follow onboard safety rules.
Why are houseboats more expensive, especially during weekends and public holidays?
The high demand for houseboats during weekends and public holidays significantly impacts their pricing. Many locals seize these days to relax and enjoy the serene backwaters, leading to the scarcity of available boats. To enjoy better pricing, plan your stay on weekdays when demand is lower. Additionally, booking your houseboat well in advance is crucial, especially during peak seasons. This ensures access to a wider selection of boats, avoiding last-minute options that are often priced three to five times or even higher and may not meet quality expectations.
Trusted operators with higher ratings and established reputations often charge a premium price due to their quality of service and reliable experience.
What is a shared houseboat?
Trusted operators with higher ratings and established reputations often charge a premium price due to their quality of service and reliable experience.
What are the advantages of a shared houseboat?
Is Wi-Fi available in houseboats?
Generally, no. It’s a chance to disconnect and enjoy nature. However, some Luxury boats offer limited connectivity.
Are houseboats safe for children and the elderly?
Are vegetarian or Jain meals available?
Is there a medical emergency setup?
Can we swim in the backwaters?
Can I book a houseboat for a group celebration?
What is the best time for a houseboat cruise?
Are children allowed onboard?
What are the nearby attractions at Alleppey?
Alleppey Beach: Famous for its pier and tranquil vibe.
Krishnapuram Palace: A historical treasure showcasing Kerala architecture.
Ambalapuzha Temple: Known for its exquisite architecture and delicious palpayasam (sweet milk pudding).
Pathiramanal Island: A haven for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Marari Beach: A serene stretch of coastline perfect for relaxation.
Nehru Trophy Boat Race Area: Mention the historical significance of this annual event.
What are the extra activities at Alleppey?
Village Tours: Exploring rural life, paddy fields, and toddy tapping.
Canoeing and Shikara Rides: For a more intimate backwater exploration.
Fishing with Local Communities: A hands-on experience of Kerala’s traditional fishing techniques.
What are the Must-Try Local Dishes at Alleppey?
Alleppey’s culinary heritage is a delightful fusion of coastal flavors, spices, and traditional Kerala cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes that embody the essence of this region:
Karimeen Pollichathu (Pearl Spot Fish)
This iconic dish features fresh pearl spot fish marinated in a blend of spices, wrapped in banana leaves, and slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a true backwater delicacy.
Chemmeen Curry (Prawns Curry)
A delectable prawn curry prepared with coconut milk, tamarind, and an aromatic mix of spices. Best paired with steamed rice or appams.
Kerala Sadya
A grand vegetarian feast served on a banana leaf, Sadya includes rice, curries like sambar and avial, side dishes, pickles, and desserts like payasam. It’s a must-try, especially during festivals.
Appam and Stew
Soft, lacy rice pancakes (appam) paired with a mildly spiced coconut-based stew, typically made with chicken, mutton, or vegetables.
Duck Roast
A unique dish from the region, duck is slow-cooked with spices and coconut, resulting in a rich and flavourful roast that is perfect for special occasions.
Tharavu Curry (Duck Curry)
Another duck specialty, this dish features tender meat in a spicy, thick gravy, ideal with traditional rice or parotta.
Puttu and Kadala Curry
A breakfast staple, puttu (steamed rice flour cylinders) is paired with kadala (black chickpea) curry. The combination is hearty and delicious.
Kappa and Meen Curry
Kappa (tapioca) is a beloved food in Kerala, and when paired with a fiery meen curry (fish curry), it becomes an unforgettable dish.
Kozhi Varuthathu (Fried Chicken)
A spicy and crispy chicken fry, marinated with traditional spices. It’s an Alleppey specialty for those who enjoy bold flavours.
Banana Chips and Sharkara Varatti
Fried banana chips and sharkara varatti (jaggery-coated banana chips) are classic snacks that you’ll find in Alleppey markets.
Toddy
While not a dish, toddy (a traditional palm wine) is a popular beverage in Alleppey. It’s often enjoyed with spicy seafood and tapioca dishes.
Desserts:
Palada Payasam
A creamy rice dessert made with milk, sugar, and cardamom.
Unniyappam
Sweet rice fritters flavoured with jaggery, coconut, and bananas.
Each of these dishes reflects the rich cultural and culinary traditions of Alleppey. For the best experience, seek out local toddy shops or houseboat chefs who prepare these authentic recipes with passion and flair! Let me know if you’d like to explore recipes or dining locations.
Why Book with Cars and Tours Kerala?
- 5-star-rated Rated Tour Operator with 11 Years of Experience
- Best Prices for Handpicked Houseboats
- Direct Tie-Ups with Top Boat Operators in Alleppey
- Customized Itineraries, Personal Support, & Hassle-Free Booking
- Verified Boats, Trusted Crews, and Dedicated Travel Experts