Drift through Alleppey's legendary emerald backwaters on a private traditional kettuvallam houseboat — rice paddies, coconut groves, and village life gliding past in absolute serenity. This is Kerala at its most iconic and unhurried.
What to expect
Board your wooden houseboat at Alleppey (Alappuzha) jetty and slip into a labyrinth of canals flanked by swaying palms and paddy fields. A dedicated chef prepares an authentic Kerala thali using locally sourced fish and spices, served on the open deck. You'll pass children playing on canal banks, fishermen casting nets, and tiny Hindu shrines adorned with marigolds. The two-hour drive each way from Cochin port is well worth it — this is the landscape that defines Kerala.
Good to know
Alleppey is approximately 85 km (2 hrs) from Cochin cruise terminal — arrange a private car transfer. A half-day cruise (4–5 hrs on water) fits comfortably within a port day; confirm all-aboard time before booking. Pre-book directly at least 2 weeks ahead, especially Nov–Mar peak season.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Cochin — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Cochin
- Kathakali Masterclass at Great K V Kathakali Centre, Fort Kochi
- Kathakali & Kalaripayattu: Kerala's Sacred Performing Arts Masterclass
- Fort Kochi Heritage Walk: Dutch Palace, Synagogue & Jew Town Spice Market
- Kerala Folklore Museum: Private Expert-Led Heritage Deep-Dive
- Kerala Cooking Class & Spice Garden: Secrets of a Master Home Chef
- Backwater Luxury: Private Houseboat Journey Through Kerala's Canals
- Athirappally Waterfall & Rainforest: Kerala's Niagara by Private Car
- Chinese Fishing Nets at Dawn: Private Sunrise Photography Experience