Overnight Alleppey Houseboat Cruise Tour (Kerala Beauty)

Experience on the Water: A Review of the Overnight Alleppey Houseboat Cruise (Kerala Beauty)

Travelers looking for a peaceful, authentic way to explore Kerala’s famed backwaters often turn to houseboat cruises. This particular tour, offered by Shivaya Travel Hub, promises an intimate look at Kerala’s natural beauty and local life—though, as we’ll see, it has some notable pros and cons.

What we love about this experience is the chance to glide through lush green paddies and quaint villages, the opportunity to enjoy a freshly prepared Kerala-style meal on board, and the stunning sunset views that make the whole journey worthwhile. On the flip side, the overall review rating is quite low, and that suggests some travelers may face issues with the quality or expectations. This tour is best suited for those seeking a budget-friendly, straightforward experience rather than luxury or extensive sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Authentic Backwater Experience: The cruise offers an intimate glimpse of Kerala’s serene waterways and local rural life.
• Affordable Price Point: At just $43 per person, it provides a budget-friendly way to enjoy a houseboat stay.
• Limited Guiding Support: Unlike some other tours, this one doesn’t include a guide for sightseeing, making it more suitable for independent explorers.
• Stunning Sunset Views: The evening anchoring in scenic spots allows for memorable sunset moments.
• Simple Accommodation & Meals: The stay is on a deluxe houseboat with basic amenities, and meals are homemade Kerala cuisine.
• Mixed Reviews: Despite the appealing itinerary, the single review rates it poorly, so cautious booking is advised.

Introduction: What makes this tour stand out

If you’ve ever wanted to see Kerala’s iconic backwaters from a traditional houseboat—without breaking the bank—this tour might catch your eye. It’s a straightforward, overnight cruise that promises tranquil scenes and authentic local flavors, all for a reasonable price.

We like that it offers a simple yet peaceful introduction to Kerala’s waterway life. The highlights include a delicious Kerala-style lunch, stunning sunset views, and the gentle sounds of nature as you drift through rice paddies and coconut groves. For travelers seeking an immersive but no-fuss experience, this could be a good pick.

However, the low rating from the sole review suggests you should approach it with realistic expectations. The experience might be less polished or personalized than higher-end options, and some travelers found it less satisfying. Still, if you’re flexible and looking for an affordable way to get on the water, it could suit adventurous, budget-conscious travelers well.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on This Tour

Day 1: Arrival and Houseboat Boarding

Your journey begins with pickup from Cochin Airport or your hotel, followed by a scenic drive to Alleppey, the heart of Kerala’s backwaters. The drive itself is a bonus—expect views of lush greenery, local villages, and glimpses of Kerala’s rural lifestyle.

Once at Alleppey around 1 to 2 pm, you’ll check into your deluxe houseboat. This is where the experience turns into a laid-back cruise—your home for the night. The onboard crew will welcome you warmly, giving you a chance to settle into the vessel’s twin-sharing rooms, usually furnished with basic amenities.

The highlight at this stage is the Kerala-style lunch served onboard. Think fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and traditional flavors, all presented on the deck as you drift past endless rice paddies and coconut groves. It’s a feast that captures the essence of local cuisine.

Enchanting Scenery and Local Life

As the houseboat gently moves along the water, you’ll take in the sights of daily Kerala life—villagers bathing, fishing, and ferrying goods along the waterways. Many reviews mention how relaxing it is to watch the slow pace of life, making this a perfect escape from busy city life.

Your crew, often comprising just a few members, will navigate and assist but typically won’t offer guided commentary beyond the basics. This means you’re mostly on your own to soak in the views and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Sunset and Evening

When evening arrives, the houseboat will anchor at a scenic spot, giving you a front-row seat to Kerala’s famous sunsets. Picture a sky turning shades of orange and pink, reflecting over calm waters—truly a calming sight. You can sip on tea or coffee, complemented by traditional snacks, as the landscape transforms under the setting sun.

Dinner is usually served onboard, with Kerala cuisine prepared fresh by the onboard chef. Expect familiar flavors—coconut, curry spices, rice, and possibly seafood if you’re near the coast. Afterward, you’ll settle in for an overnight stay on the houseboat, lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of water and breeze.

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Day 2: Return and Departure

Morning begins with the soothing sounds of nature waking up. A leisurely breakfast allows you to enjoy the calm surroundings before the cruise continues for a few hours. You might get a last look at rural life along the banks, with chances to take photos and reflect on the experience.

By late morning, around 9 or 10 am, you’ll check out and head back to Cochin. The drive is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, during which you can review your memories and perhaps plan your next adventure in Kerala.

Is This Tour Worth It?

While the price of $43 per person seems attractive—especially considering meals and transportation are included—the experience’s value depends on your expectations. The low review score indicates some travelers might be disappointed, particularly if they’re looking for a more polished or guided experience.

However, this tour offers a cost-effective way to get on Kerala’s waterways, with the chance to see authentic village life and enjoy tranquil scenery. It’s best suited for budget travelers, first-time visitors wanting an introduction, or those wanting a simple overnight escape rather than luxury accommodations.

What We Appreciated

Stunning Views: The highlight for many is the peaceful, scenic environment. Watching the sunset over the backwaters is a moment that feels genuinely Kerala.

Authentic Cuisine: The meals onboard are cooked fresh and reflect local flavors, giving a taste of Kerala’s culinary traditions.

Relaxed Pace: Without guides or complicated schedules, you can unwind and simply enjoy the natural surroundings at your own pace.

Budget-Friendly: For just $43, this is among the more affordable ways to experience a houseboat cruise in Alleppey.

Potential Drawbacks

Low Review Rating: The sole review rates this experience poorly, citing possible issues with service or expectations not being met.

Limited Guidance: There’s no guided sightseeing, which might leave travelers wanting more detailed explanations of sights or local culture.

Basic Amenities: Accommodation is simple, and luxury is not a feature here. If you’re expecting high-end comfort, this isn’t the tour for you.

Timing and Group Size: The schedule is fixed, and the experience is private for your booking group; larger groups may need to coordinate accordingly.

Practical Tips for Booking and Enjoying

• Bring comfortable clothes, a hat, and sun protection, especially for daytime cruising.
• Carry your passport or ID, as it’s needed for check-in.
• Alcohol and drugs are not permitted onboard, so plan accordingly.
• Be prepared for the possibility of basic amenities and limited onboard guidance.
• If you prefer separate rooms in a group of three, check for extra charges.

The Sum Up

This overnight Alleppey houseboat tour offers a straightforward, budget-friendly introduction to Kerala’s famed backwaters. With scenic views, authentic cuisine, and a relaxed pace, it’s ideal for travelers seeking a simple yet memorable escape. However, the low review rating suggests it might not meet all expectations, particularly for those wanting a more polished or guided experience.

If you’re flexible, appreciative of authentic local environments, and looking for an affordable way to float through Kerala’s tranquil waterways, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that the experience may be basic, and managing expectations is key.

For anyone who values scenery over luxury and is comfortable with a no-frills approach, this trip provides a taste of Kerala’s beauty without a hefty price tag.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a guided tour?
No, the tour doesn’t include a guide for sightseeing. The houseboat rider assists during the cruise, but you won’t have detailed explanations or guided commentary.

What meals are included?
You’ll receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard if you choose the meal options. All meals are Kerala-style cuisine, prepared fresh by the onboard chef.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $43 per person, making it an affordable option for experiencing the backwaters without added luxury.

What is the accommodation like?
Staying on a deluxe houseboat, your rooms are generally twin-sharing, with basic amenities. The focus is on comfort over luxury.

How long is the cruise?
The overnight cruise starts in the afternoon, continues through sunset, and ends the following morning after breakfast, roughly 24 hours.

What are the main highlights?
Expect scenic views of rice paddies, coconut groves, local villages, and a stunning sunset over the water.

Are there any extra charges?
All taxes, tolls, and fuel are included. Extra costs may occur for personal expenses, tips, or optional add-ons.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour isn’t specifically designed for children with mobility impairments and involves boat cruising, so consider their comfort and safety.

What should I bring?
Pack comfortable clothes, sun protection, your ID, and perhaps a camera to capture the scenery.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

This straightforward cruise provides a peaceful way to experience Kerala’s iconic waterways. While it may fall short in luxury or guided insights, it offers a genuine, budget-friendly taste of the region’s natural beauty and local life.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby