Summary
Not sure a houseboat stay is worth your time and money? This guide gives you an honest look at what you get, who it suits and who might prefer a hotel. You'll also find the full schedule, category tips and answers to common questions.
Everyone recommends a trip to Kerala by houseboat, but no one tells you how it really is. Is it a pleasant experience, or will you feel bored? Are you getting value for your money, or is it just a chance to take a good picture? If you are asking yourself if a holiday in Alleppey houseboat should be on your agenda, then you've got the right questions in mind. At Exotica Houseboat Cruises, we have guests everyday, and we prefer our clients to know what to expect from their holidays.
So, Is It Really Worth It?
Yes, of course, for the majority of travelers this is definitely true, especially if you are looking for a leisurely cruise that offers privacy and scenic views. It’s not only about paying for a room, but for an experience altogether.
Here is what typically comes with it:
- A boat and crew dedicated to your group
- A welcome drink on arrival
- Lunch, evening tea with snacks, dinner and breakfast
- Time cruising the backwaters, including a one-hour morning cruise
- An overnight stay anchored by the riverside
- Drop-off at the same boarding point
Please confirm the exact inclusions for your chosen package when you enquire.
What Does It Feel Like Onboard?
Very quiet, most of the time. Most tourists feel that the first hour aboard an Alleppey house boat is the one where their tensions vanish. There is no noise from traffic, no lines to join at the reception desk, no timetable to keep up with. Just sit back and enjoy the view while your surroundings pass by.
The inside of our boats is beautifully decorated, with plenty of lounging space and large windows giving you access to the sights. We take care of everything else for you.
What Does a Typical Overnight Cruise Look Like?
Day One
- 12:00 pm: Check-in with a welcome drink
- 1:30 to 2:30 pm: Lunch, veg or non-veg
- 4:00 pm: Tea or coffee with snacks
- 5:30 pm: The boat anchors by the riverside, and you can enjoy a village walk, a paddy field visit or fishing
- 8:00 to 9:00 pm: Dinner
- 10:30 pm: Bedtime
The Next Morning
- 7:30 am: Breakfast
- 8:00 am: A one-hour morning cruise through the backwaters
- 9:00 am: Check-out and drop-off at the boarding point
How Does It Compare With a Hotel?
If you're weighing the two, here is how an Alleppey houseboat stacks up against a regular hotel stay:
- Scenery: Changing views all day, versus one fixed window
- Privacy: Your own boat and crew, versus shared lobbies and corridors
- Food: Meals cooked on board, versus a restaurant menu
- Activities: Cruising, village walks and sunsets, versus a pool or gym
- Space: Hotels often offer more room and facilities, while houseboats offer a one-of-a-kind experience
However, if you seek a travel experience unlike any city vacation, a houseboat offers some serious advantages. Alternatively, if you are seeking luxury and space, then a hotel might be more your style.
Who Will Love It, and Who May Not?
Being honest about this saves you from a mismatched booking.
A houseboat is a great fit for:
- Couples and honeymooners looking for privacy
- Families who want to spend relaxed time together
- Friends and groups celebrating something special
- First-time visitors to Kerala who want a classic experience
You may want to think twice if:
- You prefer a packed itinerary with constant activity
- You need large rooms and a full range of hotel facilities
- You are uneasy about being on the water overnight
Which Category Gives You the Best Value?
Value depends on how you plan to spend your time.
We offer four classes:
- Deluxe: A practical, comfortable way to enjoy the core backwater experience
- Premium: A step up in comfort, popular with families and small groups
- Luxury: Richer interiors and a more polished stay
- Super Luxury: Our top tier, ideal for honeymoons, anniversaries and celebrations
A simple rule: If you will be spending most of the time in the deck then lower class is a good choice but for a special occasion higher class should be selected.
Each class is available in one to six bedroom versions:
- 1 bedroom: couples
- 2 bedrooms: small families or two couples
- 3 to 4 bedrooms: extended families and friend groups
- 5 to 6 bedrooms: reunions and large gatherings
What Can Make or Break the Experience?
Small choices make a big difference.
Keep these in mind:
- Book early: October to March is popular for pleasant weather, and weekends fill quickly
- Match the boat to your group: an overcrowded boat feels very different from a comfortable one
- Ask about inclusions: confirm meals, timings and extras before you pay
- Share special needs: tell us about children, seniors or dietary preferences
- Read genuine reviews: look for consistent comments about service and hospitality
The monsoon is also worth considering. It brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, though rain can affect plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Alleppey houseboat good for first-time visitors?
Yes. It's one of the easiest ways to experience Kerala's backwaters, because the crew handles everything. You simply board, relax and enjoy.
Is it safe to stay overnight?
Yes, with a reliable operator. Experienced crews anchor in calm stretches at night. Always ask about safety arrangements, including life jackets, before booking.
Are meals included?
Our schedule includes a welcome drink, lunch, evening tea with snacks, dinner and breakfast. Please confirm exact inclusions when you enquire.
Can vegetarians and non-vegetarians both be catered for?
Yes. Lunch is served in both veg and non-veg options.
What are the check-in and check-out times?
Check-in is at 12:00 pm and check-out is at 9:00 am.
Can I upgrade my category after booking?
Often, yes, subject to availability. One of our guests upgraded from Deluxe to Luxury at the last moment. Contact us as early as you can.
What should I pack?
Light cotton clothes, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, a camera, a power bank and any personal medicines.
How much does it cost?
Pricing depends on the category, number of bedrooms and season. Visit the Tariff page on our website or call us for a quote.
How do I book?
Call +91 9895683066, use the quick enquiry form on our website, or message us on WhatsApp.
Final thoughts
The Alleppey Houseboat provides a worthwhile vacation if you are looking for something leisurely and interesting. This is because of the entire trip experience of food, privacy, the evening halt and dawn cruise. It’s important that you pick out the right category and match up the rooms with the right number of people.
Exotica Houseboat Cruises is ready to help you plan every detail. Call +91 9895683066 or email exoticacruises@gmail.com, and we'll help you set up the perfect backwater escape.