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Are you planning your very first trip on a houseboat in Kerala? Welcome to the world of calm waters, coconut groves, and slow-moving bliss. Exotica Cruises is a passionate host of unforgettable journeys, and so we know how special your first experience on an Alappuzha houseboat will be. Listed below are the guidelines to help you enjoy the Kerala backwaters.
Pack Light, But Smart
The quarters on a houseboat are cozy, so don’t overpack. Lightweight cotton clothing, flip-flops, sunglasses, and suntan lotion are all essentials. A power bank, mosquito repellent, and a small flashlight might also come in handy. Most of the time, you will be relaxing, reading, or just gazing out at the water.
Know the Boarding Time
Our standard check-in time is noon, so try to reach the jetty by then to make the most of your day. Arriving late means missing the best parts of the cruise, like the golden hour cruise or warm welcome drink. We are always happy to help you plan transport if needed.
Don’t Miss the Local Flavors
The best thing about the houseboat experience is the food. You will be served fresh Kerala-style food right on board. Please inform us beforehand if you have preferences such as veg, non-veg, or mild spice. Nothing beats eating a warm lunch with the backwaters gently flowing beside you.
Enjoy the Pause at Dusk
At around 5:30 PM, houseboats anchor near village shores. You can take a walk through a nearby village, explore paddy fields, or try your hand at fishing. It’s moments like these that remind us why we are considered the best houseboat in Kerala.
Disconnect to Reconnect
Mobile signals can be patchy in some parts of the backwaters. Take this as a chance to unplug. Bring a book, some music, or just enjoy the peaceful silence. The real beauty lies in watching the skies change, birds skim the water, and boats pass by like poetry in motion.
Mornings Are Magical
If you are staying overnight, don’t sleep through the early hours. Mornings in the backwaters are quiet, misty, and full of life. Our cruises resume at 8:00 AM, so grab your tea, step onto the deck, and watch the world slowly wake up. It’s a sight you will want to carry home with you.
Respect the Waterways
The backwaters are a living, breathing ecosystem. Avoid throwing anything overboard, and be mindful of the local lifestyle around you. When we all travel responsibly, we help preserve the beauty that draws people here year after year.
Ask, Always
From safety briefings to adjusting your meals to planning a village stop, we have got you covered. Don’t hesitate to ask us anything. We want your time aboard to be as smooth and memorable as possible.
Exotica Cruises believes that a Kerala luxury houseboat experience is all about slowing down, connecting with nature, and creating memories that last, and we are here to make your first houseboat journey feel like coming home.