Sailing through the tranquil backwaters of Kerala aboard a traditional houseboat is one of India’s most iconic and unforgettable travel experiences. But with hundreds of options available, travelers often wonder: How do I choose the best houseboat in Alleppey? From luxury cruises to cozy budget boats, here's everything you need to know before booking your dream houseboat stay in Alleppey.

Types of Houseboats in Alleppey

1. Standard Houseboats

• Ideal for budget travelers

• Basic but clean facilities

• Usually non-air-conditioned (or with limited AC hours)

• Good for day cruises

2. Deluxe Houseboats

• Comfortable interiors with A/C in the bedrooms

• Suitable for overnight stays

• Includes freshly prepared Kerala meals

• Great value-for-money option

3. Luxury Houseboats

• Spacious with modern design and stylish décor

• Full-time air conditioning (bedroom and living area)

• Private chef, premium meals, lounge deck

• Ideal for honeymooners or families looking for extra comfort

4. Premium and Ultra-Luxury Boats

• Hotel-style service on water

• Jacuzzi, glass walls, entertainment systems

• Includes candlelight dinners, sunset cruises, private butler service

Key Tips to Choose the Right Houseboat

1. Check the boat condition (especially if booking online)
Look for recent photos or request a video call to inspect cleanliness, furniture, and maintenance.

2. Understand what's included
Confirm meal plans, cruise duration, AC availability, check-in/check-out times, and crew support.

3. Choose the right route
Some houseboats stay in crowded canals — ask for routes through Kuttanad or Champakulam for a more peaceful experience.

4. Compare day cruise vs. overnight stay

• Day cruise: ~4-5 hours, lower price

• Overnight: Full experience with dinner + sunrise views

5. Read reviews on Google, TripAdvisor, or Booking.com
Avoid booking blindly — always read recent traveler reviews.

Recommended Houseboat Companies in Alleppey

Here are some trusted and highly rated houseboat providers:

1. Lakes & Lagoons

One of the oldest and most reputable in Alleppey. Offers standard to premium boats with professional service.

• Website: www.lakeslagoons.com

2. Spice Coast Cruises (CGH Earth)

Eco-luxury experience with heritage-style boats and minimal environmental impact. Great for sustainable travelers.

• Website: www.cghearth.com

3. Rainbow Cruises

Government-approved, award-winning fleet. Good service, ideal for mid-range to luxury travelers.

• Website: www.rainbowcruises.in

4. Cosy Houseboats

Offers well-maintained deluxe and luxury boats with excellent guest feedback and friendly crews.

• Website: www.cosyhouseboats.com

5. Kerala Houseboat

A popular aggregator platform offering curated boats for different budgets and durations.

• Website: www.keralahouseboat.in

Sample Houseboat Itineraries in Alleppey

To help you make the best choice, here are curated houseboat routes and itineraries — from romantic overnights to multi-day explorations through the backwaters of Kerala:

1. Half-Day Cruise (4–5 Hours)

Perfect for: Day visitors, families with young kids, budget travelers

• Start from Alleppey Jetty (around 11:00 AM)

• Cruise through Punnamada Lake and small canals

• Traditional Kerala lunch on board

• Return by 4:00 PM

2. 1-Night Classic Backwater Loop

Perfect for: First-time visitors, couples, solo travelers

• Check-in: 12:00 PM at Alleppey

• Route: Punnamada Lake → SNDP Canal → Kuppapuram → Kuttithodu → Kainakary village

• Activities: Local village life, paddy fields, coir factories

• Meals: Welcome drink + Lunch, tea, dinner, breakfast

• Anchoring: Calm backwater village at night

• Check-out: 9:00 AM next day

3. 2-Night Backwater Explorer

Perfect for: Slow travelers, nature lovers, wellness seekers

• Covers remote regions like Nedumudy, Champakulam, and Karumadi

• Visit the Champakulam Church, Chundan Vallam (snake boat) yard, and Karumadi Buddha statue

• Enjoy canoe rides, fishing demos, or Ayurvedic treatments

• Includes multiple village stopovers and a deeper backwater journey

4. Romantic Honeymoon Itinerary

Perfect for: Couples, honeymooners

• Luxury private boat with full-time AC

• Welcome flowers, fruit basket, candlelight dinner

• Cruise through silent backwaters of Kainakary and Kumarakom

• Optional spa treatment or canoe ride through narrow canals

• Sunset view on upper deck with tea/snacks

Best Time to Book a Houseboat in Alleppey

• High Season: October to March (cool & dry)

• August: For the Nehru Trophy Boat Race

• Monsoon: (June to September) lush and quiet, but occasional rain

What to Bring

• Light cotton clothing

• Camera / power bank

• Sunglasses & sunscreen

• Insect repellent (for the evening)

• Cash (for tips or small purchases)

The best houseboat in Alleppey isn’t always the most luxurious — it’s the one that matches your style of travel, comfort level, and curiosity. Whether you're after a quick escape or a slow floating journey through Kerala’s village heartland, there's a perfect boat waiting for you in Alleppey.