How to Select the Right Houseboat Package in Kerala
Going on a vacation to experience the beauty of the backwaters of Kerala sounds great. But how do you go about selecting the right houseboat package from several choices in places like Alleppey, Kumarakom, and Kollam? Well, it can be pretty tough to find one that actually gives its full worth. But here we give you all the details on what to look out for when booking a Kerala luxury houseboat. It is sure to give you nothing but smooth waters, paddy fields, and God’s Own Country!
A Kerala luxury houseboat — or simply ‘kettuvallam’ — is a traditional wooden cargo rice barge that has been fitted with the best amenities for making it your new floating home away from home. The modern luxurious houseboats have air-conditioned bedrooms, ensuite bathrooms, a deck for lounging under the sun with furniture, a fully-equipped kitchen along with a chef for your meals, and most importantly stunning views of Kerala backwaters.
1.Decide on Your Destination – Alleppey Vs. Kumarakom
Your first step when picking a Kerala luxury houseboat package is to decide which place you would like to tour.Alleppey, the backwater capital of India, features an extensive network of canals and is known for the popular Nehru Trophy Boat Race. Alleppey is a more crowded destination but features a greater range of options that cater to many budgets.On the contrary, Kumarakom is a small town on the shore of Vembanad Lake, which offers the finest view and the highest comfort. Migratory birds, dense mangrove forests, and beautiful sights along the Vembanad Lake are some of the things that make it unique. If privacy and luxury are what you desire, you should consider a luxury houseboat in Kumarakom.Kumarakom is home to Rajadhani Houseboats and provides a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the beauty of the Kerala backwaters.
2.Understand the Various Types of Packages
Kerala offers various kinds of backwater packages for different preferences. The following is a brief description of the packages that are available.
- Day Cruise Package (6–8 hours)
Perfect for travelers who want a flavor of the backwaters but without spending a night. This involves cruising through the backwater network, having a traditional Kerala lunch at noon, and returning to your hotel by the end of the day. Ideal for travelers who have little time or a limited budget.
- Overnight Package (Check-in afternoon, Check-out morning)
By far the most popular choice. You board after the afternoon, sail through golden hour views, enjoy a fresh traditional Kerala dinner, sleep overnight under the stars, and leave in the morning for another day after breakfast. A single night aboard a Kerala luxury houseboat truly transforms your life.
- 2-Night/Extended Package
This package is ideal for newly-weds or families who wish to have a full experience of the lifestyle and culture associated with the Kerala backwaters. In a 2-night package, you will explore the backwaters, visit local villages, and really disconnect from your routine life.
3.Know What “Luxury” Really Entails
Luxury is often a subjective term when it comes to renting a houseboat. Some points of non-negotiability include:
- AC rooms – important if you plan to travel in the summer months (March to May)
Bathrooms that come with a hot shower inside
- Onboard professional chef who cooks fresh dishes of Kerala cuisine (not packed foods)
- Either solar power or eco-friendly power – an indication that you have chosen a reputable rental
Licensed captain and crew
- Deck space where you can relax outdoors
- Up-to-date design – including wood interiors, quality linens, and working electrical appliances
It’s always wise to ask for pictures or even videos of the real boat and its facilities before confirming your booking.
4. Review the Bedroom Layout
There are three types of luxury houseboats available in Kerala: 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom houseboats. It is important to select the correct number of bedrooms according to the requirements and budget constraints.
- 1-Bedroom Luxury Houseboat: Best choice for couples or individual tourists looking for privacy
- 2-Bedroom Luxury Houseboat: Good for small families or a couple on a joint trip
- 3-Bedroom Luxury Houseboat: Excellent for family trips or groups of friends
All three types of houseboats can be found at Rajadhani Houseboats, including the cozy Rajadhani Blackberry (1 bedroom) and spacious Rajadhani and Rajadhani Neelkamal (3 bedrooms).
5. Consider What is Covered by the Package
What might seem like a low headline price might be a lot more once you factor in the extras. Here’s what to consider when comparing packages:
- Meals: Are all the meals included (lunch, dinner, and breakfast)? Do drinks have an additional cost?
- Fossil fuel: Additional charges for higher cruising distances from some boat operators
- Service and taxes: Request an all-inclusive final price
- Pick-up and Drop-off: Are jetty transfers free or paid separately?
- Welcome drinks and snacks: Indicator of the hospitality standards
Choose the best operators who will not leave you in the lurch with any surprises.
6. Choose Government-Approved and Safe Operators
Kerala Tourism and Kerala Inland Navigation Department monitor the activities of houseboat operators. Ensure the boats have:
- Green Palm certification (eco-friendly standard of Kerala Tourism)
- KSINC certification
- Licensed captain with valid navigation qualifications
- Life jackets and fire safety equipment
It is not only important to be aware of legality but also for your own safety.
7. Verify Reviews — and Make the Proper Inquiries
When planning your luxury houseboat trip to Kerala, dedicate some time to check recent reviews by previous guests posted on Google, TripAdvisor, or travel discussion boards. Pay particular attention to:
Quality and freshness of the food
- Cleanliness of toilets and bedrooms
- Behavior of the crew
- The resemblance between the pictures of the boat posted and the real boat
An honest tour operator will gladly help you make a decision by answering your inquiries over the phone.
8. Best Time to Book a Kerala Luxury Houseboat
The best time to visit Kerala’s backwaters is during its year-round season, though it will depend on your preferences:
- October to February: Chilly weather; best time of the year, plan ahead
- March to May: Warm weather; good visibility; discounts in summer
- June to September: Monsoons; spectacularly scenic due to greenery; some routes may be disrupted by rain
This usually results in lower prices, more flexible options, and direct communication between you and the operator.
Why Select Rajadhani Houseboats, Kumarakom?
Rajadhani Holidays is a well-known Kerala luxury houseboat based in Kumarakom . With a stunning collection of houseboats that have been excellently maintained by expert staff, Rajadhani provides you with all those elements associated with a luxury vacation in Kerala. Whether you plan to spend some time for your honeymoon with your spouse, have a holiday with your kids or want some time off from your hectic schedule, Rajadhani’s expert staff take care of everything while you relax.