A First-Timer's Guide to Alleppey Houseboat Cruises
What a kettuvallam actually is, day cruise vs overnight, and what to expect once you're onboard.
What is a kettuvallam?
A kettuvallam is a traditional Kerala rice barge, originally used to transport goods along the backwaters, now converted into a houseboat with bedrooms, a dining area, and an onboard kitchen and crew.
Day cruise vs overnight
A day cruise (typically late morning to evening) covers the canals and Vembanad Lake with lunch onboard, and suits a quick Kochi day trip. An overnight cruise boards around noon, includes lunch, dinner, and breakfast, and adds a quiet evening and sunrise on the water that a day trip can't match.
What's usually included
Meals cooked onboard by the crew, a private bedroom with attached bathroom, and a slow cruise route through the canals are standard. Confirm AC availability and meal preferences (Kerala-style thali is the default) when booking.