A day cruise  Alleppey is a delightful way to experience the timeless beauty of Kerala’s backwaters. It provides a relaxing and immersive journey, offering glimpses of local traditions, picturesque landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers, the day cruise is an unforgettable experience that showcases the essence of Alleppey in just a few hours.

A day cruise in Alleppey typically involves a 3 to 6-hour journey aboard a houseboat or shikara (small wooden boat) through the tranquil backwaters, paddy fields, palm-lined canals, and lakes of the Kuttanad region. These cruises start in the morning or early afternoon and end before sunset, allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the region during daylight hours.

Unlike an overnight houseboat stay, a day cruise doesn’t include sleeping arrangements, but often comes with welcome drinks, a traditional Kerala lunch, and onboard amenities such as lounge seating, sun decks, fans, and sometimes even air conditioning (in premium boats).

Types of Boats for Day Cruise

1. Houseboats (Kettuvallams):
   Traditional boats modified with modern comforts. Spacious, covered decks with bedrooms (not used for day cruises), dining area, and restrooms. Ideal for families or groups.

2. Shikara Boats:
   Smaller, open-air boats with cushioned seats and canopies. Great for couples or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate and affordable ride.

3. Motorboats and Speedboats:
   Suitable for shorter, faster rides. Mostly used by locals or travelers who wish to cover more ground quickly.

Highlights of a Day Cruise in Alleppey

• Backwater Scenery:
  Watch as everyday life unfolds along the canals—fishermen casting nets, children playing by the water, women washing clothes on the banks, and boats ferrying goods and people.

• Paddy Fields and Coconut Groves:
  The Kuttanad region, where farming is done below sea level, offers a rare and beautiful landscape of lush green fields, coconut palms, and migratory birds.

• Village Life:
  Day cruises often pass through small backwater villages where you can observe traditional coir-making, toddy tapping, and other aspects of Kerala’s rural culture.

• Traditional Kerala Cuisine:
  Most full-day cruises offer an authentic Kerala lunch with rice, fish curry, avial, thoran, sambar, pickles, and papadam, cooked fresh on board.

• Peace and Tranquility:
  The gentle sway of the boat and the lapping of the water create a meditative experience. It’s the perfect way to unwind and disconnect from the rush of urban life.

Popular Routes

• Alleppey to Kainakary

• Alleppey to Nedumudy

• Punnamada Lake region

• Alleppey round trip via SNDP Canal, Pallathuruthy, and Kuppappuram

Some cruise operators also offer customized routes based on your preference.

Timings and Duration

• Most day cruises begin around 10:00 AM and end by 4:00 PM.

• You can also book half-day cruises (3–4 hours) or sunset cruises (2 hours in the evening).

Cost of a Day Cruise

• Shikara (2–4 seater): ₹800–₹1500 per hour

• Deluxe Houseboat: ₹6000–₹9000 for 4–6 hours (includes lunch)

• Premium Houseboat: ₹9000–₹12,000+ for the day (A/C and luxury amenities)

Prices vary by boat type, facilities, and peak seasons (especially December–January).