Kerala Backwaters Cruise in Kochi (2026) | Compare 28+ Tours

Q: What is the difference between a Houseboat and a Shikkara boat in Kochi?

Houseboats are large, multi-room floating homes for overnight stays, while Shikkara boats are smaller, open boats for short scenic tours.

Q: Is it better to book a private houseboat or a shared cruise from Kochi?

Private houseboats offer total privacy and customized meals, while shared cruises are budget-friendly and better for solo travelers.

Q: Are meals included in the houseboat cruise package?

Most overnight houseboat packages include authentic Kerala meals like Karimeen Pollichathu, breakfast, and dinner.

Q: Can I customize the cruise route if I want to see specific villages?

Yes, most operators allow route customization, but long-distance detours may incur extra fuel charges.

Q: What should I pack for an overnight backwater cruise?

Pack light cotton clothing, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, swimwear, and basic toiletries. A power bank is also recommended.

Q: How do I handle motion sickness during the backwater cruise?

The backwaters are calm with minimal waves, but carry motion sickness medication if you are sensitive to water movement.

Experience premium backwater cruising and lunch at an unbeatable $29.27 — top-tier quality at a budget-friendly price!

Best Value

Kerala: Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise with Lunch

6 hours

4.76(37+ reviews)

$28

Book now

Top-rated traveler favorite with a stellar 4.73/5 rating from 309+ reviews—our most booked luxury Kerala experience!

5 Days Luxury Kerala Tour with Houseboat Experience

120 hoursPrivate tour

4.75(363+ reviews)

92.18%

7.82%

goodvery good experiencegreat holiday

$538

Book now

Experience pure bliss with our top-rated Kerala backwater tour, boasting a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 20 happy travelers.

Top Rated

Nature Beauty, Backwater of Kerala Tour (05 Nights - 06 Days)

144 hoursPrivate tour

5(24+ reviews)

100%

wonderfulpolite and knowledgeablevery nice hotels

$870

Book now

Experience premium village scenery at an unbeatable $28.85—unmatched value that blends adventure with low cost.

Budget Pick

Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise

6 hours

4.89(445+ reviews)

91.3%

8.7%

wonderfulso relaxingabsolutely recommend

$28

Book now

Products loading...

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions travelers ask before visiting.

What is the difference between a Houseboat and a Shikkara boat in Kochi?

Is it better to book a private houseboat or a shared cruise from Kochi?

Are meals included in the houseboat cruise package?

Can I customize the cruise route if I want to see specific villages?

What should I pack for an overnight backwater cruise?

How do I handle motion sickness during the backwater cruise?

Best Kerala Backwaters Cruise Experiences in Kochi

Tourteller Selected

Kerala: Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise with Lunch

5 Days Luxury Kerala Tour with Houseboat Experience

Nature Beauty, Backwater of Kerala Tour (05 Nights - 06 Days)

Full Day Backwater Village Punting Boat Cruise

All Related Tours & Activities

Frequently Asked Questions