Alleppey, famously known as the “Venice of the East,” is one of India’s most loved backwater destinations. But what truly sets it apart is the experience of drifting through its serene canals aboard a traditional houseboat, known locally as a Kettuvallam. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a family holiday, or a solo retreat, booking an Alleppey houseboat online is now easier than ever — if you know the right steps.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to book an Alleppey boat house online, what to consider, and how to make the most of your backwater getaway.
Why Book an Alleppey Houseboat Online?
Before diving into the step-by-step process, here’s why booking your boat house Alleppey trip online is the smart choice:
- Compare houseboat options easily (ratings, prices, services)
- Book in advance during peak season (October to March)
- Secure better deals and exclusive discounts
- Avoid local agents who may overcharge
- Read genuine reviews from previous guests
Step-by-Step Guide to Booking an Alleppey Houseboat Online
Step 1: Understand the Types of Houseboats
Alleppey offers a variety of houseboats based on size, facilities, and budgets. Knowing what type suits your trip is the first step.
1. Deluxe Houseboat
- Budget-friendly
- A/C runs only at night
- Basic interiors
2. Premium Houseboat
- A/C available full-time
- Better interiors and larger deck
- Suitable for couples and small families
3. Luxury Houseboat
- Wooden interiors, large glass windows
- Private deck, luxury bedding
- Ideal for honeymooners or those seeking a premium experience
You can also choose based on room count: 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, or up to 5-bedroom boats for group bookings.
Step 2: Choose Between Shared or Private Houseboat
For a more intimate and peaceful journey, always opt for a private Alleppey boat house. Shared houseboats are cheaper but compromise on privacy.
Private boats are recommended for:
- Honeymoon couples
- Families with kids
- Elderly travelers
- Anyone seeking a quiet retreat
Step 3: Select the Duration of Your Cruise
Common booking options include:
- Day cruise (11:00 AM to 5:00 PM) – No overnight stay, includes lunch and tea
- Overnight cruise (check-in by 12 PM, checkout next day 9 AM) – Most popular choice
- Two-night or three-night cruises – For deeper exploration of backwaters like Kuttanad, Kumarakom, or Thottappally
Choose based on your travel itinerary and how much time you want to spend on the water.
Step 4: Decide on the Route or Backwater Region
Not all cruises follow the same path. Some popular Alleppey houseboat routes include:
- Alleppey Round Trip: Covers canals, paddy fields, and villages near Punnamada Lake
- Alleppey to Kumarakom: A beautiful journey towards another famous backwater destination
- Alleppey to Thottappally: More offbeat and peaceful
- Alleppey to Nedumudy/Champakulam: Traditional villages and scenic landscapes
Make sure to ask your operator about the route when booking online.
Step 5: Pick a Trusted Website or Booking Platform
Here are some ways to find a reliable Alleppey boat house online:
1. Specialized Kerala Houseboat Booking Websites
These platforms focus entirely on Alleppey and Kumarakom houseboats. Examples:
- GlideStay
- com
- in
2. Popular Travel Aggregators
- com
- MakeMyTrip
- Goibibo
- Agoda
3. Direct Booking Through Operator Website
Some houseboat providers have their own websites. Booking directly often means better prices and customized experiences.
Always check customer reviews, especially about cleanliness, food, staff, and route.
Step 6: Compare Prices and Inclusions
Prices vary widely depending on:
- Type of boat
- Number of rooms
- Facilities (A/C, deck, bathtub)
- Meals and activities included
Always look for a detailed list of inclusions:
- Welcome drink
- Lunch, tea/snacks, dinner, and breakfast
- Cruise time and stopover points
- Air conditioning details
- Canoe rides or fishing options
If you have dietary restrictions or want Jain/vegetarian food, confirm this during booking.
Step 7: Confirm Check-in and Check-out Timings
Standard check-in: 12:00 PM
Standard check-out: 9:00 AM (next day for overnight cruises)
Keep in mind:
- Houseboats anchor by 5:30–6:00 PM in the evening due to local regulations
- Night cruising is not allowed
- Most boats resume movement by 7:30 AM
Plan your arrival in Alleppey accordingly to avoid delays.
Step 8: Read the Cancellation and Refund Policy
Before confirming your Alleppey houseboat booking, check:
- Cancellation fees and timeframes
- Refund processing timelines
- Rescheduling flexibility in case of rain or emergencies
Some operators offer free cancellation up to 72 hours before the trip, especially on bigger booking sites.
Step 9: Make the Payment Securely
Once satisfied with your selection, proceed to payment. Use:
- Credit/Debit Cards
- UPI or net banking (for Indian travelers)
- PayPal (for international users)
After payment:
- You’ll receive a booking confirmation email
- Some operators also call/WhatsApp to reconfirm details and share boarding location
Pro tip: Keep a screenshot and copy of your booking voucher and payment receipt.
Step 10: Prepare for Your Houseboat Trip
A few days before the trip:
- Call the operator to reconfirm the pickup point and timing
- Share dietary requirements (if any)
- Check if early check-in is possible if you’re reaching Alleppey early
What to Pack for Your Boat House Alleppey Experience
- Light cotton clothes and sandals
- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
- Mosquito repellent (especially in monsoon)
- Camera and power bank
- Raincoat/umbrella (if traveling June–September)
Avoid These Common Booking Mistakes
- Last-minute booking in peak season – Leads to fewer choices and higher rates
- Not checking A/C usage timings – Deluxe boats offer A/C only at night
- Overpacking – Houseboats have compact storage
- Choosing the cheapest option blindly – May result in poor hygiene or bad food
- Not confirming route or pickup details – Can cause last-minute confusion
Bonus Tips for a Memorable Alleppey Houseboat Journey
- Request candlelight dinner for special occasions
- Ask about village walk stops or canoe rides during the journey
- Try the Karimeen Pollichathu or prawn curry – Kerala’s backwater specialties
- Don’t miss sunset photography from the top deck
- Respect the crew and local customs
Where to Board Your Alleppey Boat House?
Most houseboats depart from Finishing Point, Punnamada – around 3–4 km from Alleppey town or railway station. Some boats start from nearby jetty points in:
- Pallathuruthy
- Nedumudy
- Champakulam
- Kumarakom (for crossover trips)
Make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early to avoid delays in boarding.
Need Assistance While Booking?
Most reputed operators and platforms offer:
- 24/7 customer support
- WhatsApp chat options
- Language support (English, Malayalam, Hindi)
Don’t hesitate to call and clarify details before finalizing your Alleppey boat house booking.
Final Thoughts
Booking an Alleppey houseboat online is the smartest and most convenient way to secure your backwater retreat. With the right planning and informed choices, your boat house Alleppey experience can be one of the most peaceful and enriching journeys of your life.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can avoid common pitfalls, find the best deals, and choose a boat that suits your style, budget, and expectations. Whether you’re watching a golden sunset over Vembanad Lake or savoring a Kerala-style fish curry cooked just for you, the memories you make on this cruise will stay with you forever.
Ready to book your dream Alleppey houseboat online?
Let us help you find a verified operator with transparent pricing, clean interiors, and the perfect backwater route for your journey.
