A Guide to Alleppey's Famous Backwater Cruises

Cruising the Emerald Labyrinth: Alleppey's Backwaters

The Alleppey backwaters, a vast and intricate network of lakes, canals, rivers, and lagoons, are the lifeblood of this region and offer a unique travel experience unlike any other. Known as the "Venice of the East," Alleppey's backwaters provide a glimpse into a serene way of life, where daily routines unfold on the water. From Dolphins Turf, dedicating time to explore these tranquil waterways is highly recommended and promises unforgettable memories.

Types of Backwater Cruises:

Choosing the right type of cruise depends on your preferences, time, and budget:

• Houseboats (Kettuvallams): These are the most popular and iconic option. Traditionally used for transporting rice and spices, these converted barges now offer a comfortable and immersive experience.

  • Day Cruises: Typically last 4-6 hours, including lunch and tea, offering a good overview of the backwaters.
  • Overnight Cruises: Provide a more complete experience, including all meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast) and a night spent anchored on the serene waters. This allows you to witness stunning sunsets and sunrises over the backwaters.
  • Amenities: Vary widely from basic to luxurious, often including bedrooms with attached bathrooms, a sundeck, and a kitchen with a dedicated crew (captain, engine driver, cook).

• Shikaras: These are smaller, traditional canopied wooden boats. They are ideal for:

  • Exploring Narrower Canals: Shikaras can navigate the smaller, more intricate waterways where larger houseboats cannot go, offering a closer look at village life.
  • Shorter Trips: Perfect for 1-3 hour cruises, offering a more intimate and less expensive experience than houseboats.
  • Photography: Excellent for capturing up-close scenes of local life and nature.

• Canoes (Country Boats): For the most authentic and eco-friendly experience, consider a canoe trip.

  • Deep Dive into Local Life: Paddle through tiny canals, interact with villagers, and observe traditional activities like coir making and fishing.
  • Quiet & Peaceful: Offers a very tranquil experience without engine noise.

• Government Ferries: These public water transport options are the most budget-friendly way to see the backwaters.

  • Local Experience: Travel alongside locals commuting between villages.
  • Fixed Routes & Timings: Less flexible than private options and with fewer tourist-centric amenities, but a genuine way to experience the backwaters.

What to Expect During Your Cruise:

• Breathtaking Scenery: Glide past lush green paddy fields, swaying coconut groves, vibrant flowering plants, and witness the unique ecosystem of the backwaters.
• Glimpses of Village Life: Observe children going to school by boat, vendors selling goods on canoes, fishermen casting their nets, and families going about their daily chores along the water's edge.
• Delicious Keralan Cuisine: If you're on a houseboat, meals are usually a highlight. Expect freshly prepared Keralan dishes, often featuring local fish (like Karimeen - pearl spot), fresh vegetables, and coconut-based curries.
• Birdwatching: The backwaters are a haven for numerous bird species, including kingfishers, cormorants, egrets, herons, and migratory birds during the season.
• Ultimate Relaxation: The slow, unhurried pace of the backwaters is incredibly calming and provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.

Planning Your Backwater Adventure:

• Booking in Advance: It's highly advisable to book houseboat cruises in advance, especially during peak tourist season (October to March). For day cruises on shikaras or canoes, booking a day or two ahead is often sufficient. Dolphins Turf can assist with recommendations and arrangements.
• Choosing an Operator: Look for reputable operators. Check reviews, ensure they have proper licenses and safety equipment, and inquire about their waste management practices to support responsible tourism.
• Duration & Itinerary: Discuss the itinerary with the operator. Some standard routes cover the main sights, while others might explore quieter, less-traveled canals.
• Best Time to Visit:
  • Weather-wise: September to May is generally pleasant. The monsoon season (June to August) brings lush greenery but also heavy rains, which can affect cruising.
  • For Tranquility: Weekdays and off-season periods are less crowded.
• What to Bring:
  • Light, comfortable cotton clothing.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Insect repellent, especially for evenings.
  • Camera and binoculars (for birdwatching).
  • Any personal medications.
  • A good book or music for relaxation.
• Cost: Prices vary significantly based on the type of boat, duration, amenities (AC/non-AC for houseboats), and season. It's good to compare a few options.

Dolphins Turf: Your Gateway to the Backwaters

Staying at Dolphins Turf on Thiruvizha beach provides a serene coastal retreat while still being conveniently located to access the Alleppey backwaters. After a day of cruising the tranquil canals, you can return to the soothing sounds of the sea at our beach home. We are happy to help you plan your backwater excursion to ensure it's a highlight of your Keralan holiday.

An Alleppey backwater cruise is more than just a boat ride; it's an immersion into a unique culture and a stunning natural environment. Don't miss this quintessential Kerala experience!