Top 5 Luxury Houseboat Cruises in Alleppey

BY Tour Advisor
January 24, 2023 12:00 pm
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Luxury Houseboats in Alleppey: Our Top 5 Picks for Premium Travelers Alleppey is known as the “Venice of the East” for a reason. It’s home to Kerala’s most stunning backwaters, and the best way to experience them is aboard a luxury private houseboat At Sanchari, we are locals who know the backwaters well. We work […]

Luxury Houseboats in Alleppey: Our Top 5 Picks for Premium Travelers

Alleppey is known as the “Venice of the East” for a reason. It’s home to Kerala’s most stunning backwaters, and the best way to experience them is aboard a luxury private houseboat

At Sanchari, we are locals who know the backwaters well. We work directly with houseboat owners to help you find the perfect boat for your trip. Whether you’re coming for a honeymoon, a family holiday, or a luxury getaway, this list of the top 5 houseboats is carefully chosen to give you comfort, privacy, and a great experience.

1)Spice Route Cruises (Most sought out Houseboats by Celebrities)

2)Xandari River Escapes (Elegant Houseboats)

3)Spices Coast Houseboats(Best Traditional Luxury )

4)Kumarakom lake resorts Houseboats (Floating palace)

5)Angel Queen Houseboats (The best and less explored routes)

6)Punnamada Houseboats (Traditional Luxury Fleets)

Family-run boat charter broker Sanchari Travels and Activities devotes its experience and expertise to organizing luxury Houseboats that meet all your requirements. Let us help you choose sailing options like shikkara and Houseboats for your next trip to Kerala backwaters so that you can experience life on board at its best and discover the best destinations of kerala. Kumarakom, Kottayam, Vembanad lake, Alleppey, Thottapally and Kochi in ultimate comfort.

There is more information below the slideshow. I think I missed one. Share your favorite houseboats in the comments section.

The top 5 houseboat cruises are updated regularly. Sanchari Travels and Activities does an analysis based on reviews and quality checks.

Last updated on 02/08/2025

Average rate of Alleppey Luxury Houseboat Per Night
Tipping and insurance
Food and Drinks on a Houseboat
Luxury Houseboats in Alleppey Q&A 01

Bonus: Get Custom Add-ons with Sanchari

Ask us about:

🌅 Sunset cruises

🍷 Candlelight dinners

📸 Drone photo packages

🎂 Birthday or anniversary setups

🧘 Backwater yoga sessions

Why Choose Sanchari for Your Houseboat Booking?

🧭 1. We Are Locals – We Know the Best Boats
Sanchari is based in Alleppey. We work directly with trusted houseboat owners. We know which boats are clean, safe, and offer real luxury. We help you pick the best boat for your budget and travel style.

💸 2. Best Price Guarantee – No Hidden Charges
Because we talk to the boat owners directly, you get better pricing. No middlemen. No extra commission. Just honest rates for luxury houseboats.

📅 3. Flexible Cancellation – No Stress
Plans can change. Don’t worry! We offer:

Free cancellation up to 7 days before the trip

Easy refunds if the boat is not available or weather is bad

Low advance booking amount

🍽️ 4. Add Extra Fun – Not Just a Cruise
Want more than just sailing? We offer cool add-ons like:

🧑‍🍳 Kerala cooking classes on the boat

🎣 Fishing and village tours

🚣 Kayaking and speed boat rides

📸 Photo shoots and candlelight dinner setups

Why Choose a Luxury Houseboat in Kerala?

A luxury houseboat in Kerala offers a premium and private stay with top-class comfort and service. Here’s what makes it special:

Stylish Interiors: Fully air-conditioned rooms, wooden finish, and modern design.
Spacious & Private: Big bedrooms, attached bathrooms, and private upper deck.
Modern Comforts: TV, Wi-Fi (in some), fridge, and hot water.
Delicious Food: Personal chef or expert cook, with fresh Kerala meals.
Trained Crew: Friendly staff, clean service, and full attention to guests.
Exclusive Ride: No sharing with others, peaceful cruise routes through quiet canals.
Safe & Clean: Life jackets, first aid kit, and hygiene well maintained.

Featured Houseboat Cruises in Alleppey 2025-2026 By SANCHARI

Spice Route Luxury Cruises

#1 in Best luxury Houseboats in Alleppey

Address: Spice Route Cruises, Kainakary, Poppally Kuppapuram Road, Kainakary Village, Alleppey,Kerala, India

5 STAR HOTEL CLASS

₹44000/night

SEE DETAILS

About Spice Route Cruises

Experience a private backwaters cruise on a luxurious houseboat that combines rustic charm with modern comforts. We offer special services like exclusive check-in, premium dining on board, and a chance to connect with local people in Alleppey.

Experience class, comfort, and culture in one elegant boat.

About: Spice Routes offers high-end luxury boats with handcrafted interiors and eco-friendly features. Each boat is named after a spice and offers a private, peaceful cruise through the Alleppey-Kainakary-Vembanad lake-R block-C block backwaters.

Highlights:

1 to 7-bedroom ultra-luxury boats

Personal chef and gourmet Kerala cuisine

Glass-panelled lounge, open sundeck, and modern bathrooms

Best For: Honeymooners & high-end family trips

We guarantee that this Kerala backwaters cruise will give you breathtaking views, delicious meals, and unforgettable encounters with locals, making it a holiday to remember.

You can enjoy a delicious lunch, tea, and dinner while cruising. Prices start at Rs. 42,999 per night.

Top Amenities

Xandari River Escapes

#2 in Best Luxury Houseboats in Alleppey

Address: Xandari River Escapes, Pallathurthy,Alleppey, Kerala, India

5 STAR HOTEL CLASS

₹22000/night

SEE DETAILS

About Xandari River Escapes

Situated in Pallathuruthy, Xandari River Escapes offers a cozy stay on their fleet of boats, from 1-bedroom suites to 3-bedroom suites. The interior is warmly decorated with wood and palm leaves, creating a balanced visual symmetry.

Each room comes with an en-suite bathroom, and there’s a casual dining area and rooftop for relaxation. All meals are included onboard. Prices start from Rs. 22,000 per night onwards. Experience the tranquility of Kerala’s backwaters aboard Xnadari River Escapes.

The price for a stay at Xandari River Escapes ranges from 22,000 INR to 40,000 INR per night.

One Bedroom Suite : 22000INR

Two Bedroom Suite : 28000INR

Three Bedroom Suite : 40000INR

Address: Near Pallathuruthy Bridge,Pallathuruthy,Alappuzha

Website : www.xandari.com

Top Amenities

Spices Coast Cruises

#3 in Best Houseboats in Alleppey

5 STAR HOTEL CLASS

₹26000/night

SEE DETAILS

About Spices Coast Traditional Houseboats in Alleppey

Location is in Muhamma,Alleppey.A Casino Group of Hotels chain with a fleet of 6.

Spices coast offers cozy stays on its fleet of boats, from 1-bedroom suites to 3-bedroom suites. The interior is warmly decorated with wood and palm leaves, creating a balanced visual symmetry.

Each room comes with an en-suite bathroom, and there’s a casual dining area and rooftop for relaxation. All meals are included onboard. Prices start from Rs. 22,000 per night onwards.

Top Amenities

Kumarakom Lake Resort Houseboat

#3 in Best Houseboats in Alleppey

Address: Kumarakom Lake Resort,
Kumarakom North Post,
Kottayam, Kerala, India, 686 563.
[email protected]
+91 481 2524900

India

5 STAR HOTEL CLASS

₹35000/night

SEE DETAILS

About Kumarakom Lake Resort Houseboat

The Kumarakom Lake Resort’s houseboat packages normally include all meals, backwater sightseeing excursions, and onboard entertainment. In order to make sure that all of the visitors’ requirements are met while they are there, the houseboats also come with a professional crew, which includes a captain, cook, and housekeeping personnel.

Visitors to Kumarakom Lake Resort can take advantage of the resort’s various services, including Ayurveda treatments, cultural events, and outdoor activities, while staying in a houseboat arranged by the hotel. For those looking for a beautiful and comfortable setting in which to take in the beauty of Kerala’s backwaters, the resort is the perfect choice.

The price for a stay at Kumarakom Luxury Houseboat ranges from 25,000 INR to 49,000 INR per night.

Tel : +91 80 69 11 11 11

Website : www.kumarakomlakeresort.in

Top Amenities

Angel Queen Houseboats

#4 in Best Houseboats in Alleppey

Address: Royal Building,Near Bharath Petroleum,Kalarcode,Alleppey

India

4 STAR HOTEL CLASS

₹35000/night

SEE DETAILS

Alleppey, a city in the state of Kerala in southern India, is home to the well-known houseboat business.

Angel Queen Houseboats.. They provide a selection of houseboats for visitors to explore Kerala’s stunning backwaters.
The houseboats offered by Angel Queen Different sizes and levels of luxury are available in fleets. They frequently come equipped with features like air conditioning, cosy bedrooms, attached bathrooms, a kitchen, and a dining area. A deck that is open on some houseboats allows you to take in the view and the fresh air.

A crew consisting of a captain, a chef, and an assistant is typically offered to you when you reserve a houseboat with Angel Queen Houseboats. The crew will meet all of your needs during the voyage.

Kumarakom , kochi ,Kollam and Thottapally are the popular trips organized by Angel Queen Houseboats.
Luxury Houseboat Rates
Sharing Luxury Houseboats -12000INR Per Cabin
One Bedroom Luxury Houseboat -22000INR
Two Bedroom Luxury Houseboat-27000INR
Three Bedroom Luxury Houseboat-33000INR
Four-bedroom Luxury Houseboats-44000INR

Five Bedroom Luxury Houseboat-52000INR
Contact: +91 9895189095

Top Amenities

Punnamada Houseboats

#5 in Best Houseboats in Alleppey

Address: Punnamada Resort,Punnamada ,Alleppey

India

4 STAR HOTEL CLASS

₹25000/night

SEE DETAILS

Lakes And Lagoons, Pallathuruthy, Alappuzha, Kerala, India

Check-in time is at 12 PM, and checkout is at 9 AM. Typically cruising in the scenic Alleppey-Vembanad lake, prices start at Rs. 24,000. Indulge in tradition and livelihood of Alleppey Backwaters with Lakes and Lagoons!

Address: Near Pallathuruthy Bridge,Pallathuruthy,Alleppey

Top Amenities

Luxury Houseboat in Alleppey Rate Comparison Table

Houseboat	Bedrooms	Key Features	Day Cruise/per room	Night Stay/per roon	Private	Book Now
Spice Route Houseboats	1–6	Premium interiors, AC, upper deck, private chef	₹25,000	₹30,000	✅ Yes	Chat Now
Spices Coast Cruises	1–3	Traditional design, village cruise, Kerala meals	₹22,000	₹26,000	✅ Yes	Chat Now
Angel Queen Houseboat	1–7	Glass covered, unique route, chef on board	₹17,500	₹22,000	✅ Yes	Chat Now
Xandari Riverscapes	1–3	Boutique design, large windows, eco-friendly	₹18,000	₹22,000	✅ Yes	Chat Now
Punnamada Houseboats	1–3	Heritage suites, spa add-ons, exclusive for honeymooners	₹20,000	₹25,000	✅ Yes	Chat Now

Why Trust Sanchari for Luxury Booking

Sanchari is run by locals from Alleppey who know the backwaters inside out. We offer clean, high-quality luxury houseboats with trusted partners. You’ll get full support before and during your trip through WhatsApp, phone hotline, and even on-site if needed. If your plans change, we make rescheduling or canceling simple. That’s why travelers rate us 4.9 out of 5 on Google and TripAdvisor.

Popular Cruise Routes with Sanchari

At Sanchari, we offer a range of scenic houseboat routes tailored to your travel style — from short round trips to longer village explorations. Here are some of our most popular cruise routes:

Alleppey Round Trip
A relaxing journey through the calm backwaters from Punnamada or Pallathuruthy, Vembanad lake and village life around Alleppey. Perfect for first-time visitors.
Alleppey to Kumarakom
Cruise across the beautiful Vembanad Lake and enjoy the peaceful charm of Kumarakom’s waterfront and Pathiramanal Island.
Alleppey to Thottappally
A quiet, scenic trip through paddy fields and backwater villages that ends near the coastal edge of the Arabian Sea in Thottapally.alleppey-Punchiri-Pallathuruthy-Karimbavalavu-Kanjipadam-Karumadikuttan-Thottapally.
Alleppey to Kochi
A premium, long cruise ideal for explorers — enjoy the changing landscapes as you sail from Alleppey to Kumbalam boat jetty
Alleppey to Thakazhy Round Trip
A cultural journey through untouched canals, lush greenery, and authentic village scenes.Alleppey-Kainkary-Nedumudy-Champakulam-Pindi thodu-pullangady-Pallathuruthy Great for those seeking a deeper backwater experience.
Alleppey to Vaikom
Cruise north through wide lakes, Vembanad lake to Thannermukkam -Vaikom temple towns, and traditional settlements. A unique route for travelers who want something offbeat.

Food and Drinks on a Houseboat

Once you are on board a houseboat all your meals from check inn to check out is covered in the package. It includes both vegetarian and non vegetarian options of typical Kerala cuisine. The food is prepared on board Kitchen by a local chef who is well versed in the Kerala cuisine.

An overnight cruise includes

Enjoy a cool welcome drink when you arrive.
Lunch is served from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM.
Tea or coffee with a snack will be available from 4:30 PM to 5:00 PM.
Dinner is served between 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM.
Breakfast will be served the next day.

In case of Day cruise (11:30am -05:00pm)

A refreshing welcome drink on arrival
Lunch served between 01:30pm -02:30pm
Chai/Coffee with a snack at 04:30-05:00

Alcohol can’t be legally served on a houseboat in Kerala, but if you’re staying on one, you can bring your own alcohol with the houseboat operator’s permission.

Tipping and Insurance

At the end of the trip, guests typically provide a cash tip to the captain, who distributes it among the crew. The standard tip ranges from 5% to 10% of the rental price. Insurance is automatically included in the houseboat rental, as per Indian law.

Highlights of Houseboat Cruising in Alleppey Backwaters

A houseboat cruise across Kerala’s Alleppey backwaters provides several opportunities for sightseeing and activities. Here’s a short selection of the most impressive:

1. Navigating in a houseboat through small backwater villages, lush vegetation, and coconut groves, travellers may immerse themselves in the calm beauty of the backwaters while experiencing local culture and cuisine.

2. The complex network of waterways offers a peaceful experience, letting visitors discover the beautiful surroundings of Kuttanad.

3.The Vembanad Lake in the Kerala backwaters attracts various waterfowl such as the Pin-tailed Duck, Garganey Teal, and Spot-billed Duck, as well as birds of prey like the Osprey, Marsh Harrier, and Steppe Eagle.

4. Pathiramanal Island: A well-known island in Vembanad Lake and a popular tourist destination.

5.Kuttanad area is crisscrossed by rivers like Pamba, Manimala, and Achankovil, along with canals and lakes, creating a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and traditional lifestyles, making it a perfect vacation spot for both international and domestic tourists.

6. Explore Rani, Chittira Kayal & Marathandom Kayal and other reclaimed lands from Vembanad Lake

Luxury Houseboats in Alleppey Q&A

What do I need to consider before booking a luxury Houseboats in Alleppey?

Cursing in a houseboat in Alleppey, Kerala, can be an exotic experience, but there are several factors to consider to ensure you have a great trip. Make sure you read Alleppey Houseboat Booking Tips.

Can I book a luxury Houseboat in Alleppey for overnight stays?

You can book a luxury houseboat in Alleppey for an overnight stay. Our luxury houseboats come with suite rooms that have comfy mattresses, Jacuzzis, and other top-notch amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

What do I need to know about GST(Tax) on Houseboats?

In India, GST is charged on houseboats and is 5%. Talk to your houseboat broker for more information.

How long should you hire a houseboat for?

If you’re looking to explore the backwaters of Alleppey, we recommend at least a 2-day itinerary. However, if you’re looking to explore the inland backwaters of Kerala, you should plan a longer itinerary. Get in touch with Sanchari Houseboating Expert.

When is the best time to visit Alleppey on a Houseboat?

Each season offers a different kind of experience. In summer, the backwater is very mellow, and in the monsoon, it’s a tad bit tempestuous and moody.

Where is the best place for Houseboating in Kerala?

Kerala offers many boating opportunities. Lake Ashtamudi in Kollam is a must-see, where you can still find old traditional Chinese fishing nets still in operation. However, many of our guests prefer Lake Vembanad and the palm-fringed Kuttanad region for more scenic views.

What do Luxury Houseboats in Alleppey Cost?

Prices for ultra-luxury houseboats in Alleppey, Kerala, can range anywhere from 35,000₹ to 75000₹ or more, reflecting their quality and features.

What is the average price of a luxury Houseboat in Kerala?

The larger the luxury houseboat, the higher the cost.

One Room Suite Luxury Houseboat (50 to 70 feet): 25000₹-45000₹. Two room suite Luxury Houseboat (70 to 90 feet): 35000₹-55000₹ or more. Three-room suite luxury house (90 feet and longer): 55000₹-95000₹ and more.

Itinerary Suggestion

Sanchari provides itinerary suggestions for destinations like Alleppey, Kochi, Kumarakom and Bekal.

Backwater Stretches of Alleppey

The Alleppey backwaters offer many beautiful and scenic routes. The most popular is the Alleppey round trip, though some travelers prefer the route from Alleppey to Kumarakom. However, the best experience Alleppey has to offer is the Alleppey to Thottapally stretch, which is less explored and enjoyed.