Cochin Shore Excursion: Backwater Houseboat Tour and Chinese Nets

If you’re arriving in Kochi and crave a taste of Kerala’s famous backwaters, this 7-hour tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s unique waterway lifestyle. Priced at $85 per person, it’s a popular choice, often booked nearly five months in advance, which speaks to its appeal. The experience includes a scenic cruise on a traditional houseboat, a visit to Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi, and a flavorful buffet lunch. Led by a local guide, it promises to be a day packed with authentic sights, sounds, and flavors.

We particularly appreciate how smoothly the day flows—from the comfortable air-conditioned bus transfer to the leisurely waterway cruise—making it accessible for most travelers. The lunch stands out as a highlight, offering Kerala’s signature dishes such as rice, vegetables, and fresh fish, served right on the water. Another plus is the chance to see famous Chinese nets, an iconic sight that captures the essence of Kochi’s fishing heritage.

However, it’s worth noting that the long coach ride—around two hours each way—can be tiring, especially with ongoing roadworks that might slow things down. If you prefer a shorter journey or a more relaxed pace, this might be a consideration. This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience, combining land and water, with a focus on local culture and cuisine.

Key Points

• Authentic Waterway Experience: Cruise Kerala’s backwaters on a traditional houseboat, enjoying views of lush vegetation and villages.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit the iconic Chinese fishing nets in Fort Kochi, a must-see for first-time visitors.
• Local Cuisine: Savor a buffet lunch featuring regional dishes like fish, vegetables, and rice—delicious and filling.
• Guided Insight: Led by a knowledgeable local guide, providing context and interesting facts about each stop.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle transfers make the long coach ride manageable.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines water, land, and culinary experiences, ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded day.

Starting Point: Kochi Port and Transfer to Alleppey

Your day begins with pickup from Kochi Port, where a friendly guide will meet you and escort you to your transportation. The first leg of the journey involves a roughly 1.5 to 2-hour drive southward to Alleppey (also known as Alappuzha). This ride is a good opportunity to get your bearings, and our guides during the reviews mention how they share insightful details about the region’s history and lifestyle, making the drive more engaging.

Keep in mind that the route can be affected by ongoing roadworks, which some travelers find challenging, but the comfort of the air-conditioned vehicle helps. The journey also gives a chance to see some of Kerala’s countryside, with fields of paddy, coconut palms, and small villages.

Boarding the Houseboat and Backwater Cruise

Once in Alleppey, you’ll transfer onto your traditional houseboat—the star of the day. This is where the true magic begins. The cruise lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, during which you’ll glide through calm waters lined with lush greenery and farming communities.

This part of the tour is unmistakably peaceful. You’ll see local boats going about their daily life, and the slow pace allows for plenty of opportunities to snap photos or just soak in the scenery. Our review mentions how the boat staff ensures your comfort, serving cool bottled water and providing a relaxing environment.

The Lunch: Kerala’s Flavors on the Water

A highlight for many is the buffet lunch, served on the houseboat as you cruise. Expect traditional Keralan cuisine—a mix of rice, vegetable dishes, fish, and chicken. The food is described as delicious and plentiful, giving you a taste of regional flavors. Several reviews emphasize how worthwhile this meal is, with some calling it “good value for money.”

The relaxed setting and tasty fare make it more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience. You’re dining on the water, surrounded by the sights and sounds of Kerala’s backwaters.

Visiting the Chinese Nets in Fort Kochi

After your cruise, you’ll head back toward Fort Kochi to see the iconic Chinese fishing nets. These large, cantilevered nets are a photographer’s favorite and a symbol of Kochi’s maritime history. The visit lasts about 2 hours, during which you’ll learn about their traditional, centuries-old fishing method. This is a favorite stop, especially for first-timers eager for that classic Kerala photo.

From reviews, it’s clear that this stop is engaging, with knowledgeable guides explaining how these nets work and their significance. Some travelers mention how lively the scene is, with fishermen tending their nets and local vendors nearby.

Ending and Return to Kochi

After exploring the nets, your day concludes with a drop-off at Kochi Port. The return journey is about the same length as the ride to Alleppey, so be prepared for the full day. While the tour’s value lies in its combination of land, water, and culture, some found the long coach ride to be the only downside, particularly if roadworks slow down traffic.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive snapshot of Kerala’s backwaters, fishing tradition, and Kochi’s vibrant culture. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic cruises, authentic regional cuisine, and guided insights into local life.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, all-in-one day that covers water, land, and culinary delights, this tour offers strong value. However, if you prefer shorter travel times or are sensitive to long coach rides, you might want to consider other options or be prepared for the journey.

For around $85, you get a rich mix of experiences—a waterway cruise, a visit to iconic fishing nets, and a delicious buffet lunch—all led by a knowledgeable guide. The balance of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and regional flavors makes this a solid choice for travelers seeking a meaningful taste of Kerala’s essence.

The reviews consistently highlight friendly guides, good value, and delicious food. While the coach trip can be lengthy, many consider it a small price to pay for the comprehensive experience. It’s especially suited for those wanting to see traditional villages, famous sights, and enjoy a relaxing cruise in a single day.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Kochi Port, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a cruise on a houseboat, visit to Chinese nets, bottle water, and a buffet lunch.

How long is the coach ride?
The coach ride from Kochi to Alleppey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours each way. Be prepared for potential delays due to roadworks.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for weather—light clothing, sun protection, and sturdy shoes if you plan to walk around. The tour operates in all weather conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What’s the duration of the boat cruise?
The waterway cruise lasts approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, providing ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Are drinks other than bottled water included?
No, additional drinks are not included. You may want to bring your own or purchase beverages locally.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through platforms like Viator, with most bookings confirmed immediately or within 48 hours, depending on your timing.

What happens if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, allowing a full refund.

This Cochin Shore Excursion offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Kerala’s waterways and culture. Whether you’re a lover of scenic cruises, regional cuisine, or iconic fishing traditions, this tour provides a memorable window into the life of Kerala’s waterways, all while keeping things manageable for a single day ashore.