Geo Clean Ventures, Kochi, Ernakulam

Houseboat service involves renting a houseboat for a specific duration, typically ranging from a few hours to several days. These houseboats are equipped with various amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Guests can enjoy the serene beauty of the backwaters while being pampered with excellent service and delicious local cuisine.

 Houseboats, also known as "floating homes," offer a serene and luxurious experience for tourists. These boats, equipped with all modern amenities, provide a tranquil journey along picturesque backwaters, rivers, or lakes, offering an escape from everyday life. Let’s delve deeper into the world of houseboats, their services, and everything you need to know.

A houseboat is a boat designed or modified to be used primarily as a home. Unlike traditional boats, houseboats are equipped with bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces, making them perfect for long stays. They’re typically found in tranquil backwaters, giving visitors a close-up experience of nature and local culture.

One of the primary attractions of a houseboat tour is the opportunity to traverse the beautiful backwaters . Customers expect routes that showcase the region's lush landscapes, tranquil waters, and traditional village life. 

Houseboat Services and Facilities

Houseboats come with a range of services and facilities that ensure a comfortable and memorable stay. Some of the primary services include:

a) Luxury Accommodation

Modern houseboats provide luxury living arrangements. They offer spacious rooms with air conditioning, en-suite bathrooms, and panoramic views of the surroundings.

b) Traditional Kerala Cuisine

Most houseboats come with an in-house chef who prepares traditional Kerala meals, with options for seafood, vegetarian, and other cuisines upon request. The meals are often served fresh, with ingredients sourced locally.

c) Sightseeing and Cultural Experience

Houseboats travel through beautiful backwaters, passing by villages, paddy fields, and coconut groves. Guests get to experience the local way of life, including fishing and coir-making. Some houseboats also offer stops at popular tourist spots.

d) Onboard Entertainment

To make the journey more enjoyable, houseboats are often equipped with entertainment facilities like TV, music systems, board games, and even karaoke for group fun. Some luxury boats may also offer Wi-Fi connectivity.

e) 24/7 Crew Assistance

Each houseboat has an onboard crew that attends to all the guest’s needs. The crew usually consists of a captain, a chef, and service staff, ensuring that every detail of your journey is taken care of.

Exceptional service is a crucial expectation for those booking houseboat tours. This includes friendly and professional staff, prompt service, and attention to detail. The crew should be knowledgeable about the local area and capable of providing insights and recommendations to enrich the guest experience.

Types of Houseboats

There are different types of houseboats to suit various preferences and budgets:

a) Luxury Houseboats

These houseboats offer high-end amenities such as spacious rooms, premium furnishings, air conditioning, and modern bathrooms. Ideal for those who want to enjoy a five-star experience on the water.

b) Budget Houseboats

More economical but comfortable options, budget houseboats provide basic amenities like clean rooms and local meals. They’re perfect for those looking for a cost-effective experience without compromising on the beauty of the journey.

c) Honeymoon Houseboats

Specially designed for couples, these houseboats offer private cabins with beautiful interiors, romantic decor, and extra services like candlelight dinners and flower decorations.

d) Family Houseboats

These are larger houseboats designed to accommodate families or larger groups. They come with multiple bedrooms and larger living spaces, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone.

Popular Destinations for Houseboats

Houseboats are popular in regions with calm backwaters and scenic beauty. Some of the top destinations for houseboat experiences include:

a) Alleppey (Alappuzha) Backwaters

Known as the "Venice of the East," Alleppey is the most popular destination for houseboat cruises. The peaceful backwaters and picturesque canals offer a charming and scenic experience.

b) Kumarakom

A peaceful village in Kerala, Kumarakom is famous for its bird sanctuary and tranquil backwaters, offering a more relaxed and private houseboat experience.

c) Kochi Backwaters

Kochi offers a blend of modern life and natural beauty. Houseboats in Kochi take you through lagoons, islands, and villages, giving a cultural and nature-filled experience.

Benefits of a Houseboat Experience

1. Tranquility and Relaxation: Enjoy the serene environment, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

2. Immersive Nature Experience: Get close to nature with breathtaking views of rivers, lakes, and backwaters.

3. Unique Staycation: Instead of traditional hotel stays, houseboats offer an entirely new experience of living on the water.

4. Cultural Insight: See how local communities live along the backwaters and participate in activities like fishing and coir-making.

5. Adventure: For those seeking a bit of adventure, houseboats provide a sense of travel, while remaining a floating haven of comfort.

What is a houseboat service?

Houseboat service involves renting a fully equipped boat for leisure travel on water bodies, particularly in scenic backwater regions likes . These boats offer amenities such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and dining areas, allowing guests to experience the beauty of the backwaters while enjoying the comforts of a floating home.

What is included in a typical houseboat package?

A typical houseboat package includes accommodation, meals, and a guided tour of the backwaters. Some packages may also offer additional amenities like air conditioning, entertainment systems, and recreational activities. The inclusions vary based on the type of houseboat and the chosen package.

How long can I rent a houseboat ?

Houseboats can be rented for various durations, from a few hours to several days. Day cruises and overnight stays are popular options. Multi-day rentals are also available for those who want a more extended and immersive experience on the backwaters.

Are houseboats equipped with modern amenities?

Yes, houseboats are equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. These amenities often include air-conditioned bedrooms, attached bathrooms, kitchen facilities, dining areas, and sometimes luxury features like private balconies and Jacuzzis.

What types of meals are served on houseboats ?

Houseboats typically serve freshly prepared meals that highlight traditional Kerala cuisine. This often includes local delicacies such as seafood, coconut-based dishes, and vegetarian options. Many houseboat services also offer personalized meal plans to cater to specific dietary preferences and requirements.