While private houseboats in alappuzha cruises offer an exclusive experience, shared houseboats in Alappuzha have emerged as a budget-friendly and equally charming alternative. Ideal for solo travelers, small families, and groups seeking to explore the scenic beauty of Kerala without burning a hole in their pocket, sharing houseboats in Alleppey provide all the essential comforts at a fraction of the cost.
Why Choose Shared Houseboats in Alappuzha?
Shared houseboats in Alappuzha are a smart travel solution for those looking to enjoy the serenity of Kerala’s backwaters with like-minded travelers. These houseboats operate on a shared accommodation model where guests book a cabin or bed rather than renting the entire houseboat. This setup provides the same spectacular views, authentic Kerala cuisine, and traditional hospitality—while keeping your travel budget under control.
Key Benefits of Choosing a Sharing Houseboat in Alappuzha
Cost-Effective: Shared boats significantly reduce the price per person, making it an economical choice.
Social Experience: Perfect for meeting new people and enjoying group travel vibes.
Authentic Experience: Offers all the essential features of a traditional houseboat, including a thatched roof, wooden interiors, and open deck seating.
Daily Departures: Most shared houseboats in Alleppey have daily departure schedules, making them convenient for short-notice travel.
What to Expect on a Shared Houseboat Cruise
A typical sharing houseboat in Alappuzha cruise begins around 12:00 PM from the Punnamada. On boarding, guests are welcomed with fresh tender coconut water or a traditional drink. The staff, including a captain, a chef, and an assistant, are always on board to cater to your needs.
Delightful Backwater Routes
These cruises meander through Vembanad Lake, narrow canals fringed with palms, small villages, and lush rice paddies. The journey offers an intimate glimpse into Kerala’s rural life—fishermen casting nets, children waving from the shore, and farmers tending to fields.
Some popular shared houseboat routes include:
Alleppey – Kuttanad – Nedumudy
Alleppey – Champakulam – Mankombu
Alleppey – Punnamada – C Block
The boat anchors in the evening by 5:30 PM, offering a peaceful night on the water with gentle breezes and a starlit sky.
Facilities on Shared Houseboats
Despite being shared, these houseboats in alappuzha do not compromise on comfort. Most offer:
Private cabins with clean bedding and en-suite or common bathrooms.
Traditional Kerala meals prepared onboard, usually featuring rice, sambar, vegetable curries, fried fish, and local pickles.
Deck area for lounging, photography, or simply soaking in the views.
Air Conditioning during night-time or 24/7 (as per plan)
Hygienic environment, regularly cleaned and maintained by trained staff.
Cost for shared houseboats in Alleppey
The pricing of shared houseboats in Alappuzha generally depends on the duration, season, and level of luxury. Here is a general breakdown:
Day Cruise (5-6 hours): ₹7,000 – ₹14,000 per couple (includes lunch and tea).
Overnight Cruise: ₹10,000 – ₹18,000 per couple (includes all meals, evening snacks, and accommodation).
Premium A/C Shared Cabins: ₹14,000 – ₹24,00 per couple.
Seasonal surcharges may apply during festivals like Onam and Christmas-New Year, so it’s recommended to book in advance.
Best Time to Experience Sharing Houseboats in Alleppey
The ideal time for a shared houseboat cruise in Alleppey is during the winter months (October to March) when the weather is cool and pleasant. Monsoons (June to September) offer a lush and green landscape but can disrupt cruising schedules. Summers (April to May) can be hot, but houseboats with air conditioning can still provide comfort.
How to Book Shared Houseboats in Alappuzha
Booking a shared houseboat in Alappuzha is simple, reliable, and seamless with Boats N Beds—a trusted platform dedicated to backwater experiences in Kerala. Here’s how to ensure a smooth and enjoyable booking process:
Explore curated packages on the Boats N Beds website, where you’ll find detailed information on pricing, inclusions, timings, and itinerary highlights.
Check verified reviews from real travelers to get a clear picture of service quality, cleanliness, and overall experience.
Choose the right amenities—Boats N Beds allows you to filter options based on your preferences for A/C or non-A/C cabins, vegetarian or non-vegetarian meals, single or double occupancy, and more.
Get personalized support—a dedicated customer service team is available to help you pick the right package, answer your queries, and confirm your booking effortlessly.
With Boats N Beds, you get local expertise, transparent pricing, and a carefully vetted selection of sharing houseboats—making your Alleppey backwater journey stress-free and memorable.
Tips for an Enjoyable Shared Houseboat Experience
Pack light but include essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, mosquito repellent, and a power bank.
Respect co-travelers as the houseboat is a shared space.
Avoid single-use plastics to maintain the eco-balance of Kerala’s fragile backwater ecosystem.
Carry cash as some villages en route may offer local crafts and snacks but may not accept digital payments.
Stay patient with service times; the pace of the cruise is leisurely and rooted in the relaxed rhythm of the backwaters.
Conclusion
A trip on a shared houseboat in Alappuzha is a quintessential Kerala experience that combines the beauty of nature, cultural immersion, and affordable luxury. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on a romantic escape, or a family exploring Kerala for the first time, sharing houseboats in Alleppey provide a magical journey through one of India’s most stunning landscapes. With the sound of water lapping against the hull and the sight of emerald paddy fields sliding past, your backwater cruise will be a memory etched in your heart forever.