House Boats (Kettuvallam) or Rice Boats are best described as mobile cottages with all modern facilities and offer excellent accommodation for a whole family. Houseboats are traditionally called 'Kettuvallam' which is in reality the converted rice barges of yester years.
Each houseboat is constructed using ancient philosophy of boat building by the local carpenters using anjali wood. Coir ropes are used for tying the wooden boards together. ("kettu" means tying and "vallam" means country boat in Malayalam the local language - hence the local name "kettuvallam"). The materials which also go into the making are all local and eco friendly bamboo poles, coconut fibre ropes, bamboo mats, coir carpets etc
The Backwaters are a unique web of lakes, lagoons, canals and rivers - are an integral part of Kerala's tourism scene. A Journey through the curving and winding backwaters of Kerala is an experience of returning to nature. The houseboats take one on a fascinating cruise at a leisurely and relaxing pace.
The Overnight cruise offers excellent opportunity to see the lifestyles of local people living along the large sections of the backwaters of Kerala There are halts in between to stretch your legs on the shore, visiting the ancient temples, churches, local villages & people, plus try the floating markets, duck rearing or take in a quick bottle of fresh sweet toddy from a local pub.
At night fall, drop anchor at any place that catches your fancy and let the lullaby of the gentle waves put you to sleep. Wake in the morning to the shouts of the fisherman.
Facilities
Luxuriously appointed with a comfortable living area, a sun deck, dining area and spacious bedroom to ensure you experience Kerala in all its glory. Both the a/c and non a/c versions come with an attached bathroom with an eco-friendly method of waste water disposal.
There is also a fully equipped kitchenette on board, clean, good quality linen, blankets, towels etc. and high quality crockery and glassware are used on the boat. Luxurious twin beds, a table and chair, storage space, and even a mosquito net, are available at your disposal.
Onboard you will be accompanied by three expert crew members. The chef onboard will relish you with traditional Kerala cuisine. The mouth watering delicacies of the Kuttanadan area like ducks, karimeen, prawns and other sundry delicacies will tickle your palette like no other. Indeed a feast fit for kings.