Pricing Guide for Day Cruises in Houseboats in Alleppey, Kerala
The Backwaters of Alleppey in Kerala, India, are among the most beautiful and tranquil spots on the planet. A day cruise in a houseboat offers the perfect way to explore this unique environment. In this guide, we break down the approximate costs for a day cruise in a houseboat and the key factors that influence these prices.
Typical Costs for a Day Cruise
The cost of a day cruise in a houseboat in Alleppey, Kerala, typically ranges from approximately 6,000 to 15,000 Indian Rupees (INR), or around $75 to $185 for a standard houseboat that accommodates 2 to 4 people. These prices can fluctuate based on several factors, including the type of houseboat, duration of the trip, inclusions, season, and customer-specific factors such as nationality and status.
Factors Influencing the Cost
1. Type of Houseboat: Luxury houseboats with more amenities, such as air conditioning, private balconies, and larger living spaces, will naturally cost more than standard houseboats. For example, a premium houseboat might start around 9,000 INR (approximately $120), while a luxury houseboat could range from 13,000 to 15,000 INR (around $175 to $200).
2. Duration of the Trip: A full-day cruise (which usually includes meals, snacks, and guided tours) typically costs more than a half-day trip. For instance, a half-day ride might start from 7,000 INR (approximately $95), while a full-day cruise could be around 12,000 to 15,000 INR (around $160 to $200).
3. Inclusions: If the houseboat cruise includes meals, snacks, guided tours, and other activities, the price will be higher. For a standard inclusion package, a half-day cruise might cost around 8,000 INR (approximately $110), while a full-day cruise could be around 13,000 to 15,000 INR (around $175 to $200).
4. Season: The cost of houseboat cruises in Alleppey can vary significantly based on the season. Peak tourist seasons, such as the winter months (October to February), are likely to see higher rates due to increased demand. The last few weeks of December might see the highest rates due to Christmas and New Year celebrations. March to May is considered a shoulder season, while June to September is generally a low or off-season due to rainfall.
Alternative Options
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, a Shikara boat ride is available. It starts from approximately 800 to 1,000 INR per hour, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight budget.
More Details for Houseboat Cruises
The cost of a houseboat cruise can vary based on several factors, including the facilities provided and the number of guests.
1. Number of Rooms: The base price for a 5-hour ride in a houseboat can start from 7,000 to 8,000 INR. This package typically includes all meals from lunch to dinner, snacks, and guided tours. If you're looking for a cheaper option, Shikara boat rides start from around 800 INR per hour.
2. Charges for Different Cruises: - Day Cruise: A 6-hour journey through the backwaters, starting at 11 AM and ending at 5 PM, costs approximately 8,000 to 10,000 INR. This is inclusive of all meals, snacks, and guided tours.
- Overnight Cruise: An overnight cruise package includes a day cruise, dinner, accommodation, and a morning cruise the next day, which costs more. An overnight cruise can range from 12,000 to 18,000 INR.
3. Number of Persons: All guests are served welcome drinks, lunch, tea, snacks, dinner, and breakfast. The cost will depend on the number of people. For instance, a 6-person group would need a 3-bedroom houseboat for an overnight cruise, as bachelors or couples may prefer to share rooms.
4. Number of Bedrooms: Houseboats in Alleppey come with up to 10 bedrooms, ranging from basic single rooms to larger luxury suites. A 200-square-foot single bedroom houseboat, fully air-conditioned, is considered ultra-luxury and costs significantly more than a standard houseboat.
5. Premium vs. Luxury: Premium category houseboats are larger with more capacity, while luxury category boats are designed for fewer people. Premium houseboats start around 10,000 INR (approximately $135) for a day cruise, while luxury houseboats can cost up to 15,000 to 18,000 INR (around $200 to $245) for a day cruise.
Conclusion
Houseboat pricing in Alleppey, Kerala, is determined by a mix of factors, including the type of houseboat, duration of the cruise, inclusions, and seasonal demand. It's always advisable to check with local operators for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, as prices can vary significantly based on these factors. To plan your perfect day cruise in Alleppey, consider your budget, preferences, and the number of people in your group to choose the right houseboat option for you.