June 2024

Consumer Awareness Feature

Houseboat River Cruises in Karnataka

Nestled in Karnataka's Udupi District, a refreshing surprise can come your way. Imagine this: a leisurely cruise with gentle breezes carrying the sweet scent of nature, verdant meadows lining the riverbanks, and creating for you a perfect picture-postcard setting.

This is the magic of Udupi's River Cruises – a mesmerizing journey on the crystal-clear waters of the Swarna River. A glimpse of paradise, inspired by the iconic backwater cruises of Kerala.

Inspired by tradition, crafted for you

The inspiration for these cruises comes straight from Kerala's serene lakes. Recognizing the potential for a similar experience in Karnataka, local operators have meticulously crafted an authentic and exciting houseboat experience.

To capture the essence of tradition, they partnered with seasoned houseboat craftsmen from Kerala. Their generations-old knowledge and passion for boat-making ensuring a truly authentic experience in Udupi.

Your picturesque journey awaits The most popular route starts in Udupi, taking you to the enchanting Triveni Sangam, where the Swarna River merges with two others. The journey continues to Santhekatte Bridge, offering breathtaking sights along the way.

Some operators cater to your needs with different pick-up points, customized routes, and even an overnight stay option on the houseboat!

Nature's canvas comes alive As your boat glides gently, witness a captivating spectacle. Seasonal birds paint the sky with their elegance, while local fishermen cast their nets in the tranquil waters. Sunrise and sunset paint the canvas of the sky in an ever-changing display of colors.

Overnight stays provide peace of mind – your houseboat will be securely anchored in safe waters for a restful night.

For your cruise-planner notebook A typical cruise team consists of six to seven members, ensuring your comfort and safety. The captain steers the boat, while support staff caters to your needs and serves delicious meals. Some members of the team are also skilled in maintenance and emergency procedures.

And just like the Kerala format, river cruise boats in Udupi come with life-support measures – which is standard equipment on board. Before the cruise begins, guests receive a safety briefing to ensure a worry-free experience.

Cruise managers typically operate in two slots: 10 am to 4 pm, and 5 pm to 9:30 pm. For an extended adventure, choose the overnight stay option. Craving a romantic getaway? Young couples and small families can rent the entire houseboat for a private journey along Udupi's scenic waterways. However, a minimum of five passengers is required for the trip to be viable.