The serene backwaters of Kochi offer three standout boating options, each providing an intimate look at Kerala’s waterways.
The most comprehensive choice is the full-day private cruise, which smartly combines both motorized shikkara and traditional canoe travel – you’ll eat authentic Kerala food while watching daily village life unfold.
I especially love the efficient 3-hour shikara tour that glides through quiet, palm-lined canals (with a great lunch stop option).
For history buffs, the 6.5-hour Fort Kochi excursion perfectly pairs backwater cruising with colonial-era sightseeing.
All these trips get consistently high marks from travelers for their authentic, no-nonsense approach.
Check out our favorite tours below.
Key Points
- The Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise offers a unique and authentic exploration of Kochi’s serene backwaters through motorized shikkara and traditional canoe.
- The Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Shikara Day Cruise provides a 3-hour journey through palm-fringed waterways and villages, with an optional lunch at a local village restaurant.
- The From Kochi Port: Backwater Canoe and Fort Kochi Tour is a comprehensive 6.5-hour excursion that combines a relaxing backwater cruise and a visit to the historic Fort Kochi.
- These experiences are highly rated for their authenticity, memorable adventures, and the opportunity to observe local village life and daily activities.
- Prices for these tours range from $55 to $70 per person, with hotel/port pickup and drop-off included, making them accessible for visitors to Kochi.
Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise
The Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the serene backwaters of Kochi, India.
Starting at 6:00 am, this private tour takes participants on a journey through the picturesque waterways, aboard both a motorized shikkara and a traditional canoe.
The tour includes a Kerala-style breakfast, a delicious lunch, and hot tea or coffee with snacks, ensuring a well-rounded culinary experience.
Throughout the day, guests will have the chance to enjoy the local village life and observe the daily activities of the residents.
Safety is a priority, with all necessary gears and life jackets provided.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed, and infants can sit on laps.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, this full-day cruise is a must-try for those seeking an authentic and memorable adventure in Kochi’s stunning backwaters.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Canoe Shikkara Combo Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Shikara (Shaded Canoe Boat) Day Cruise
Frequently, travelers to Kochi, India, seek out the quintessential backwater experience, and the Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Shikara (Shaded Canoe Boat) Day Cruise delivers just that.
Departing from Kochi, guests embark on a 3-hour journey through the picturesque palm-fringed waterways, villages, and lush rice paddies of Alleppey, known as the “Venice of the East.”
The tour features a non-air-conditioned Shikara, a traditional Indian canoe, which allows visitors to enjoy the serene and scenic landscape only accessible by water.
Along the way, travelers can discover the stunning natural beauty and gain insights into the rural life of Kerala. An optional lunch stop at a local village restaurant provides the opportunity to sample authentic South Indian cuisine.
Priced from $70 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a convenient and memorable way to experience the renowned Kerala backwaters.
With a 5.0 rating based on positive reviews, this private tour is a must-do activity for those visiting Kochi.
Read our full review: Kochi Private Tour: Kerala Backwater Shikara (Shaded Canoe Boat) Day Cruise Review
Book now: Check availability
From Kochi Port: Backwater Canoe and Fort Kochi Tour
Travelers visiting Kochi often embark on the From Kochi Port: Backwater Canoe and Fort Kochi Tour, a comprehensive 6.5-hour excursion that showcases the region’s renowned backwaters and historic attractions.
Priced from $55 per person, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from the Kochi Port, a journey to Alleppey, and a relaxing cruise through Kerala’s lush backwaters aboard a traditional Shikara canoe. Guests will enjoy the area’s verdant landscapes, paddy fields, and coconut palms before enjoying a traditional Keralan lunch or tea and snacks.
The tour then moves on to the iconic Fort Kochi, where travelers can witness the famous Cheena Vala (Chinese fishing nets) and other notable sights.
With an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides an excellent value and a well-rounded introduction to Kochi’s natural and cultural wonders.
Suitable for cruise ship passengers with late departures, the tour is highly recommended by past travelers for its knowledgeable guides and overall quality experience.
Read our full review: From Kochi Port: Backwater Canoe and Fort Kochi Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Kochi’s canoe and kayak experiences offer a unique way to explore the area’s picturesque backwaters. Whether it’s a full-day cruise or a combination tour, visitors can enjoy the tranquil waterways, historic sites, and local culture. These excursions provide a serene and memorable way to discover the beauty of Kerala’s iconic landscapes.