There are hundreds of house boats, all vying for business. Two main ways to secure your boat. Book via an agent, or go to the dock at around 9-10 and pick your own, negotiating a price.
Agent most expensive way, and you don't know what you are getting.
It so happened that the owner of the white pepper funky art guesthouse also part owns a houseboat. We discussed a price, and made no commitment until we viewed it. When we did, concluded it was a good deal.
Some boats have two or more bedrooms , and no balcony.
Our boat had one air conditioned bedroom, and an upstairs balcony at the bow, (pointy bit, or front of boat).
The deal includes lunch, dinner and breakfast, with snacks, coffee/tea.
No beer on board, but the captain made a detour and picked some up. Mike thought that was worth a tip; keep some beers on board!!
The boat chugs through the main channels which connects to the lakes that the region is famous for.
Stop for lunch. More chugging around.
Moor up early evening. Stroll around the local area before dinner.
After dinner a couple of beers, then bed.
Boat chugs back to base in the morning. End of trip. Cost 7000 rupees, say £85.
Both enjoyed the experience.
Left the harbour, caught a tuk tuk to the rail station, two tickets to Varkala. Famous for its cliffs and black sand beaches.
Definite lack of problems. No solutions necessary.
Leave you with some photos: Boats at docks; our boat; on one of the lakes; steering at bow; Yvonne having morning coffee on balcony.
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