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Spice Coast Cruises offer a unique way to experience the beguiling waterways of Kerala. These cruises allow you to experience the way of life that was once very popular; take a Spice Coast cruise and you will travel via 'Kettuvallam', a traditional Indian houseboat. These vessels were formerly used to transport locally grown spices and rice up and down Keralan waterways. Now, time spent on board allows you to get a flavour of what this way of life must have been like, while enjoying supreme luxury.
Restoring tradition
The first step in creating this idyllic sailing holiday was to find old, unused Kettuvallam that were ripe for restoration. Once sourced, the Kettuvallams were worked upon by expert craftspeople. Using skill, experience and imaginative flair, the vessels were converted into deluxe floating homes to transport guests across the Keralan waterways of Vembanad Lake.
Local knowledge
The former rice and spice vessels use solar power and vegetable oils to minimise environmental impact. They are staffed by the traditional fisherfolk, who know Keralan waters inside out. These welcoming people keep everything on board running smoothly, and also prepare delicious meals for those staying on the Kettuvallam.
Life on board
These floating hotels provide you with everything you need for a memorable and luxurious holiday. Single and twin cabins are cosy, comfortable sanctuaries in which to relax and unwind. Let yourself be rocked gently into peaceful slumber by the gentle lapping of the lake outside your floating bedroom as the sun sets over the south Indian waterways.
Spice cruise experience
Vembanad Lake is the beating heart of this region, and is home to a population of almost two million people - for whom the lake is their lifeblood and livelihood. Vembanad leads into many small canals that form the Keralan waterway network. Guests can meet local villagers, see their handmade crafts and also observe the unique blend of flora and fauna that are nurtured by this vast Indian lake.
inside this beautiful hotel
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We have been using Azure to arrange our holidays for over 12 years. Every year usually twice a year, sometimes more, we rely on the experienced team at Chester to provide expert information on our chosen destinations. Be it a return to our established favorites in Barbados and Dubai or a new and exiting destination chosen from Azures brochure it is always handled in a friendly and competent manner. The small details are not missed such as do we need late check out or early arrival, which can make such a difference after sometimes long hours travelling. For us using Azure takes the uncertainty out of booking holidays.