Private tour in Kochi Joyce X

Kerala Backwaters Houseboat Cruise & Kochi Heritage Experience – Perfect for Cruise Passengers

4.9

(11) reviews

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Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Joyce X.

4.8

Guide rating

77

Reviews

Tours delivered

2 hrs

Avg. response time

Hello Travelers! Greetings from Cochin ( Kochi ) Kerala. Thank you for choosing Kochi as your vacation destination. The state Kerala is known for towering Western Ghat Mountains, and a net work of 44 rivers which will definitely enchant you and will leave you with memories lingering for years after your first visit. Here you can meet people who have a special skill in hospitality and tend to invite you to their house for a tender coconut brought down from the tree just for you or a cup of home made blue mountain tea. Culture, tradition and history varies in whole south India. Ask for repository of Dravidian culture in the south of India, I can give you the popular sites at the same time surprise you with the unknown. Tours at comfortable pace, customized to your preferences are what I offer. These will be very essentially private tours in every sense. Pay me only prices for tours much less the excursion managers of cruise liners charge. My personalized tours will exceed your expectations. I am patient, flexible and always try harder. My shore excursions start from the side of the ship. You can speak about anything you want to do here. I will organize it in a perfect way. Ask me for a tour through the conventional attractions or off peg villages or towns to see how the real life in Cochin is. Ask for traditional lunch during the tour …. or a little café for great service and food on the balcony while watching daily life of the locals …any thing. . anything. . and I will let you surprise. My name is Joyce, and I am certified tour guide and hold the Red Card ( most coveted ) of the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. There are a few tours listed for your consideration. These tours are specially designed for travelers who look forward to exclusive experiences. Same time options kept open for you to include your preferences. I invite you to read the feedback history of my services alongside this page. The cost of the tours I offer is most reasonable and price worthy. For transport I use Premium vehicles. But your preferences will prevail. My long experience of travels to the tourist destinations of south India with all sizes of groups have seasoned me to provide best results. I have worked for many international tour operating companies of repute. I have also offered my services to many passengers of cruise liners called at Kochi Port. My vehicles are chauffeured by most enthusiastic men and women. They are bound by attitudes to attract the entire satisfaction of the travelers. I have always loved the company of travelers and it is my passion to work as the unofficial ambassador of my country. Eminent personalities I was assigned to. 1. Mr. Richard Attenburough who came to Kerala to shoot the Oscar winning film "Gandhi. " 2. Mr. Alexander Fret of "Chasing the Monsoon" 3. Mr. Simon Winchester, of "Conte Naste, " Magazine U. S. A. , 4. Mr. P. R. S. Oberoi and his son Mr. Vikram Obreroi. 5. Duke of Kent, T R H Prince Edward (Edward George Nicholas Patrick Paul), and the Duchess of Kent, H R H The Duchess of Kent (Katharine Kent ). 6. Mr. Edward Mc Kay Hyde, USA, Managing Director, Goldman Sachs ( Leading Global Investment Banking Securities Management Company. ) 7. Mr. Gerald Eskenazi USA The New York Times. 620 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018 8. Dr. Prof. Graeme Fogelberg, Vice Chancellor, Uneversity of Otago, Dunedin, New Zeland 1993 - 2004 and his wise Mrs. Mary Fogelberg, my guests on 16th and 17th Mar, 2011 9. Mr. Carlos Duarte Ambassador Brazil. Mar 2014 10. Mr. Harry A. Milman on Feb 2017, is the author of A DEATH AT CAMP DAVID and an international authority in toxicology 11. R. Waldbaum Professor of Urology at Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine. Vice President for Physician Relations for North Well Health System, USA. Nov 2017 12. Lord Michael Levy. President of Volunteering Matters, Jewish Care, Jewish Free School (JFS) and Jewish Lads' and Girls' Brigade (JLGB). 13. Mr. Peter Taksøe-Jensen Danish Ambassador to India. 14. Mr. Philip Knatchbull grandson of Lord Mountbatten Dec. 2023 I am a graduate in Economics & Indian History. I have RED CARD, Tourist Guide Licence, from Ministry of Tourism & Culture, Government of India. I have obtained Diploma in German Language. I have undergone periodical refresher courses for Tourists Guides conducted by my parent department as well as the reputed institute 'KITTS' ( Kerala Institute of Tourism And Travel Studies. ) I have the approval of the Ministry of Tourism Govt.of India to guide tourists in south India. . A few temples do not allow non Hindus to enter the sanctum. I will not be able to guide the tourists there, as I am not a Hindu.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Joyce X.

Overview of your Kochi tour

Step off your cruise and into the heart of Kerala with a journey that blends tranquil nature and timeless heritage. Begin your day with a scenic drive to the famed backwaters, where you’ll board a traditional houseboat for a leisurely cruise through palm-fringed canals, lush paddy fields, and charming villages. As you glide along, soak in the serene beauty that makes Kerala one of the world’s most enchanting destinations. After your backwater experience, continue to historic Kochi (Cochin), a vibrant city shaped by centuries of spice trade and colonial influence. Explore Fort Kochi’s winding lanes, see the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets, admire St. Francis Church—the oldest European church in India—and visit the Dutch Palace and Jewish Synagogue (time permitting). Designed with cruise ship passengers in mind, this excursion offers a perfect balance of relaxation and discovery, showcasing both Kerala’s natural splendor and cultural treasures—all within a day.

Recent Reviews

James M.United States
February 2024

We could tell right away that Joyce was a pro. It was also a nice perk to be able to meet his son. Our houseboat ride was relaxing and one of the highlights of our three and a half week trip. There were only the four of us, Joyce, and a crew of two on the whole boat. We were relaxed on the water after many days of hectic travel. The ride to the boat was very long, but it gave us a chance to see rural India. When the construction is over, the ride will be much quicker. All in all, a magical day!

Ian M.United Kingdom
December 2019

What a great day- Joyce providing a real professional guide as well . His knowledge well exceptional - very friendly and personable The backwaters are circa 1.1/2 hours from the port but does allow you to see and experience local life on the way , especially the traffic. The houseboat was amazing, very clean and the 3 crew were so friendly and charming. Lunch was provided on board the house boat and was delicious. I would highly recommend this trip. - very tranquil and provides great insight to local

Wolfgang P.United States
November 2018

Great experience. Joyce (and team) did a terrific job. Highly recommended.

Haynie K.New Zealand
June 2018

Fantastic way to spend the day from Cochin - high quality houseboat with excellent lunch and friendly staff. We found the driving in Kerala a little disconcerting but overall an excellent experience.

Ruth G.Canada
April 2018

Joyce was an excellent guide. He took me to places not frequented by tourists as I asked him to. On the way to the houseboats in Alleppey he showed me a fishing village where people had come to buy the fish just brought in. He also hired a houseboat just for us with a wonderful meal prepared on the boat. There are lots of tourists on the canals in houseboats, of course, but he explained a lot about the area, being very frank. We stopped at Fort Kochi on the way back to Kochi to see the Chinese nets

John D.United States
January 2018

Joyce was an excellent guide. He planned a private houseboat tour for us on the Backwaters of Alappuzha that included a wonderful south India lunch including several curries, fish and chicken as typical in the region. We wanted a chance to buy spices on the way back to the ship and he took extra time to take us to the spice market his wife goes for her spices that probably never had a tourist in the place. The total cost for out party of 4 was considerably less than the ship's tour and very personal.

Your Kochi tour itinerary

Pickup from Cruise Port Meet your guide/driver at Kochi Port and set off on a comfortable drive through the scenic countryside. Houseboat Cruise in the Backwaters Board a traditional Kerala houseboat. Enjoy a leisurely 2–3 hour cruise along serene canals, lined with coconut palms, rice paddies, and village life. Savor authentic Kerala snacks and refreshments on board (lunch option available). Return to Kochi for Heritage Exploration Drive back to Fort Kochi, the historic heart of the city. Visit iconic Chinese Fishing Nets. See St. Francis Church, India’s oldest European church. Explore the Dutch Palace (Mattancherry Palace) with its murals and artifacts (closed on Fridays). Stroll through the Jewish Quarter and visit the Paradesi Synagogue (closed on Fridays & Saturdays). Leisure Time & Shopping (if time permits) Browse for local handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs in Kochi’s lively markets. Return to Port Drive back to Kochi Port in time for your cruise ship’s departure.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Sedan

Transportation Travel in comfort by air-conditioned vehicle: a Toyota Etios Sedan (for up to 2 passengers) or a Toyota Innova/Crysta (for up to 4 passengers) or a van (upto 10 passengers), ensuring a smooth and scenic drive to the backwater village. For the cruise, enjoy a deluxe, well-maintained houseboat, featuring a single bedroom with an attached bathroom (available for freshening up during the journey).

What's included
Private Guide
Private Transportation
Equipment: Houseboat exclusively booked for you and your group.
Private Transportation With Driver
Food Drinks Snacks
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Mineral water is provided (1 bottle each per person ) in the houseboat during the cruise. In case you require more is available to purchase in houseboat. 2. Soft drinks are not included in the tour price. But if you want soft drinks while on cruise it is available in houseboat to purchase. ( Please inform me in advance to store enough soft drinks for your use ) 3. All expenditures of personal nature like shopping for gifts.
Meeting location

Kochi, Kerala, 682003, India

1. Kochi International Airport 2. Sagarika Cochin International Cruise Terminal. 3. Hotels/Resorts/Home Stays in and around Kochi. You can suggest your address and I can arrange a pickup.

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Day Trip
Off The Beaten Path
Boat
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Layover
Tour reference number
16514
Languages
English
Activity level
Light
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

4.9

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Kochi best suited for?

This private tour in Kochi is perfect for cruise ship passengers looking to explore the serene backwaters of Kerala and the rich heritage of Kochi in a single day. It's also ideal for travellers who want a blend of relaxation and cultural discovery, with the added benefit of connecting with a local guide like Joyce X. for deeper insights.

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

Is this private tour in Kochi suitable for cruise ship passengers as a shore excursion?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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