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The Kerala Backwaters – India River Cruise

The Kerala Backwaters – India River Cruise

From AUD $4,950

Description

Launching in October 2025, the ten cabin Kochi Pandaw has been specially designed for this routing, whilst maintaining the much-loved classic Pandaw cabin and wrap round promenade decks. This will be Pandaw’s fourth ship in India and reflects the increasing demand for river cruises in India.
The Kochi Pandaw will operate weekly an eight-day circular itinerary from Kochi port visiting the main towns and remoter areas of the backwaters with its 900km of waterways that connect rivers with lakes. There will be exciting visits to ancient churches, Hindu temples, artisan villages and the legendry beaches of the Malabar coast.
Cochin International Airport has flights connecting to Europe with the Middle Eastern airlines and direct flights to most South-East Asian cities in addition to domestic flights connecting to most major Indian cities.

Trip Name
The Kerala Backwaters - India River Cruise
Days
8
Overview
Vessel Type: Small Ship River Cruise Passenger Capacity: 10 Launching in October 2025, the ten cabin Kochi Pandaw has been specially designed for the backwaters of Kerala, whilst maintaining the much-loved classic Pandaw cabin and wrap round promenade decks. This will be Pandaw’s fourth ship in India and reflects the increasing demand for river cruises in India. ACCOMMODATION 4 upper deck staterooms and 6 main deck stateroomsStaterooms are 170 square feet (16sqm), finished in teak and brassPanoramic French windowKimonos and slippersSpa-branded amenitiesUnlimited mineral waterElectric mini safeImported quality linens with duvet and two kind of pillowsPremium mattressesConvertible bed configurationWelcome flower arrangement and welcome giftMake-up mirrorMulti-configuration plugsGenerous closet space and under-bed storageHair dryerNightly turndown service24hr laundry serviceComplimentary evening canapésYoga mats in all cabins WINING & DINING Local master chef heading an experienced international culinary teamPersonalized meal servicesDaily lean & light menu optionsComplimentary local mineral water, jugged coffee, teas & tisanesExtensive wine list with premium winesWelcome Drink on arrivalWelcome cocktailFarewell ReceptionTheme- and gala dinnersOpen air lounge and barAl fresco bistro style dining ON EXCURSIONS AdmissionsShoe cleaning after excursionsBottled drinking waterWe give away aluminium water bottlesCold towel service after excursionsRefreshing drink following excursions1st aid trained assistant guide to follow all tours and excursions SAFETY & SECURITY All onboard crew is trained and certified as per international marine standardsFire alarm system in all cabins, public areas and back areasFire fighting system in all ship areasExpert marine superintendant24 hour watch on duty ONBOARD STAFF CaptainRiver PilotFirst OfficerChief Engineer1st EngineerElectricianBosun & nautical crewShip managerHousekeepingDiningBar keeperChefsLocal tour guides PUBLIC SPACES Guest relation deckLibrary with contemporary and classic literature

Itinerary



Day 1 - DAY 1 ARRIVE KOCHI
Meet your guide and transfer to Maradu Port to board the RV Kochi Pandaw. After lunch, set off for an orientation tour of Kochi, the exotic capital of Kerala state on the Malabar Coast.
Day 2 - DAY 2 KOCHI
Visit Fort Kochi, St Louis’s church and Jew Town with its old Paradesi synagogue, museums, the Shiva temple, markets and much else. Afternoon sail to a village of coir weavers/shell harvesters and see many indigenous techniques of local fishing by small scale Chinese nets and fish traps.
Day 3 - DAY 3 THE THANNERMEKKOM BUND
The Syrian Village in Kerala showcases a unique blend of traditional Syrian Christian culture and heritage. Explore its distinctive architecture, historic churches, and local customs. This village offers a glimpse into the rich, diverse cultural tapestry of Kerala's Syrian Christian community.In the afternoon visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary followed by the Craft Museum, showcasing Kerala’s rich artisanal heritage. Explore traditional crafts, including intricate wood carvings, handwoven textiles, and vibrant pottery. This museum offers a unique glimpse into the region's cultural craftsmanship and artistic traditions.
Day 4 - DAY 4 NATTAKAM
The Munroe lighthouse for panoramic views of the Kerala coastline. This historic lighthouse, built in 1885, guides ships with its striking beacon. Explore its rich maritime history and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the Arabian Sea and surrounding landscapes.
Day 5 - DAY 5 KAVALAM
At this fishing village canals meet and here experience traditional Kerala life. Explore the picturesque waterways, bustling fishing activities, and authentic village charmOn to Kettuvalom to visit a boat yard where traditional methods of wooden boat building by joining wooden planks using coir, cotton and natural resin.After lunch, explore Allapphuza (Alleppey) Harbour on foot, a bustling hub of Kerala’s backwater network with traditional houseboats and vibrant fishing activities. This lively port offers a glimpse into the local maritime culture and the scenic beauty of the region’s interconnected waterways.
Day 6 - DAY 6 ALLAPUZHA - THOTTAPALLI
Sail the Pampa River and visit ancestral home of Kuriakose Elias Chavara, the birthplace of this revered saint and social reformer, and gain insights into his life, contributions, and Kerala's Christian heritage.Sail on to Champakulam, and the Kalloorkad St. Mary’s Basilica founded in AD427 and is one of the oldest churches in India. Renowned for its impressive Gothic architecture, the basilica features intricate stained-glass windows, soaring spires, and detailed frescoes. The basilica is a major pilgrimage site, drawing visitors for its annual feast of the Virgin Mary. Nearby, is the Karumadi Kuttan, a monumental black stone Buddha that dates to the 9th century, reflecting the region's ancient Buddhist influences.Evening moor in Thottapalli where it is a short stroll to the glistening white beaches.
Day 7 - DAY 7 PERUMPALAM
After a morning walk on the beach at Thottapalli return up the Pampa River to re-enter the Venband Lake and on to Perumpalam Bhagavathy Temple, a notable temple with female priests it is renowned for its unique practice of women priests. Then visit the ancient village of Mannar, known for its metal work. Watch the casting of traditional lamps, ornate locks, bells, cauldrons, and various vessels used in temples.
Day 8 - DAY 8 RETURN - KOCHI FOR DISEMBARKATION
Dissembarkation and transfers to the Cochi International Airport.
Day 9 - Please note:
Itineraries are subject to change. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
23-09-202530-09-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
23-09-202530-09-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
30-09-202507-10-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
30-09-202507-10-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
08-10-202515-10-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
08-10-202515-10-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
15-10-202522-10-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
15-10-202522-10-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
23-10-202530-10-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
23-10-202530-10-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
31-10-202507-11-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
31-10-202507-11-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
08-11-202515-11-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
08-11-202515-11-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
15-11-202522-11-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
15-11-202522-11-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
23-11-202530-11-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
23-11-202530-11-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
01-12-202508-12-2025AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
01-12-202508-12-2025AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
14-01-202621-01-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
14-01-202621-01-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
21-01-202628-01-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
21-01-202628-01-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
29-01-202605-02-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
29-01-202605-02-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
05-02-202612-02-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
05-02-202612-02-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
13-02-202620-02-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
13-02-202620-02-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
21-02-202628-02-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
21-02-202628-02-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
28-02-202607-03-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
28-02-202607-03-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
08-03-202615-03-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
08-03-202615-03-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
16-03-202623-03-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
16-03-202623-03-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing
23-03-202630-03-2026AUD $4,950Main Deck Twin Sharing
23-03-202630-03-2026AUD $6,188Upper Deck Twin Sharing

Inclusions

    • Board RV Kochi Pandaw and explore Kochi's vibrant culture and history.
    • Experience traditional Kerala life in Kavalam and explore the historic boat-building techniques.
    • Visit St. Mary’s Basilica, an ancient church, and explore Kerala's diverse spiritual heritage.

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