Kochi Shore Excursion: Cochin Harbor Cruise with Glimpse of Cochin Private Tour
Active
6h - 7h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Join this 7-hour private day tour to see the most important attractions in and around Fort Cochin and Mattanchery. This excursion also includes a motorboat cruise around the Cochin (Kochi) Harbor area and Bolghatty Island.
Available options
Private Tour -Morning
Private Tour with a English Speaking Local Guide.<br/>Pickup included
Private Tour -Afternoon
Private Tour with a English Speaking Local Guide.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Non-AC City motorboat cruise
Transport by AC private vehicle
Private English-speaking local guide
Port /Hotel pickup and drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Pick up from Cochin Cruise Port or your Hotel in Cochin and transferred to Marin Drive for approximately 30 minutes. Upon arrival, board the motorboat to cruise the city and some surrounding areas for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The cruise will finish in Fort Cochin.
You will then Jew Town and the Jewish Synagogue, a central location for the spice trade and Visit the Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)Please note: The Jewish Synagogue is closed on Friday, Saturday and on Jewish holidays. The Dutch Palace is closed on Friday and government holidays.
If your schedule allows, shop for spices, handicrafts or stop to enjoy lunch (at own expense).
Next, you will visit Santa Cruz Basilica, one the largest and most impressive churches in India.
Continue your stroll down to St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India.
Finally, visit the Chinese fishing nets ,Kochi fishermen still use the fishing nets to earn their livelihoods.
You will be transferred back to the port or your Hotel
2
Board your motorboat and cruise for 1.30-2 hours
3
Stop 3
Visit
4
Stop 4
Visit
5
Stop 5
Visit
6
Stop 6
Visit
7
Stop 7
visit
8
Stop 8
visit
9
Return back to Cochin Port or Your hotel in Cochin
What's not included
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note : The Jewish Synagogue is closed on Friday, Saturday and on Jewish holidays. The Dutch Palace is closed on Friday and government holidays.
A valid Indian tourist visa is required to visit the port of Cochin.
A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums (Male: Shirt /pants; Female: Full sleeve top/shirt and Knee-covered skirt or pants)
Children must be accompanied by an adult
At time of booking, Cruise ship passengers must provide the following information at time of booking: ship name, docking time, disembarkation time and re-boarding time
Refunds will not be issued if tour/activity is missed due to late or non-arrival of cruise ship
Important notes
• Staff / your guide will be waiting for you at ships berth holding a "VIATOR" signboard and a blue umbrella
• A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Note : Jewish Synagogue will be closed on Friday /Saturday /Jewish Holidays /Jewish Passover days and Dutch Palace will be close on Fridays and Governent Holidays
• Note : Valid Indian Tourist Visa is required to get down in port of Cochin ,which should be applied before boarding the ship
About Kochi
Kochi, known as the Queen of the Arabian Sea, is a vibrant port city in the southern Indian state of Kerala. It's a captivating blend of historical architecture, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.
Top Attractions
Fort Kochi
Fort Kochi is a historic area known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks. It's a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to visit most attractions
Mattancherry Palace
Also known as the Dutch Palace, this 16th-century palace is a fine example of colonial architecture and houses a museum with artifacts from the era.
Historical
1-2 hours
INR 5 (USD 0.07) for Indians, INR 100 (USD 1.30) for foreigners
Jew Town
A historic area known for its Jewish heritage, vibrant markets, and antique shops. It's a great place to explore the city's multicultural past.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to explore, shopping expenses vary
Marine Drive
A picturesque promenade along the backwaters, offering stunning views of the sunset and the city's skyline. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Scenic
1-2 hours
Free
Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary
A small but beautiful bird sanctuary located in the heart of the city. It's a peaceful retreat for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Appam with Stew
Appam is a soft, lacy pancake made from fermented rice batter and coconut milk, served with a mild and creamy vegetable or meat stew.
Breakfast
Vegetarian (if stew is vegetarian), Vegan (if stew is vegan)
Karimeen Pollichathu
A popular Kerala dish made with pearl spot fish, marinated in spices, and fried to perfection.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish
Kerala Parippu Curry
A comforting dal made with yellow lentils, coconut, and spices, served with rice or appam.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian, Vegan
Thalassery Biryani
A fragrant and flavorful biryani made with basmati rice, meat (chicken, mutton, or fish), and a blend of spices.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains meat (chicken, mutton, or fish)
Popular Activities
Backwater cruises
Kayaking
Trekking in Munnar
Beach relaxation in Kovalam
Ayurvedic massages
Houseboat stays in Alleppey
Exploring Fort Kochi
Visiting Mattancherry Palace
Best Time to Visit
October to February
This is the best time to visit Kochi, with pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's ideal for exploring the city's attractions and enjoying outdoor activities.
25°C to 32°C
77°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Malayalam
- Widely spoken: English, Hindi
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Indian Rupee (INR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Kochi is generally safe for travelers, but it's always important to stay vigilant and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Use trusted transportation services, such as app-based cabs or reputable taxi companies.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
- • Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Cochin International Airport • 29 km (18 miles) from city center
By train
Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town
By bus
KSRTC Bus Station, Private Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable mode of transport in Kochi. They cover most parts of the city and its suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Ola, Uber
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Fort Kochi
Mattancherry
Ernakulam
Vypeen Island
Day trips
Alleppey (Alappuzha)
55 km (34 miles) • Full day
Alleppey is famous for its backwaters, houseboat stays, and serene landscapes. It's a perfect day trip for those looking to experience the tranquility of Kerala's waterways.
Munnar
130 km (81 miles) • Full day or overnight
Munnar is a picturesque hill station known for its tea plantations, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes. It's a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Kovalam
16 km (10 miles) • Full day
Kovalam is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful beaches, lighthouse, and Ayurvedic treatment centers. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand.
Festivals
Onam • August-September (dates vary based on the Malayalam calendar)
Kochi-Muziris Biennale • December to March (biennial, next edition in 2023)
Easter Celebrations • March-April (dates vary based on the Christian calendar)
Pro tips
- Visit the Chinese Fishing Nets in Fort Kochi early in the morning to see the fishermen at work.
- Try local street food, such as banana chips and Kathi rolls, for an authentic culinary experience.
- Explore the backwaters of Kochi by taking a ferry or a houseboat tour for a unique and scenic experience.
- Learn a few basic phrases in Malayalam to connect with locals and enhance your cultural experience.
- Attend a Kathakali performance or a Kalaripayattu demonstration to immerse yourself in Kerala's rich cultural heritage.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
