Lotus Houseboat, Neeleshwar India, Kerala

Fondly described as a “houseboat of unequalled style”, Lotus Boat certainly does set itself apart from the many other houseboats populating the Kerala backwaters. This is a high-end boating experience offering plenty of privacy, a decent amount of space, and great facilities for families.

The backwaters in Kerala’s north are undiscovered gems, and an absolute pleasure to explore in comparison to their overpopulated counterparts in the southern part of the region. Guests can board either from the Sultan Canal just outside of Kannur, or in Neeleshwar.  Highlights in the region include the beaches at Thaikadapuram (watch out for the beautiful native and rare Olive Ridley turtles), Kottappuram, the access point for the Kasaragod backwaters, and the cool and verdant Kavus (sacred groves), places to reflect, retreat, and celebrate. You can hop on and off the boat to explore the local villages. On board, you can practice yoga, enjoy Ayurvedic treatments, take your meals al fresco on the sun deck, or participate in cooking courses.

Lotus is a two-bedroom rice barge spanning 32 metres with teak floors, lovely en-suite bathrooms, and plenty of space and light. The bedrooms are aptly named “happiness” and “beauty”, and each bedroom has its own private sitting-out area. It’s stylish and slick, the crew is friendly, and the cuisine is top notch. This is a fantastic private experience in the unspoilt north, particularly well suited for families.