KERALA BACKWATERS SHORT CRUISE

Welcome aboard the RV Kochi Pandaw. Enjoy lunch on the Upper Deck as we cast off from the Panangad Jetty . In the afternoon, take a 30-minute drive to the Kerala Folklore Museum, a cultural hub preserving the diverse heritage of South India. Continue to Fort Kochi to explore the Vasco da Gama church, Jewish Street, and the iconic Chinese fishing nets. Return to the ship for an evening cocktail hour and dinner.

After breakfast, embark on a morning excursion to the Vaikom Mahadeva Temple, one of the supreme shrines devoted to Lord Shiva. Popularly known as the "Kashi of the South," this temple is a classic example of traditional Kerala architecture and is believed to have been built by Parasurama, an incarnation of Vishnu. Return to the ship and cast off for Kumarakom while enjoying lunch. In the afternoon, experience Kathakali, a traditional Indian dance-drama from Kerala that combines dance, music, acting, and elaborate costumes to tell stories from Indian epics.

We sail this morning to Nattakam, a serene village known for its lush greenery. We board a traditional country boat (shikara) for a relaxed sail, offering great bird and wildlife spotting along the way. From here, we take a walk to the Munroe Lighthouse, providing the perfect opportunity to see even more wildlife among the surrounding rice fields. Built in 1885, this historic structure guides ships with its striking beacon and serves as a testament to the region's rich maritime history. In the afternoon, we explore Kumarakom, a beautiful village situated on Vembanad Lake. Famous for its mangrove forests and paddy fields, this excursion offers an intimate look at traditional village life in the backwaters.

We cast off for Kainakary and enjoy breakfast. Our morning excursion takes us to the ancestral home of Kuriakose Elias Chavara. Gain insights into the life and contributions of this revered saint and social reformer, as well as Kerala's Christian heritage. After lunch on board, step ashore for a walk through Kavalam village. Visit St. Mary's Jacobite Syrian Church, a testament to ancient Christian traditions. This evening, enjoy a mesmerising Mohiniattam performance, a classical dance of Kerala showcasing elegance and storytelling through graceful movements.

Before departing the vessel this morning, complete check-out formalities and hand your luggage to the Pandaw crew, who will load it directly onto your onward transfer vehicle. Sail towards Alleppey and disembark for a guided excursion to the Revi Karunakaran Memorial Museum. Established in 2006, this fascinating site showcases a fine collection of art, crystal, and rare artifacts gathered by the Karunakaran family over three generations. Following the tour, collect your gourmet packed lunch box and board your shared, air-conditioned vehicle for the scenic drive to Kochi (1.5 hours to central Kochi or 2.5 hours to Cochin International Airport).