KSWTD has decided to start Alappuzha-Kuttanad circular Cruise Boats services.

ALAPPUZHA: Taking cue from the success of Alappuzha-Kollam tourism cruise boat service, the Kerala State Water Transport Department (KSWTD)has decided to start Alappuzha-Kuttanad circular cruise to tap the tourism potential of the district. The construction of the two boats with a capacity of 90 seats is in the final stage at the Kannur Azheekal Boat Construction Yard of Steel Industries Kerala Limited (SILK)
 “The new services will begin in a month. And with the introduction of the new low-cost cruise boats, people will get an opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kuttanad, Vembanad and Ashtamudi lakes with just Rs 300,” KSWTD director Shaji V Nair said.
“The KSWTD started its low-cost cruise for tourists in 2010 and it turned out to be success,” said Shaji V Nair, KSWTD director.
“The collection of the Alappuzha-Kollam cruise boats between September 2010 and May 2011 was over 50 lakh,” he added.  “When private parties are collecting Rs 350 for one hour journey in the back water, the KSWTD is charging only Rs 300 for eight hour journey in Alappuzha-Kollam tourism cruise boats,” he said. The boat journey covers Punnamada lake, Kuttanad paddy fields, the statue of Karumadikuttan, one of the largest statues of Lord Buddha, Pallana Kumarakodi, Thrikkunnapuzha coir village and Amrithapuri-the head quarters of the Matha Amrithanandhamayi mutt,” said Ashokan, finance officer of the SWTD.