In a novel move to tap into the growing demand for budget-friendly water tourism, the Kerala State Water Transport Department (SWTD) has launched a pilot programme. The initiative cleverly repurposes its regular passenger ferries into special tourist cruises during weekends and public holidays.
From Commuter Lifeline to Tourist Gateway
On weekdays, these vessels remain the essential transport backbone for local communities. However, come the weekend, they transform into gateways for exploring God's Own Country's famed inland waterways. The innovative scheme was first introduced as a three-month trial on the Changanassery-Rajapuram sector in central Kerala on Christmas Day, 2025. It was met with immediate enthusiasm from travelers.
A senior SWTD official highlighted the overwhelming response. "Our revenue collection was over Rs 20,000 for one Sunday (December 29), in contrast to the approximate Rs 3,000 daily average we earn during weekdays," the official stated. The service primarily targets tourists visiting eastern regions like Pathanamthitta and Kottayam, who previously had to travel to Alappuzha or Kumarakom for a backwater experience. "Now, the cruise comes to them," the official added.
Turning Logistical Drain into a Cash Cow
During weekdays, the passenger boat serves the crucial Changanassery-Alappuzha route, ferrying students and office-goers with stops at Kidangara and Kavalam. Historically, these routes saw nearly empty vessels plying for 2.5 hours on holidays. By pivoting to a tourist model on these idle days, the SWTD has successfully turned a logistical drain into a revenue-generating venture.
The special holiday service, launched on Christmas Day 2025, operates two trips daily at 11 am and 3 pm. Tourists are charged Rs 200 per person for the three-hour scenic journey. A flexible fare option allows passengers to deboard midway for a reduced rate of Rs 100.
"We can't suddenly deploy new boats in new sections without knowing if they are feasible," explained the SWTD official. "Repurposing allows us to test the waters, literally, before committing heavy capital." Inspired by the initial success, SWTD director Shaji V Nair has asked officials in Kannur to study the feasibility of using a passenger boat at Payyannur as a tourist vessel to the Kavvayi islands.
Future Plans and Commuter Concerns
If the pilot proves sustainable, the SWTD plans to introduce on-board food, entertainment, and expand the model to the popular backwaters of Kochi and Kollam. However, the shift has raised concerns about the impact on daily commuters.
M M Abbas, president of the West Kochi Passengers Association, voiced the apprehension of the working class. "Daily labourers use these services even on holidays. They cannot afford the ‘special' rates," he said. Abbas emphasized the need for uninterrupted usual schedules, ensuring that tourism promotion does not come at the expense of reliable and affordable transport for residents. He cited the example of the Fort Kochi-Ernakulam section, where two boats already operate with special holiday fares of Rs 20 instead of the usual Rs 6.
This innovative pilot represents a significant step by the SWTD to diversify its services and revenue streams while promoting accessible tourism. Its balance between economic opportunity and public service obligation will be key to its long-term success.
