On Board - Once all Guests are on board, the boat sets sail along the main waterway on Vembanad Lake and enters the Alleppey Canal. Guests can actively participate with the local fishermen and understand the life cycle of 'karimeen' also known as 'pearl spot'. The Vessel sails the scenic waterways for four hours and returns to the Vembanad Lake in time for the sunset. Later in the evening guests can enjoy a performance of the highly ritualised 'Kathakali' dance which tells stories from the ancient Hindu epics - Ramayana and Mahabarata. The performances begin with the application of elaborate make-up which is based on traditional Ayurvedic principles. Sailing through scenic backwaters, guests can observe life along these water highways while passing through one of the few areas in the world where farming is done below sea level.

Guests will be transferred to a traditional rice boat to navigate through the narrower sections of the backwaters and will observe and experience a way of life unique to the region, accompanied by a guide. These sections of the cruise includes a visit to the half-statue of Lord Buddha at Karumadi and a traditional Kerala tharavad (Family residance).

The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda passes through picturesque stretches of the backwater on the way back to Alleppey, known as the 'Venice of the East'.  You will now sail from the Vembanad Lake jetty and head south, past Kanjippadam were guests get transferred onto the rice boat for a pre-lunch sightseeing excursion. Guests will be able to visit St. Marys Church, established by St. Thomas in 1721 and Sree Bhagavathy Kshetram a 100 year old Hindu temple to Mother Goddness at Nedumudy. Guests can also explore the Chambakulam snake boat yard, which displays one of the traditional long snake boats used in races.

To further the understading and appreciation of this experience, a qualified guide will be present on board for the full day after cruising through the backwaters. In the afternoon, The Oberoi Motor Vessel Vrinda will return to Vembanad Lake were guests can enjoy a 'Mohiniattam' recital on board. This classical dance form, distinctive to Kerela, is also called the 'Dance of the Enchantress'. Dancers attired in beautiful traditional costumes perform with slow, graceful movements and highly emotive expressions.

The Vessel will sail north/south along the main waterway channel on the Vembanad Lke and head south, past  Pallathurathy.

A very unique experience.