Cochin Sagarani, operated by the Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation (KSINC), is one of Kochi’s most popular cultural and sightseeing cruises. It’s a two-hour evening cruise that sails from the Marine Drive Jetty, offering passengers a chance to enjoy the backwaters and Kochi harbour while experiencing Kerala’s vibrant performing arts, music, and traditional cuisine.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family with kids, the Sagarani cruise is one of the top things to do in Kochi for an authentic cultural evening on the water.
Top Attractions on the Sagararani Cruise
1. Sunset Harbour Cruise
Sailing through Kochi Harbour and backwaters as the sun sets is the highlight of the trip. The double-deck boat offers open-air seating on top and AC seating inside.
Timings: 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹500 (Adults), ₹250 (Children)
Boarding Point: KSINC Jetty, Marine Drive, Kochi
Hidden Tip: Arrive 30 minutes early to grab an upper-deck seat for the best sunset photos.
2. Cultural Performances Onboard
The cruise doubles as a floating cultural theatre where you can watch Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kalaripayattu (martial arts), and live percussion shows.
Cost: Included in ticket
Best Time: Evening after sunset when the stage lights enhance performances
Family-Friendly Activity: Kids enjoy the martial art demos and drumming sessions
Hidden Tip: Sit close to the stage area on the lower deck for the best cultural show views.
3. Kerala Dinner Buffet
Most packages include a traditional Kerala buffet served with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. Signature dishes include Karimeen Pollichathu (pearl spot fish), prawn curry, Kerala parotta, and sadya-style vegetarian meals.
Dinner Cost: Usually included; seafood add-ons ₹200–₹300
Timing: Served towards the end of the cruise
Hidden Tip: If you’re vegetarian, request a sadya-style thali in advance.
4. DJ, Music & Dance Floor
Toward the end of the cruise, the staff plays lively DJ music, and guests are encouraged to dance. It’s a fun way to wrap up the evening.
Cost: Free, part of cruise
Hidden Tip: Join in! Families and groups say this is one of the most memorable parts.
Sagararani Boating Facilities Onboard
Double-deck seating (AC hall + open-air deck)
Life jackets & safety crew
Restrooms onboard
Cultural stage and audio system
Buffet service counters
How to Book Tickets for Sagararani Cruise
Online: mycruise.kerala.gov.in (official KSINC site)
Phone Booking: +91 98462 11143 (KSINC office)
Counter Booking: KSINC Jetty, Marine Drive, Kochi
👉 Booking online is recommended during weekends and peak season.
Best Season to Visit Sagararani Boating
October to March: Best time (pleasant weather and clear sunsets)
June to September (Monsoon): Cruise still runs but usually stays within backwaters instead of venturing into the sea. Discounted tickets often available.
April to May: Hotter evenings, but less crowded.
Sagararani Nearby Tourist Attractions
Fort Kochi (5 km) – Chinese fishing nets & heritage streets
Mattancherry Palace (6 km) – Dutch Palace with murals
Bolgatty Island (3 km) – Historic palace resort
Marine Drive Walkway – Right at the boarding point
Sagararani Boating Traveler Reviews
🌟 Positive Experiences
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Perfect way to end the day in Kochi” – Tourists love the combination of sunset views, cultural dance, and dinner.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Family-friendly and fun” – Parents appreciated that kids enjoyed the martial arts demo.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Value for money” – Many travelers found the ₹500–₹600 ticket well worth the 2-hour experience.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “DJ session was a blast” – Groups say the music and dance floor added a lively finish.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Safe and comfortable” – Life jackets and staff service were reassuring for families.
⚠️ Negative Experiences
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “DJ music too loud” – Some travelers felt the music volume could be toned down.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Sea entry missing in monsoon” – Guests in rainy season were disappointed that the cruise stayed inside backwaters.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Food quality average” – A few reviews mention the buffet could be improved.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Crowded weekends” – Upper deck seats get filled fast; latecomers ended up inside.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ “Limited vegetarian options” – Non-meat eaters wanted more variety.
💡 Hidden Tips for Cochin Sagararani Boating
Arrive by 6:00 PM – Boarding is on a first-come basis. Early arrival ensures the best upper-deck seats for sunset photography.
Weekdays are better – Cruises are less crowded on weekdays, making the cultural shows and buffet more enjoyable.
Carry a light jacket/shawl – Evenings on the backwaters can be breezy, especially on the open deck.
Vegetarian meals – Inform staff in advance if you’re vegetarian so they prepare a sadya-style platter for you.
Right side seating = best views – Sit on the starboard side while departing to capture Kochi skyline, Chinese fishing nets, and harbour sunsets.
Check weather before booking – Monsoon cruises usually stick to backwaters (no sea entry). For full experience, book between October–March.
Bring small cash notes – Handy for tea, snacks, or small tips to performers/staff.
Advance booking in season – December–February cruises sell out fast. Book via mycruise.kerala.gov.in 2–3 days before.
Family with kids? – Sit near the stage; children often get called up during martial arts or percussion demos.
Combine with Marine Drive Walk – Reach early and enjoy a sunset stroll on the Marine Drive promenade before boarding.
Cochin Sagarani Boating is more than just a cruise, it’s a complete Kerala cultural experience on water. With backwater views, live traditional performances, delicious food, and fun entertainment, it is one of the top tourist activities in Kochi.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the Sagarani cruise offers a budget-friendly way to enjoy Kerala’s traditions in just two magical hours.
👉 If you’re looking for the best things to do in Kochi in the evening, Cochin Sagararani Boating should be at the top of your list!
