Boating on the Sharavathi River backwaters is the single best thing to do in Honavar. The river spreads into a web of estuaries, lagoons and channels before it meets the Arabian Sea, lined with mangroves, coconut islands and fishing villages.
Traditional wooden country boats, motorboats and speedboats are hired by the hour, each with a local boatman who knows the river. A typical ride takes in mangrove channels, the estuary, Mavinakurve island and fishing hamlets. From the river mouth you can see Basavaraj Durga island offshore.
Go at high tide. The backwaters are full and at their most beautiful; at low tide boats can't reach some channels. Ask your operator for the high-tide time and book accordingly. Sunset slots are the most popular.
Touts on the road will try to sell you rides. Skip them and go straight to the jetty to deal with boatmen directly. Many boats do not carry life jackets and there have been fatal accidents: insist on a life jacket for everyone before you board.
Tips
- Several homestays (Shalom, Casa Ardilla, Riveria Palms) run their own boats.
- Agree the route and duration before setting off.
