Kottayam: A semi air-conditioned high-speed boat service has been launched on the Kottayam-Alappuzha route. The ferry, named 'Vega,' can be utilized as a passenger boat as well as a tourists' vessel. In fact, the schedule for Vega is arranged in such a way that that it carries regular commuters on the Kottayam-Alappuzha stretch and tourists between Alappuzha and Kumarakom.
Starting its daily trips from Kottayam to Alappuzha in the morning, Vega returns to Kottayam from Alappuzha in the evening. In the intervening period, it plies tourists from Alappuzha to Kumarakom. The timing of the boat is beneficial for daily travellers from Kottayam to Alappuzha.
Timetable
It starts from Kodimatha in Kottayam at 7.30 am to reach Alappuzha by 9.30 am. The return trip starts from Alappuzha at 5.30 pm and arrives in Kottayam by 7.30 pm.
Stops
Pallom, Krishnankutty Moola, Kamalante Moola, Mangalassery and Punchiri.
Alappuzha-Kumarakom trip
Leaves Alappuzha at 10 am to reach Kumarakom by 1.15 pm. The route is via Punnamada, Muhamma, Kayippuram, Pathiramanal, and Thanneermukkom Bund.
From Kumarakom, the ferry starts at 2.15 pm to reach Alappuzha by 4.30 pm.
Tourists travelling in Vega can enjoy sights such as Pathiramanal, Kumarakom bird sanctuary and others.
Vega details
There are 120 seats; 80 in the non-AC section and 40 in the AC. Built on two catamarans, Vega has a speed of 12 nautical miles, which is faster than regular boats.
The length of Vega is 22 m and breadth 7.5 m; facilities onboard include a music system.
Fare
Kottayam to Alappuzha: AC Rs 100; non-AC Rs 50.
Alappuzha to Kumarakom: AC Rs 300; non-AC Rs 200.