Kerala Boats: Decorative Boats that Carry the Spirit of Backwaters

Introduction

Kerala, referred to as God's own country, is admired across the world for its peaceful backwaters and traditional boats. These backwaters are known for Houseboats that allow visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kerala and its cultural heritage. Traditional boats of Kerala are linked to daily life, trade networks and cultural festivals across the globe. It is not just a mode of transportation but a symbol of Kerala’s way of life. These decorative Kerala boats are inspired by the traditional Kerala boats. Handcrafted by skilled artisans, these boats are an embodiment of real vessels which connect people to the culture of Kerala. In this blog, we will explore the history behind Kerala boats and why these handcrafted pieces by Natriel are a perfect addition to your home.

Decorative Kerala Boats – Icon of Kerala’s Water Heritage

Image source: Pinterest

Kerala’s traditional boats are popular for their unique design, i..e Kettuvallams, which were earlier used for trade and are now used for backwater tourism. The other boat is Chundam Vallam, which is a Snake boat used for racing, and the last one is Uru, i.e. ancient dhows built in Beypore. These decorative boats are exact replicas of the traditional Kerala boats, which are perfect to fill your home with Kerala’s rich tradition. This boat won’t be just preferred by Keralites but also by water lovers. It will serve as a souvenir for people who have experienced Kerala’s backwaters as a gentle reminder of time spent in scenic beauty.

These boats are crafted using premium-quality wood with artisanal detailing and hand-polishing, which gives these boats an authentic look. This boat is handcrafted by skilled artisans who have previously made real boats to preserve original forms. It is a handcrafted, premium-quality decorative boat which is better than mass-produced, cheap souvenirs.

Types of Decorative Boats with Natriel

1. Kettuvallam Boats (Traditional Kerala Houseboat) Kettuvallam are traditional houseboats with large, thatched roofs that are used for backwater tourism. They provide a unique way to explore the scenic backwaters of Kerala. These miniature Kerala houseboats for home decor will bring a sense of calm and warmth to your space. Their distinctive form will serve as a beautiful statement décor piece for shelves, console table and office spaces.
2. Vallam Boats (Cargo Boats)  Vallam boats are classic wooden vessels from Kerala, traditionally used for transportation in rivers and backwaters. They are decorative boats which reflect functionality and simplicity, making them perfect for any kind of space. These boats are perfect for people who appreciate Kerala’s heritage and want to add a touch of culture to their home.
3. Chundam Vallam (Snake Boats) Snake boats are associated with the traditional annual boat race in Kerala. These are long, narrow boats with a distinctive serpentine shape with a raised prow that resembles a snake's hood, used during Vallam Kalli. Natriel offers beautiful decorative boats resembling their original counterparts, which symbolise traditional craftsmanship and cultural pride. They are bold, decorative ships that draw instant attention wherever they are placed. 
4. Decorative Sailing Boats This boat is inspired by traditional sailing vessels, which adds nautical and exploratory character to interiors. These sailing boats feature upright masts and a flowing silhouette that brings a sense of travel. It is ideal for coastal-themed homes or people who are water sports lovers.

These boats are traditional Kerala boat replicas, which will fill your home with a sense of tradition.

Why Decorative Kerala boats make meaningful home décor?

Natriel offers authentic Indian handicraft home décor, which includes traditional Kerala boat replicas that add timeless charm to any space.

• Cultural Charm – Handcrafted wooden Kerala Boat decor has a cultural charm as they are connected to Kerala's backwaters and rivers. It brings a sense of tradition and cultural heritage to the home.

• Handcrafted Elegance– These decorative Kerala boats are handcrafted by skilled artisans from high-quality wood. As it is made by hand, this makes the boat unique and full of character as compared to factory-made items.

• Timeless appeal – Kerala boats are simple yet elegant, which makes it easier to blend in traditional as well as modern homes. It would look perfect in an ethnic or coastal home.

• Symbolic décor – Boats are a symbol of adventure and journey, which makes them a thoughtful décor item that carries it beyond aesthetics. 

• Thoughtful décor – When you choose Handcrafted Kerala boats, you choose artisanal décor and traditional craftsmanship, which is an alternative to mass-produced items.

Decorative Kerala boats as a thoughtful gifting option

Kerala boats are an ideal home décor item, but they can also be used as a gifting item for weddings or other events.

• Meaningful Symbol – Boats are a symbol of journey and new beginnings, which makes them ideal gifts for weddings, housewarming or even anniversaries.

• Inspired by Kerala’s boat Culture – Some of these boats are inspired by houseboats, which are used for experiencing the scenic locales of Kerala backwaters. It adds cultural depth to these pieces, so it feels like a thoughtful gift option for Keralites.

• Handcrafted and unique – These boats are handcrafted by skilled artisans, which makes them unique, as no two boats would be similar.

• Timeless home décor – This is an elegant home décor item which blends with any décor, be it minimalist or sophisticated.

• Conscious gifting – Kerala boats are handcrafted from wood, which makes them a sustainable alternative to other market gifts.

Kerala boats usually go with Coastal minimal décor, Ethnic boho interiors, South Indian traditional aesthetics, Nautical themed rooms and modern plus heritage fusion.

Behind the scenes – Meet the artisans

Each decorative Kerala boat is shaped by skilled artisans of Kerala who have generational knowledge. These artisans have learned traditional craft growing up while learning woodworking from their families. They work in small workshops or village clusters and carve each product with precision and patience. They have hands-on experience in detailing, which makes the product a replica of the original Kerala boats.

Crafting these boats is not just a livelihood but a way to preserve the cultural heritage of Kerala. Every piece is a respect for the water traditions of Kerala and creates a product which will last for a long time. When you purchase from Natriel, you help sustain artisan communities, so these skills continue to thrive in future.

How to style Kerala Boats in your home?

Kerala boats add warmth and culture to homes when they are placed thoughtfully. This handcrafted décor can be styled in a versatile manner in different interiors.

• Shelf and Console – In homes, we can place Kerala boats on open shelves or even sideboards or console tables, which add visual appeal to homes. It is better to keep the décor minimal so the Handcrafted details of the boat could stand out. 

• Coffee table – Kerala boats will work as a subtle centrepiece on the coffee or dining table. If you pair it with neutral linens or brass décor, then it will add a balanced look.

• Entryway – If you position decorative items near the entrance, it will give a welcoming impression, which reflects thoughtful décor choices by the owner.

• Office or Study décor – In the office, a boat would add a touch of heritage, which makes the surroundings calming and inspiring. 

• Layer with natural textures – This boat would look great around woody exteriors, as its organic appeal will create an earthy atmosphere.

Why choose Natriel for purchasing Decorative boats?

• Authentic craftsmanship – Each Kerala boat from Natriel is crafted by skilled artisans who have years of experience, which makes these pieces exceptional.

• Culturally accurate design – Natriel has onboarded artisans who make real Kerala boats like Ketuvallam, Vallam and Snake boats, so they make exact replicas of the original ones.

• Sustainable sourcing – Natriel ensures all the materials are sourced sustainably, which reflects Natriel's commitment towards conscious living. 

• Premium finishing – Natriel boats are handcrafted with thoughtful detailing and finishing, which makes them durable and elegant. They are perfect to be displayed as a collectable décor product for homes.

• Artisan empowerment – Natriel's is committed to empowering artisans by showcasing exceptional art, making it accessible to a wider audience. By ensuring fair remuneration, we help artisans continue practising and preserving traditional art forms.

Care Instructions for Kerala Boat

• Gently dust the boat using a soft dry cloth to remove dirt. Avoid the use of any kind of wet cloth, as it might damage the product.

• Use mild wood polish to maintain the shine of the wood for a long time.

• Keep the boat away from damp areas, as humidity can cause wood to lose its finish over time. 

• Avoid any kind of direct sunlight on the product as it might fade the wood colour. Place the boat in well-lit indoor areas.

Conclusion

Decorative Kerala boats are beautiful home accents which reflect Kerala’s rich water culture, timeless design and skilled craftsmanship. Each piece carries a story of Kerala’s backwaters and artisans that has been passed down through generations. When you bring a Kerala boat into your space then you add a piece of heritage which will blend in with contemporary living. Natriel offers a wide variety of Kerala boats that will bring warmth to your home or office. Also, Kerala boat showpiece for gifting suits every occasion and leaves a lasting impression.

Bring Kerala’s heritage into your home with the authentic Kerala Boats collection.

You can also explore our blog on the cultural significance of Kerala’s Nettipattam here.

FAQ on Kerala Boats

Q.1 What are Kerala Boats used for?

Kerala Boats were traditionally used for trade, fishing, or daily travel across backwaters. Over time, it transformed into houseboats, which were used for exploring Kerala's backwaters and boat races for cultural celebrations. 

Q.2 What are the main types of Kerala boats?

Some of the traditional Kerala boats include kettuvallam, Vallam, and Snake boats, each designed for a specific purpose: transport, living, and racing. 

Q.3 Are these boats handmade?

Decorative Kerala boats are handcrafted by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. 

Q.4 Where can we place decorative Kerala boats in the home?

Decorative Kerala boats can be placed on shelves, coffee tables, office desks, or console tables.

Q.5 Are Kerala boats a good gifting option?

Yes, it is a good gifting option for housewarming, weddings, and marriages as it is a symbol of journey and new beginnings.