While cruising on houseboats on the backwaters lasting several hours, food and drinks are provided according to the preferences of the guests. Bottled mineral water, soft drinks including Coca-cola and Pepsi, tea, coffee, etc. are usually made available by the operators. Packed foods, fruits, etc. can be ordered beforehand. In some houseboats, one of the crew is a cook who prepares dishes according to the preferences of the guests. Or the guests themselves can prepare anything they want in the kitchenette.

In houseboats owned and operated by resorts, guests are served breakfast, lunch and dinner at appropriate times, at the resort itself or while cruising on the houseboat.

Different operators provide different types of food. Western style dishes are provided by some. Many tour operators provide traditional Kerala cuisine with exotic flavors, including delicious fish preparation with prawns, shrimp and other local fishes. Guests interested in angling or using nets to catch fish can get their catch fried or cooked aboard, with the Kerala spices.

Coconut juice and the tender, white, edible flesh inside the shell, are safe to drink and eat. Bananas and plantains of several varieties are also enjoyable. Orange, apple, grape, etc. are brought from other states in India.

Guests at resorts and on houseboats can choose from the menu available.