Brunton Boatyard

This heritage structure stands on the famous Cochin harbour. With all their rooms facing the Arabian Sea, what could be a better accommodation option in Cochin? A refurbished shipyard, Brunton Boatyard Hotel resurrects memories of the 19^th-century tales it holds.Even after hundreds of years Cochin has retained its colonial glory in its historical monuments, bungalows and other buildings. We can say that Brunton Boatyard stands on the top of that list. Owned by CGH Earth, it is a thrilling experience that unfolds at this hotel. The best of services are available here.The boatyard used to be in the hands of Geo. Brunton and Sons. Even after long disuse, its apt location made it possible to be one of India’s best-kept hotels.

Built with materials such as brick, lime, wood and terracotta, its décor has been maintained to this day. The tiled forecourt, arches, spacious lobby and the corridors take us back to an era of pomp and glory. The reception area leads to a lounge overhung with punkahs (fans of Portuguese origin), then on to a billiard table. Around the corner is an English tea room. You can see ancient Dutch maps on a wall, and on another, a small navigation device, and in the courtyard, an ancient anchor.

Plunge into the hotel’s pool on a sunny day, or read a book by the sea waters. Even better, go for a swim at the Fort Kochi beach! If you wanna go boating, the hotel’s crew will get you a cruise. Really. One that you can board from the hotel’s private jetty.

The hotel’s 22 rooms overlook the sea, and so do the en-suite bathrooms! You can choose from regular rooms, or the stately Harbour suites. The beds are comfy and plush – just what you need after a hectic of travel or shopping.

The History Restaurant serves delectable cuisine – from coastal Malabari fare and Kerala’s Syrian Christian dishes to spicy, mouthwatering ones passed down from generations in the state. Occasionally, there are cuisines from other parts of the world for the tourists to try their hand at.

The Armoury Bar, too, looks out on to the harbour. Watch dolphins dancing by on the water as you sip in your evening drink. For the teetotalers there’s a selection of fine teas. You can find Portuguese breastplates and musketry for company, at the bar!

The hotel is easily reachable from the city and around. There are heritage structures, art galleries, churches, temples and others nearby.

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