Shaam bhi koi jaise hai nadi. Lehar lehar jaise beh rahi hai... how many times have you liked an Insta reel with the Aisha track playing in the background or have wanted to do the same during sunset? We got our chance to catch a breathtaking sunset recently when we opted for a one-of-a-kind nouka experience in the heart of the city, courtesy Nauka Ride Experience by Polo Floatel on Strand Road. The hotel with marine theme has curated this experience for guests to enjoy the scenic view of the iconic Howrah Bridge and Vidyasagar Setu. With boatmen dressed in kurta-pyjama, a lovely floral decor and picnic basket awaiting, and with our life jackets on, we set sail for an hour and came back mesmerised.
“We love the river and want Polo Floatel to be the centre of how Kolkatans celebrate their very own river. Our bespoke boat ride experience was the most visceral and traditional way one could celebrate a sunset on the river. As such we curated the whole experience around Kolkata down to the prajapati biscuits and the khullar chai,” said Deval Tibrewalla, CEO, Hotel Towers Group .
Safety is of utmost priority, hence before boarding the boat, one needs to fasten life jackets.
If you have a special day in mind to celebrate, this is a must-try experience.We spotted couple Aman Goswami and Drishti Nihalani (picture above) popping the proposal! “A proposal is a once-in-a lifetime event, I was on the lookout to do it in a unique way to make my partner feel special. Both of us are nature lovers and that’s what prompted me to choose the spot — complete with extraordinary views of the serene river and towering Howrah Bridge. The nouka at Polo Floatel made for a dreamy setting, making the occasion more memorable,” said Aman.
What’s a boat ride without some munchies? There are three types of set menu that one could pick from — Early Morning menu (smoothie, tea, coffee or juice, fresh fruits, prajapati biscuits, poha or upma, kathi roll or chola luchi and sandesh), Desi menu (Tea in khullar, jhaal muri, piyaji and aloo chop, prajapati biscuits and sandesh) and Videsi menu (tea or coffee, cookies, vegetable canapes, Naga chilli cheese toast and fruit tarts).
The ride incudes:
•Sustainable speakers
•Polaroid picture
•Picnic basket with food
•Floral arrangements
•Customisation of the experience as per the occasion is also available.
What: Nauka Ride Experience
Where: Starts from Polo Floatel
Timings: Starts at 6am, last ride time 5.15pm
Guests: Maximum number of guests allowed is four. Additional guest charges are Rs 1,000-plus (inclusive of the food)
Pocket pinch: Prices start at Rs 3,999-plus