Tell me about Goa and Cochin
 

We are considering a cruise that has these ports in India: Cochin, New Mangalore, Goa and Mumbai. We know that New Mangalore doesn't have much to recommend it, and have a pretty good fix on what we'd do for a day in Mumbai. But are Cochin and Goa great places to spend a day - and if so, why? What are your recommendations for activities there? We enjoy looking at pretty beaches, but not spending hours lounging in the sun.

If you don't care about the beaches in Goa, can you get to Panjim and Old Goa from the cruise port? Quite a lot to see in Fort Kochi, any guidebook has a list.

Old Goa is fascinating and Ft. Cochin/Kochi is one of my favorite small towns in India for strolling. But as mentioned, it depends on where your ship docks and transport options. But I cannot imagine that you won't be able to visit both if they're scheduled stops.

In Ft. Kochi, a highlight, the Kerala Kathakali Theatre, if you'll be there in the evening. http://www.kathakalicentre.com/

Old Goa is a huge atmospheric Portuguese grouping of churches and includes an active convent. I chatted with one of the nuns walking along the sidewalk and she invited me inside and fed me lunch. I wouldn't count on that happening but it's left me with a huge fondness for Old Goa. It's very worthwhile even without your own nun.

Cochin still has its little synagogue...one of the few in all of India. The Cochins found there way to Israel when it became independent un 1948 but I believe the little synagogue is still there

Goa sandy beaches, lively nightlife and world heritage architectural spots attract over 2 million international and domestic tourists every year.