15 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Beijing (With Reviews & Prices)

Beijing isn’t just about the sprawling cityscape and historic sites; it also offers some surprisingly memorable boat tours and cruises that let you see China’s northern landscapes from a different perspective. Whether cruising through the Longqing Gorge to admire towering cliffs and karst peaks, or combining water adventures with visits to ancient caves, these experiences bring a fresh dimension to your trip. For example, the Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Guyaju Cave Dwellings Private Day Tour combines boat rides with exploration of rock-carved dwellings, making for a unique blend of natural beauty and history. The private guide and included lunch elevate this to a more intimate experience.

If you’re after a more active water adventure, the Water-Great Wall Odyssey: Hike & Cruise offers hiking, boating, camping, and even rafting beneath the Water Great Wall, a little-known but stunning section of the UNESCO site. For a quick but scenic escape, the Water Great Wall Bus Tour with Boat Ride provides a hassle-free way to enjoy the serene waters and rugged landscapes.

Below, you’ll find a carefully curated list of the 15 best boat tours and cruises around Beijing. Each option offers a distinct way to explore the area’s natural and historical treasures from the water, catering to different tastes and budgets.

1. Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Guyaju Cave Dwellings Private Day Tour

This full-day private tour is perfect for travelers who want a personalized experience outside Beijing’s busy streets. Starting with a boat cruise through Longqing Gorge, you’ll glide past emerald mountains and dramatic cliffs, with passing sights like Baihua Cave and Shenxianyuan Temple. The scenery here is unforgettable—think steep limestone peaks and lush forests. After the cruise, the trip continues to the Guyaju Caves, ancient dwellings carved into the rock face by what is believed to be the Xiyi ethnic minority. The tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and hotel pickup/drop-off. Guests praise the guide’s local knowledge and the chance to combine water and history in one day.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an intimate, scenic escape with historical intrigue and natural beauty, all in one hassle-free package.

2. Water-Great Wall Odyssey: Hike & Cruise One Day Tour

This tour offers a rare chance to see the Water Great Wall, a less-touristed yet breathtaking section of this iconic structure. Praised by locals as the most beautiful part of the Wall, it features majestic ramparts embracing a stunning lake. The tour includes options to hike, boat, camp, or raft beneath the Wall’s sweeping curves, making it perfect for adventure seekers or those craving solitude. The pristine environment and crowd-free atmosphere make it a favorite for authentic experiences. The tour’s flexibility and scenic setting help it stand out for visitors wanting more than just a quick view.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers looking for a peaceful, scenic, and flexible day exploring a mountain-water landscape rarely seen by travelers.

3. Water Great Wall Bus Tour with Boat Ride (Raft Option)

For around $28, this tour combines a bus trip to the Water Great Wall with a boat or raft experience—making it a budget-friendly way to enjoy China’s natural and historical marvels. The tour includes hiking sections, a boat ride on the lake, and even an option to camp at the base or go whitewater rafting beneath ancient watchtowers. The serenity of the area and the chance to see the Wall dipping into waters make it especially appealing for those who want a mix of adventure and tranquility. Guests highlight the crowd-free environment and beautiful scenery.

Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want an active, scenic day with options for thrill-seekers.

4. Din Tai Fung Dinner and VIP Class River Cruise Experience in Shanghai

While not in Beijing, this luxurious evening cruise offers a fantastic combination of river views and diners’ delight—famous for its xialongbao (soup dumplings). Starting with a VIP cruise along the Huangpu River, you’ll see the illuminated skyline of Pudong and the historic Bund from prime vantage points. Afterward, enjoy dinner at the renowned Din Tai Fung. This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a romantic or special night out with personalized service, stunning city views, and delicious food. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and excellent scenery as highlights.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a culinary and scenic cruise in Shanghai, combining comfort, culture, and cuisine.

5. Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling at the Ming Tombs with Lunch and Boat Ride

This private tour offers an all-in-one package to explore the Dingling Tomb—the underground mausoleum of Ming Emperor Zhu Yijun—and cruise through the Longqing Gorge. The visit includes admission to the tomb, a Chinese-style lunch, and a boat ride through the gorge’s emerald peaks and cliffs. These sites are less crowded but rich in history and natural beauty, making the experience more personal. Reviewers appreciate the private guide’s expertise and the seamless logistics, noting it as a highlight of their Beijing stay.

Bottom Line: Best for history lovers who also want natural scenery, all with a private, customized touch.

6. Beijing Private Tour to Badaling Great Wall and Longqing Gorge with Boat Ride

This private day combines the iconic Badaling section of the Great Wall with a boat ride at Longqing Gorge, making it a full day of history and nature. The tour includes cable car tickets at Badaling, saving you the hassle, and a scenic boat ride in the gorge. The guide provides personalized attention while sharing stories about China’s history and landscape. Guests note the smooth logistics and the chance to avoid large tour groups.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a mix of classic site visits and serene water scenery, with the convenience of private transport.

7. 2 Days Beijing Group Tour from Tianjin Cruise Port without Shop Stops

This well-organized 2-day group tour from Tianjin avoids shopping stops and focuses solely on Beijing’s highlights. It features a visit to the Mutianyu Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. The tour includes meals and hotel accommodations, making it a hassle-free way to see Beijing. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guide and value for money, though some mention the hotel’s age as a minor drawback.

Bottom Line: Perfect for cruise travelers wanting a comprehensive, no-frills Beijing experience over two days.

8. 2-Day Private Beijing Excursion with Great Wall from Tianjin Cruise Terminal

For a more luxurious, personalized experience, this private two-day tour takes you from Tianjin to Beijing, including the Great Wall at Mutianyu, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City. Accommodation and all transport are included, making the trip seamless. Guests highlight the less crowded Mutianyu section and the expert guide who shares stories along the way. It’s the most comfortable way to explore if you prefer private rather than group travel.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers seeking comfort, privacy, and a comprehensive itinerary.

9. Private Transit Tours & Transfers from Tianjin Cruise Port

This flexible service allows you to customize your Tianjin to Beijing transfer or sightseeing. You can include a visit to the Great Wall if time allows, making it perfect for those with tight schedules. The tour includes private vehicle and driver, ensuring a stress-free journey. Reviewers mention the timeliness and courteous service as major benefits.

Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a tailored experience and flexibility, especially during layovers or short stays.

10. Private Transfer: Beijing hotel to Tianjin Cruise Port

This private transfer ensures a smooth start to your cruise, with door-to-door service from your hotel to Tianjin port. The luxury vehicle and on-time pick-up make it a reliable option. Reviewers appreciate the comfortable ride and courteous driver, especially helpful with large luggage or tight schedules.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers prioritizing comfort and reliability in their transfer arrangements.

11. Private Longqing Gorge & Guyaju Cave Day Tour w/ Cruise Ride

This private day trip offers flexible exploration of Longqing Gorge and the Guyaju caves, with an included cruise. You’ll enjoy personalized attention and the freedom to spend more time at each site. Guests love that it combines natural scenery with ancient rock dwellings. The driver handles transportation, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the views.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a customized, relaxed day with both nature and history.

12. Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge with Boat Ride and Cable Car from Beijing

This tour is a full-day adventure, including boat rides and a cable car that takes you up to a Taoist temple overlooking the gorge. The scenic ride features views of steep limestone cliffs and wooded mountains. The private driver and guide make logistics seamless, with a relaxed pace perfect for taking photos or enjoying the quiet scenery. Many reviews mention the beautiful environment and easy transportation.

Bottom Line: For travelers seeking natural beauty with added recreational options like cable cars and boating.

13. Beijing: Panjiayuan Market & Liangma River Cruise Night Tour

This evening tour combines shopping at Panjiayuan Market** with a scenic cruise along the Liangma River. It’s a relaxed way to experience local culture and night scenery. The river cruise lasts about 40-50 minutes, offering views of city lights and bridges. The market is a treasure trove for antiques and local snacks. Reviewers mention the exclusive experience and flexible timing.

Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a casual, cultural night combining shopping and riverside views.

14. Beijing Private Tour to Juyongguan Great Wall and Longqing Gorge with Boat Ride

This private tour blends history and nature in a full-day itinerary. Visit the Juyongguan Great Wall, famous for its military significance, and then cruise through Longqing Gorge for stunning water views. The tour includes private guide and driver, making it highly customizable. Reviewers appreciate the personalized approach and less crowded sites.

Bottom Line: Designed for travelers who want a comprehensive, private experience of both the Great Wall and scenic gorges.

15. Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Badaling Unrestored Great Wall Private Day Tour

This private day tour is a standout with its visit to both the Longqingxia Gorge and the unrestored Badaling Great Wall. The less-crowded part of Badaling offers authentic views, while the boat ride at Longqing Gorge provides a tranquil escape. The tour includes lunch, entrance fees, and private guide. Guests mention the beautiful scenery and personalized service.

Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a balance of history and natural scenery, with intimate access to less touristy sites.

How to Choose the Best Boat Tour or Cruise in Beijing

When selecting the ideal water-based experience in Beijing, consider your priorities: Do you want historic sites combined with a boat ride, or are you after natural scenery and outdoor adventure? Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the Water Great Wall Bus Tour with Boat Ride, while those seeking a luxurious evening could opt for the Din Tai Fung Dinner and VIP River Cruise. If you’re pressed for time, the private tours like the Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Guyaju Cave Dwellings offer a personalized, all-in-one day.

For travelers interested in active outdoor pursuits, the Water Great Wall Odyssey provides hiking, camping, and rafting options. Always book early, especially during peak seasons, and choose a tour that matches your fitness level, interest in history, and preferred pace.

Final Thoughts

Beijing offers an impressive array of boat and cruise experiences that extend beyond city sightseeing. Whether you want a relaxing scenic cruise, an adventurous water hike, or a luxurious dinner cruise, there’s something for every taste. For history lovers, private tours that combine water rides with visits to the Ming Tombs or the Great Wall are particularly rewarding. Meanwhile, travelers craving quiet natural beauty will find the Water Great Wall and Longqing Gorge options captivating.

Don’t forget to book early—these tours fill up fast, especially in spring and fall. With so many choices, you’re sure to find a water adventure that enriches your Beijing visit and offers a fresh perspective on this incredible city.