Shanghai Huangpu River Evening Cruise Ticket with Dinner

If you’re visiting Shanghai and want to see the city’s phenomenal skyline lit up at night, the Huangpu River evening cruise is often touted as a highlight. Although we haven’t personally taken this cruise, we’ve gathered plenty of insights and traveler experiences to give you a well-rounded picture. Think glowing skyscrapers, historic architecture, and a pleasant onboard buffet, all wrapped into a comfortable 3.5-hour evening adventure.

What makes this experience appealing? First, the stunning night views of Shanghai’s iconic buildings, like the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Shanghai World Financial Center, are hard to beat. Second, the dragon-themed cruise adds a fun, thematic flair, especially capturing the attention of families and first-time visitors. Third, the buffet dinner onboard offers a convenient and reasonably priced way to enjoy local and international dishes while you soak in the skyline.

However, a notable consideration is that this cruise is primarily about night-time sightseeing—meaning no disembarkation during the trip, and if you’re after a culinary experience or closer-up architectural views, you might need additional activities. Also, those seeking a quieter or more intimate experience should consider the likely crowd and bustling atmosphere during peak times.

This cruise suits travelers who want a classic, visually impressive way to enjoy Shanghai from the water, especially if you appreciate a good buffet and lively ambiance. It’s ideal for first-timers, families, or anyone wanting a straightforward, scenic evening with a dash of entertainment.

Key Points

• Iconic Views: Offers unbeatable night views of Shanghai’s skyline and historic architecture.
• Thematic Cruise: Dragon-themed boat adds a fun element, especially for families.
• Convenient Dining: All-you-can-eat buffet from 17:30 to 19:30 makes dining easy and fuss-free.
• No Disembarkation: The cruise is purely scenic; no stops or walking tours during the trip.
• Timing and Flexibility: Boarding from 17:00, cruise departs at 19:00, returns at 21:00; full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Ideal for First-Time Visitors: Perfect for those wanting a broad, impressive view of the city’s nightscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail: What to Expect

The Meeting Point

Your adventure begins at the Shiliupu No.3 Cruise Terminal in Huangpu District. The coordinates (31.2257, 121.5012) make it straightforward to find, whether you’re arriving by metro, taxi, or walking from nearby attractions. The terminal is well-equipped, and the process of ticket redemption from 17:00 to 18:00 is smooth—most reviews note that staff are friendly and efficient.

Boarding and Atmosphere

Once onboard, you’ll notice the dragon-themed décor, setting a lively and festive tone. The boat isn’t a small vessel; it comfortably accommodates groups and families, giving a vibrant but not overcrowded vibe. The crew and guides are generally praised for their professionalism and knowledge, providing tidbits about the skyline and buildings as you cruise.

The Scenic Route: What You’ll See

The cruise is designed solely for nighttime sightseeing—no disembarking or walking involved. Expect to see the illuminated historic architecture of The Bund, including colonial-era buildings that glow with colorful lighting. As the boat glides past, you’ll get a front-row view of the modern skyscrapers in Lujiazui, such as the Jin Mao Tower and the Shanghai Tower, with their lights dancing across the water.

This combination of old and new makes for a striking visual contrast that captures Shanghai’s unique character. The Oriental Pearl Tower is a particular highlight, with its distinctive spheres and vibrant lighting creating perfect photo opportunities. Many reviews mention the stunning views as the highlight, noting that the skyline looks especially impressive at night.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Buffet Experience

The onboard buffet runs from 17:30 to 19:30, so it’s best to arrive early to maximize your dining time. The buffet is described as convenient and satisfying, with a variety of dishes, including some local favorites and international options. While some comments suggest the quality is good for the price, those with very particular tastes might find it a bit standard. Nonetheless, it’s a practical choice that allows you to enjoy a meal without leaving the boat or missing the views.

The Cruise Itself

The departure at 19:00 takes you on a scenic 2-hour journey along the Huangpu River. The boat gently glides past the brightly lit skyline, providing ample opportunities for photos and sightseeing. The cruise returns around 21:00, giving you plenty of time afterward to explore more of Shanghai.

Tips from Reviewers

• To get the best buffet experience, board promptly from 17:00.
• For those seeking quieter moments, consider that the cruise can get lively, especially during peak season.
• The guides are appreciated for their knowledge and friendly manner, often providing interesting insights about the landmarks.
• Some reviews mention that the views are even more spectacular from the upper decks, so ask about access when boarding.

What Sets This Experience Apart?

Beyond the obvious scenic beauty, this cruise offers a sense of authentic urban vibrancy. Travelers mention the colorful lighting of the buildings as especially photogenic at night, with many capturing stunning images from the boat. The thematic dragon décor adds a touch of fun and makes it a memorable outing, particularly for families or groups celebrating special occasions.

The convenience of the buffet and the timed boarding process are also notable features. Guests appreciate that the meal is included, saving time and hassle, especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

Price and Value

While not specified explicitly, the cruise’s all-inclusive nature—scenic views plus dinner—makes it a good value, especially considering the prime vantage points and the convenience. For around 3.5 hours, you essentially get a guided tour of Shanghai’s most iconic sights with a tasty meal in a lively setting. It’s a cost-effective way to see the city’s nightscape without the expense of private tours or multiple tickets.

If you’re on a budget but want a memorable experience, this cruise offers a good mix of sights, tastes, and atmosphere. However, if your culinary standards are very high or you seek a more intimate or quiet experience, you might prefer other options or private arrangements.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to capture the essence of Shanghai at night, with plenty of opportunities for photos, sightseeing, and enjoying a lively atmosphere. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to see the skyline and enjoy a hassle-free dinner on the water.

Families will appreciate the fun theme and generous buffet, while those interested in modern architecture and cityscapes will find this a memorable way to experience Shanghai’s iconic skyline. It’s also a solid choice if you want a social, energetic environment rather than a quiet, contemplative cruise.

Travelers seeking a more intimate or luxury experience might need to look elsewhere, but for most, this offers great value and a comprehensive view of Shanghai’s dazzling nightscape.

FAQ

Is there any disembarkation during the cruise?
No, the cruise is solely for sightseeing on the water, with no stops or walking tours planned during the trip.

What time should I arrive for boarding?
You should plan to redeem your ticket between 17:00 and 18:00 to ensure you can enjoy the buffet from 17:30 to 19:30 and board comfortably.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, from 19:00 to 21:00, providing ample time for sightseeing and photos.

Can I take pets on the cruise?
Pets are not allowed onboard, so plan accordingly.

Is the buffet dinner included in the ticket price?
Yes, the buffet is part of the experience, served onboard from 17:30 to 19:30.

What should I do if I need to cancel?
You can cancel your booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

To sum it up, the Shanghai Huangpu River Evening Cruise with Dinner offers a lively, scenic, and convenient way to experience the city’s spectacular night skyline. It blends the charm of illuminated architecture with the comfort of onboard dining, making it a popular choice for those looking to capture memorable moments and enjoy a relaxed evening in Shanghai. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or simply want a fun night out, this cruise provides a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that highlights the city’s vibrant personality.

You can check availability for your dates here: