Beijing’s boat tours offer surprising scenic escapes from the urban bustle. The standout Longqingxia Gorge Cruise combines dramatic cliffs, temple visits, and serene water views in a well-organized full-day excursion. We love the Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling for its smart pairing of waterways with the historic Ming Tombs – the cable car ride adds an extra thrill. For classic Beijing sights, the Royal Combo Tour efficiently connects water features at the Summer Palace with city highlights. Let’s look at our favorite Beijing boat tours and what makes each special.
Key Points
- Longqingxia Gorge Cruise offers a full-day private tour featuring a scenic boat cruise through the Longqing Gorge with colorful temples and karst formations.
- The Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling provides an immersive exploration of the Longqing Gorge and Ming Tombs, including a boat ride and Flying Dragon escalator experience.
- The Longqing Gorge Experiences private day tour includes a boat ride, cable car ascent to a Taoist temple, and additional water activities amidst the scenic limestone cliffs.
- The Royal Combo Tour offers a self-guided experience combining a 28-minute sightseeing cruise and a 3.5-hour visit to the Summer Palace in Beijing.
- The 2-Day Group Tour from Tianjin Cruise Port and the Mini Group Beijing Excursion from Tianjin provide comprehensive tours of Beijing’s iconic landmarks, including the Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, and Forbidden City.
Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Guyaju Cave Dwellings Private Day Tour
The Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Guyaju Cave Dwellings Private Day Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Beijing’s natural wonders.
This full-day private trip, recommended by 97% of travelers, showcases the area’s scenic boat cruises and ancient cave dwellings.
Led by an English-speaking guide, the tour includes a river cruise through the Longqing Gorge, revealing colorful temples and stunning karst formations.
Guests will also explore the Guyaju Cave Dwellings, ancient homes carved into rock faces.
With a convenient lunch, round-trip hotel transfers, and all entrance fees covered, this experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides, scenic landscapes, and suitability for families.
Priced at $216 per person, this tour is a must-do for those visiting Beijing.
Read our full review: Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Guyaju Cave Dwellings Private Day Tour Review
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Beijing: Royal Combo ( Royal Cruise+Summer Palace) DIY Tour
Offering a regal experience, the Beijing: Royal Combo (Royal Cruise + Summer Palace) DIY Tour provides visitors an opportunity to enjoy the grandeur of Beijing’s imperial past.
Priced from $57.22 per person, this self-guided tour promises a day of exploration, with a 28-minute sightseeing cruise and 3.5 hours at the iconic Summer Palace.
Guests can marvel at the Dehe Garden, Tower of Buddhist Incense, Suzhou Street, and Summer Palace Museum, all while enjoying an English textual and visual guide.
The tour’s flexible booking and free cancellation policies make it an attractive option for travelers seeking to discover Beijing’s royal heritage at their own pace.
Read our full review: Beijing: Royal Combo ( Royal Cruise+Summer Palace) DIY Tour Review
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Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling at the Ming Tombs With Lunch and Boat Ride
For those seeking an immersive exploration of Beijing’s natural and historical wonders, the Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling at the Ming Tombs With Lunch and Boat Ride provides an unforgettable experience.
This highly-rated private tour includes visits to the iconic Ming Tombs, where visitors can explore the Dingling tomb and its impressive stone thrones and statues.
Afterward, the tour takes guests to the breathtaking Longqing Gorge, where they’ll ride the Flying Dragon escalator and enjoy a serene boat cruise along the aquamarine river.
With a knowledgeable guide, private transportation, and convenient hotel pickup, this comprehensive tour offers a personalized and enriching way to discover Beijing’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge and Dingling at the Ming Tombs With Lunch and Boat Ride Review
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Private Transfer: Beijing City Hotel to Tianjin Cruise Port
This private transfer service whisks travelers from their Beijing hotel to the Tianjin Xingang International cruise port, a convenient 2-hour journey.
Priced from $108.00 per person, this service offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Depending on group size, travelers will ride in a 5-seat car, 7-seat van, 15-seat van, 22-seat minibus, or 30-seat bus – all non-smoking, comfortable, and air-conditioned.
Drivers may speak Chinese, but a phone translator is available if needed. English-speaking drivers are also an option.
The service includes hotel pick-up, Tianjin Cruise Port drop-off, complimentary water, and gratuities.
Reviews praise the driver’s politeness, punctuality, and the clean, comfortable vehicles.
Read our full review: Private Transfer: Beijing City Hotel to Tianjin Cruise Port Review
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11-Day Small-Group China Tour: Beijing, Xian, Yangtze Cruise and Shanghai
Travelers seeking a comprehensive China experience can embark on an 11-day small-group tour that showcases the nation’s iconic destinations, including Beijing, Xi’an, the Yangtze River, and Shanghai.
Priced from $2,259 per person, the tour features a maximum of 18 travelers, professional English-speaking guides, and a mix of included meals and transportation.
Highlights include visits to the Terra Cotta Warriors, a Yangtze River cruise, and a side canal trip.
Travelers will also enjoy local dining experiences and have the opportunity to avoid the heat of summer travel.
With an impressive 100% recommendation rate, this small-group tour offers an exceptional value and quality of service.
Read our full review: 11-Day Small-Group China Tour: Beijing, Xian, Yangtze Cruise and Shanghai Review
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17 Day Private Tour: Multi Faceted China With Yangtse-Cruise
Spanning 17 days, this private tour offers a multifaceted exploration of China, culminating in a 3-night cruise along the scenic Yangtze River.
For $4,967.08 per person, travelers can visit major cities and attractions, including the Temple of Heaven, Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Terracotta Warriors.
The tour includes luxury 5-star accommodations, high-speed train travel, and guided experiences in multiple languages.
While visa fees and international flights are excluded, the package provides a comprehensive, visa-free journey through China’s cultural highlights.
This tour caters to adults, with restrictions for young children, pregnant women, and older individuals.
Read our full review: 17 Day Private Tour: Multi Faceted China With Yangtse-Cruise Review
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14-Day Small-Group China Tour: Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Yangtze Cruise, Shanghai
The 14-Day Small-Group China Tour offers travelers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s cultural highlights. Spanning five destinations, including Beijing, Xian, Guilin, the Yangtze Cruise, and Shanghai, the tour provides a well-rounded experience.
The package includes hotel and cruise ship accommodations, domestic flights and trains, select meals, and professional English-speaking guides. With a maximum of 18 travelers, the small-group size ensures a more intimate and personalized experience.
Feedback from previous participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with a 100% recommendation rate. While the tour excludes international airfare and China visa fees, the all-inclusive nature and competitive pricing make it an attractive option for those seeking a seamless and enriching journey through China.
Read our full review: 14-Day Small-Group China Tour: Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Yangtze Cruise, Shanghai Review
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Beijing Private Tour to Badaling Great Wall and Longqing Gorge With Boat Ride
Exploring the grandeur of the Badaling Great Wall and the serene beauty of Longqing Gorge, this private tour offers a captivating day-long adventure.
Travelers will enjoy hassle-free round-trip transport, cable car access to the iconic Badaling section, and a scenic boat ride through Longqing Gorge’s stunning landscapes.
With a professional guide, a vegetarian lunch option, and all entrance fees included, the tour provides a well-rounded experience.
Highly recommended by past visitors, the tour’s knowledgeable guides, like Cathy Zhang and Edward, are praised for their expertise and friendliness.
Priced at $208 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and isn’t wheelchair accessible.
Read our full review: Beijing Private Tour to Badaling Great Wall and Longqing Gorge With Boat Ride Review
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China Golden Triangle Cities & Yangtze River Cruise
This captivating 14-day small-group tour takes travelers on a comprehensive exploration of China’s iconic “Golden Triangle” cities – Beijing, Xian, and Shanghai – while also including a serene 3-night Yangtze River cruise with a stop at the awe-inspiring Three Gorges Dam.
Highlights include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Mutianyu Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, and Yu Gardens.
The tour includes high-speed train travel, economy-class airfare, and 11 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 2 dinners.
With professional guides, air-conditioned vehicles, and all entrance fees covered, this all-inclusive package offers an exceptional value for travelers seeking to enjoy China’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: China Golden Triangle Cities & Yangtze River Cruise Review
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15-DAY Classic China Tour With Yangtze Cruise
Set out on a comprehensive 15-day journey through China’s iconic destinations with this Classic China Tour and Yangtze Cruise.
Starting in Beijing, you’ll visit major sites like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Tiananmen Square.
Fly to Xian, Guilin, and Chongqing, then board a Yangtze River cruise. Enjoy on-board amenities and shore excursions as you sail to Yichang.
Continue to Suzhou and Shanghai, experiencing high-speed train travel.
This all-inclusive tour includes accommodation, transportation, meals, and a professional English-speaking guide.
With 6 five-star reviews, it’s a well-regarded option for exploring the best of China in depth.
Read our full review: 15-DAY Classic China Tour With Yangtze Cruise Review
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Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge With Boat Ride and Cable Car From Beijing
Longqing Gorge, a scenic oasis nestled within Beijing’s outskirts, beckons visitors to escape the city’s hustle and enjoy its serene natural beauty.
This private day tour offers a comprehensive experience, including a boat ride along the clear waters and a cable car ascent to a Taoist temple. With a 4.5-star rating from 7 reviews, the tour provides a seamless journey, covering entrance fees, lunch, and transportation.
Guests can enjoy additional water activities and admire the steep limestone cliffs that frame the gorge. Led by knowledgeable guides, this excursion allows travelers to experience the “Chinese Painting in Real Life,” as one reviewer described it.
Read our full review: Private Day Tour to Longqing Gorge With Boat Ride and Cable Car From Beijing Review
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16-DAY Private China Essence Tour With Yangtze River Cruise
A 16-day private China Essence tour with a Yangtze River cruise provides a comprehensive exploration of the country’s cultural highlights and natural wonders.
This highly-rated tour, with a 5.0 rating from 6 reviews, takes travelers to Beijing, Xian, Guilin, Chengdu, Chongqing, Yichang, and Shanghai.
The tour includes hotel and cruise ship accommodations, flights, high-speed train rides, meals, transportation, and a professional guide.
Travelers will experience the Great Wall, Terracotta Warriors, Pandas, and a relaxing Yangtze River cruise.
With a minimum of 2 people per booking and no wheelchair accessibility, this private tour offers a personalized, immersive experience of China’s essence.
Read our full review: 16-DAY Private China Essence Tour With Yangtze River Cruise Review
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2 Days Beijing Group Tour From Tianjin Cruise Port Without Shop Stops
This group tour from Tianjin Cruise Port to Beijing provides travelers with a focused, shop-free itinerary that highlights the city’s iconic landmarks.
Over two days, the tour includes visits to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, the Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City.
Amenities like breakfast, lunch, transportation, and English-speaking guides are included. The tour accommodates up to 30 travelers and has received consistently positive reviews, though some guests have noted issues with the hotel quality.
With free cancellation and accessible features, this tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience Beijing’s top attractions.
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2-Day Private Beijing Excursion With Great Wall From Tianjin Cruise Terminal
Travelers embarking on the 2-day private Beijing excursion from the Tianjin Cruise Terminal can anticipate an immersive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks.
Priced from $506.67 per person, the tour includes private transportation, experienced English-speaking guides, and visits to the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and old Beijing.
Travelers can look forward to traditional cuisine, including Peking duck, and round-way cable car rides at the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall.
With a 5-star rating from 6 reviews, the tour ensures a personalized experience, catering to dietary requirements and offering flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
Read our full review: 2-Day Private Beijing Excursion With Great Wall From Tianjin Cruise Terminal Review
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Private Transfer: Beijing Hotel to Tianjin Cruise Port
Offering a hassle-free transfer from Beijing’s hotels to the Tianjin Cruise Port, this private service provides travelers with a comfortable and efficient way to begin or end their cruise journey.
Travelers can avoid the stress of public transportation or long taxi lines, traveling in a private, climate-controlled vehicle with a professional driver who assists with luggage.
Pricing starts from $108.42 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The service is wheelchair accessible, and strollers or infant seats are available upon request.
Reviewers praise the service for its timely pickups and driver professionalism, though some drivers may not speak English fluently.
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Evening Food Private Tour With Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing
For those seeking a delightful evening of culinary exploration and craft beer indulgence in Beijing, the Evening Food Private Tour with Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat is an enticing option.
The 3-hour private tour allows guests to sample over 20 local street food tastings, explore traditional hutongs, and learn about the culinary history.
The tour includes a visit to the Slow Boat Brewery Taproom, where guests can enjoy one included glass of locally brewed craft beer.
With pickup at local hotels, round-trip private transport, and flexibility for dietary requirements, this tour offers a unique and personalized experience for all.
Read our full review: Evening Food Private Tour With Brewery Taproom Hopping at Slow Boat in Beijing Review
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Private Longqing Gorge & Guyaju Cave Day Tour W/ Cruise Ride
This comprehensive day tour whisks guests away to explore the stunning Longqing Gorge and the ancient Guyaju Cave dwellings.
Priced from $198 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees.
Visitors can look forward to a relaxing cruise ride, as well as lunch and dinner.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and infants under 3 can join for free.
Guests have the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with no penalty.
With a perfect 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, this tour offers an excellent opportunity to discover the natural and cultural wonders of Beijing’s Longqing Gorge and Guyaju Cave.
Read our full review: Private Longqing Gorge & Guyaju Cave Day Tour W/ Cruise Ride Review
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Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Badaling Unrestored Great Wall Private Day Tour
Venture into the captivating landscapes of Beijing’s Longqingxia Gorge and Badaling Unrestored Great Wall on this private day tour. Priced from $228 per person, this 5-star rated experience includes a private English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat cruise on the river, and a local lunch.
Explore the lesser-known, unrestored section of the Great Wall, where you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and prime photo opportunities. The tour also provides escalator access and transportation by private vehicle.
While a moderate fitness level is required, this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and infant seats are available.
Read our full review: Longqingxia Gorge Cruise and Badaling Unrestored Great Wall Private Day Tour Review
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Private Transfer Service: Between Tianjin Cruise Port and Beijing
Travelers can arrange for a private transfer service to convey them from the Tianjin Dongjiang port directly to their destination in Beijing. This service takes approximately three hours and is available 24/7, making it ideal for families.
The transfer includes all taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees, as well as port/hotel pickup and drop-off, transport by private vehicle with a driver, complimentary bottled water, and gratuities.
The service is wheelchair accessible, though hotel pickups may not be. Cruise passengers must provide their ship details during booking.
Prices start from $102 per person and can be reserved with a pay-later option, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Private Transfer Service: Between Tianjin Cruise Port and Beijing Review
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1-Way Private Transfer Service Between Tianjin Cruise Port and Beijing Hotels
For those arriving at the Tianjin Dongjiang port, a reliable one-way private transfer service is available to take them directly to their Beijing hotel.
This service includes a professional driver, an air-conditioned vehicle, and bottled water. The pickup time is based on the arrival schedule, and passengers can choose their preferred pickup point or request a specific one.
The transfer is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Priced from $301 per group of up to 2 travelers, this service offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay-later option.
Reviews highlight the efficiency, cleanliness, and timeliness of this transfer service, making it a recommended option for all travelers.
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A shared transfer service conveniently connects hotel guests in Beijing’s downtown area to the Tianjin Cruise Port.
Operated by China Pleasure Tour Co., Ltd., the service runs from February 24, 2023, to December 11, 2025, with a maximum capacity of 45 travelers.
The transfer includes an air-conditioned vehicle, parking fees, fuel, and all taxes and handling charges.
While gratuities and excess luggage fees aren’t included, the price per person of SEK 952.50 is competitively priced.
Pickup is arranged from selected hotels, with the exact time confirmed 1-2 days in advance.
Travelers are dropped off at Tianjin Gang, Binhai, China.
The service is a popular choice due to its punctuality and quality.
Read our full review: Hotel in Beijing Downtown to Tianjin Cruise Port Shared Transfer Review
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MuTianYu Great Wall Self-Guide Day Tour From TianJin Intl Cruise Home Port
Departing from the TianJin International Cruise Home Port, this self-guided tour takes visitors to explore the stunning MuTianYu section of the Great Wall of China.
The 4-hour round-trip journey includes private transportation, bottled water, WiFi, and entrance tickets to the MuTianYu Great Wall.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, except for those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
With a 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this private tour offers a hassle-free way to experience one of China’s most iconic landmarks.
Cancellation and rescheduling are free up to 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility for travelers.
Read our full review: MuTianYu Great Wall Self-Guide Day Tour From TianJin Intl Cruise Home Port Review
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11 Days 10 Nights Leisure China Tour With Yangtze River Cruise
Although this 11-day leisure tour of China culminates in a Yangtze River cruise, it encompasses much more, allowing travelers to explore the country’s iconic landmarks and cultural treasures.
Priced from $2,484 per person, the tour covers Beijing, Shanghai, and the Yangtze River, with all taxes, entrance fees, and meals included.
Travelers will enjoy a private tour, with hotel and airport transfers, as well as the convenience of a pre-booked itinerary.
With a 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover China’s rich history and natural beauty.
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Private Full-Day Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour With Dragon Boat Ride From Beijing
This private full-day tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of two of Beijing’s iconic attractions – the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall and the enchanting Summer Palace.
The tour includes round-trip cable car rides to the Great Wall and a traditional dragon boat ride on the Summer Palace’s Kunming Lake.
With a private air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide, travelers enjoy personalized attention and flexibility.
The tour’s starting time of 8 AM allows for a full day of sightseeing, and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior provides added convenience.
Feedback from a past traveler highlights the tour’s seamless logistics and the absence of unwanted stops, making it an ideal choice for first-time visitors with limited time in Beijing.
Read our full review: Private Full-Day Mutianyu Great Wall and Summer Palace Tour With Dragon Boat Ride From Beijing Review
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Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Excursion From Tianjin Cruise Port Without Hotel
Travelers on a cruise from Tianjin have the opportunity to embark on a 2-day Beijing excursion that showcases the city’s iconic attractions.
This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 8 participants, provides a personalized experience. Highlights include visits to the Great Wall at Mutianyu, Tiananmen Square, and the Forbidden City.
The tour includes all admission tickets, a lunch on the first day, and round-trip transfers from the Tianjin cruise port. Guests must provide passport information for Forbidden City tickets and are advised to wear comfortable shoes due to the moderate walking involved.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain health conditions. Priced from $488 per person, the tour receives a 5.0 rating based on positive reviews.
Read our full review: Mini Group: 2-Day Beijing Excursion From Tianjin Cruise Port Without Hotel Review
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Recap
Beijing offers a wide range of cruises and boat tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s natural wonders and historical sites. From the Longqingxia Gorge to the Summer Palace, these tours provide opportunities to see some of Beijing’s most impressive landmarks from the water. Whether you’re interested in a private day trip or a multi-day tour, there are plenty of options to choose from to make the most of your time in Beijing.