West Lake Pleasure Boat (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is West Lake Pleasure Boat?
What makes it 80% Kids-Friendly: Kids ride free under 1.2 m and half fare up to 1.5 m; benches, life jackets and island stop give safe space to run; parents must watch on open decks, no play zone or child toilets on board.
Positives:
- Child-sized Life Jackets: Free life jackets in small sizes keep kids secure on any boat.
- Discounted Child Fares: Children under 1.2 m ride free; 1.2–1.5 m pay half on shared boats.
Challenges:
- No Onboard Restrooms: Use pier restrooms before boarding; boats have no toilets.
- Deposit for Electric Boat: You must leave a 300 CNY refundable deposit for self-drive rentals.
What is West Lake Pleasure Boat?
- A fleet of traditional painted pleasure boats, dragon-head vessels, electric self-guided crafts and water buses operating on Hangzhou’s West Lake
- Cruise routes and hop-on/hop-off services linking key piers including Yigongyuan (One Park), Ergongyuan (Two Park), Broken Bridge and Three Pools Mirroring the Moon
- Guided and self-guided boating services providing live commentary and access to lakeside landmarks such as moon pools, lotus ponds and plum blossom groves
What is so special about West Lake Pleasure Boat for with kids?
- Hop-on hop-off water bus with live commentary keeps kids engaged
- Shared leisure boats include safe play areas on the islet
- Self-drive electric boats let older kids steer under supervision
- Free life jackets and child discounts save money and boost safety
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a hop-on hop-off cruise, a visit to the islet and a hands-on electric boat ride without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in West Lake Pleasure Boat
Water Bus Hop-on Hop-off:
Board at any pier for a 90-minute loop with live English commentary.
Tip: Kids under 1.2 m ride free, 1.2–1.5 m pay half; choose morning slots to avoid crowds.
Leisure Boat to Three Pools Islet:
Shared boat ride includes entry to the Three Pools Mirroring the Moon islet.
Tip: Take bench seats so kids can move safely and explore the islet lawn.
Self-drive Electric Boat:
Rent a four-seat electric boat for hands-on steering around hidden coves.
Tip: Bring life jackets and supervise children aged 5+; book early on weekends.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to West Lake Pleasure Boat
- Go Early: Arrive before 9 AM to beat queues at popular piers.
- Buy Combined Tickets: Purchase water bus and leisure boat tickets together for faster boarding.
- Pack Snacks: Bring water and light snacks to keep kids happy between rides.
Reviews of West Lake Pleasure Boat
Travel Tan
We did an afternoon stroll around West Lake and enjoyed the beauty of the park. We did a boat ride too. The park was packed with locals and tourists because of the holiday. Some rode the shuttle to lessen the amount of walking. Some were having photo sessions and some having a family picnic. We bought ice cream and sat for a while to watch the scene before us. Then we were off to see the Pagoda.
Harran Shi
Great ride but I wish there is less announcements. I get seasick easily and the boat ride was not a very enjoyable experience for me
Mark Choi
Amazing free venture of Hong Zhou. Beautiful lake side view with a cheap 30 minute boat ride around the lake. Fantastic
You Hwa Tan
nice scenery especially the show at night.
Jazzy Jae
A must see for yourself pictures do no justice
When is the best time to visit West Lake Pleasure Boat (Hangzhou, China)?
March–April has plum blossoms along the shore; June–July shows lotus blooms; mid-autumn full moon reflects in the moon pools; pack sunscreen in summer and a windbreaker in spring.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Water Bus Hop-on Hop-off tickets (2 adults + 1 half-fare child) | CNY 175 |
| Snacks at pier kiosks | CNY 50 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 225 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of West Lake Pleasure Boat
Address: 64HV+HXJ, Nan Shan Lu, Xi Hu Qu, Hang Zhou Shi, Zhe Jiang Sheng, China, 310002
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