The Huangpu River Cruise (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is The Huangpu River Cruise?
What makes it 78% Kids-Friendly: Kids under 1.2 m ride free, child fare half price, child-size life jackets provided, vivid light show holds attention, but tight seating and crowd surges mean parents must supervise closely throughout.
Positives:
- Child-Friendly Amenities: Children under 1.2 m ride free and life jackets sized for kids are provided at no extra cost.
- Easy Boarding: Main piers have ramps for strollers and convenient restrooms before boarding.
Challenges:
- Limited Onboard Facilities: No nursery or changing tables on the boat; use pier restrooms before departure.
- Crowded Evenings: Peak dinner cruises can be busy; later sailings have fewer crowds but dimmer lighting.
What is The Huangpu River Cruise?
- A passenger river cruise service operating along Shanghai’s Huangpu River, linking the historic Bund with the modern Lujiazui skyline
- A fleet of purpose-built sightseeing vessels offering scheduled day and night sailings beneath the city’s historic bridges
- A waterborne showcase of Shanghai’s architectural evolution, from colonial-era waterfront buildings to contemporary skyscrapers
What is so special about The Huangpu River Cruise for with kids?
- See both historic Bund and modern Pudong skyline from a safe family-friendly boat.
- Kids under 1.2 m ride free; life jackets and stroller access included.
- Daytime and early-evening departures offer varied light shows for all ages.
- Add a cheap local ferry ride for extra fun and panoramic city views.
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 50-minute cruise plus waiting time and short breaks fit into 2-3 hours without rushing families.
Kids-Friendly Activities in The Huangpu River Cruise
Daytime Sightseeing Cruise:
Board a 50-minute cruise from Shiliupu Pier to see the Bund’s historic buildings and Pudong’s skyline in daylight.
Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to choose seats on the open deck. Bring sun hats and water for kids.
Early-Evening Light Show Cruise:
Sail around 6 PM to watch the transition from sunset to city lights along both riverbanks.
Tip: Book a slot just before 6 PM. Kids love the changing colors—carry a small camera or phone for photos.
Fun Local Ferry Crossing:
Add a 10-minute ferry ride at Xiepu Road or Qinhuangdao Road for extra adventure and skyline views.
Tip: Use a Shanghai transit card to pay ¥2 per person. Let kids stand safely on deck rails for better views.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to The Huangpu River Cruise
- Buy Tickets Online: Reserve seats in advance on official websites or apps to skip long lines at ticket booths.
- Choose Early Slots: Select cruises just before evening to avoid midday heat and nighttime rush.
Reviews of The Huangpu River Cruise
Eduardo Villegas
Nice 1-hour cruise with great Shanghai skyline views, especially at night. Good price and on time, but the meeting point is a bit tricky to find. Worth it for the lights and atmosphere!. You can buy drinks but I didn’t do this time
Pasindu Ranasinghe
It was a nice one-hour cruise ride where we could see Shanghai skyscrapers. I would recommend buying tickets in advance, but it can depend on the day.
Astrow Ty
This was $30/pax in our group tour. It was enjoyable and fascinating. First floor has indoor viewing area with tables and chairs facing large windows. You can buy snacks and beverages here. Second level has private rooms I think, toilets, and limited outdoor view deck. Third floor was the roofdeck- everyone was here as it offers 360 degree view of the Oriental Pearl Tower side and the Bund. Such m...
Teck Chong Law
I followed some social media recommendations and took this RMB 2 one way cruise from the west bank of Huangpu River to the east bank. It was a short few minutes trip but the views were nice and the fare was so attractive. I believe the evening views will be stunning. I also took the cruise back from the east bank to the west bank. Come and enjoy this very economical cruise.
Shobhan Adhikari
One of the tourist attractions in Shanghai. It is a good event, offers a good ride along the river with sightseeing of major attractions in Shanghai. The buffet was nice with a number of different dishes. Had to buy beer though, not complementary. If you’re in Shanghai, do plan for the cruise, it is relaxing
When is the best time to visit The Huangpu River Cruise (Shanghai, China)?
Spring and autumn offer mild weather—pack a light jacket for cool evenings. Summers can be hot, so choose early cruises.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Adult cruise tickets (2 x ¥120) | CNY 240 |
| Child cruise tickets (2 x ¥60) | CNY 120 |
| Local ferry rides (4 x ¥2) | CNY 8 |
| Total Estimated | CNY 368 |
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 The Huangpu River Cruise
Address: 153 or 291Zhongshan Dong Er Lu (Zhongshan East2nd Rd), 外滩黄浦区 China, 200120
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