Huangpu River Crystal Princess Cruise Ticket with dinner

Taking a cruise along the Huangpu River is often listed as a must-do in Shanghai, and this Crystal Princess cruise with dinner offers a way to see the city’s iconic skyline illuminated at night. While it might not be the most luxurious boat on the river, it combines scenic views, a tasty buffet, and the chance to enjoy some of Shanghai’s most famous landmarks in an atmospheric setting. Our review looks at what you can expect, the benefits, and the potential downsides, helping you decide if this experience is right for you.

What we love about this tour? First, the stunning night views of the city’s skyline—including the Oriental Pearl Tower and Jin Mao Tower—are truly breathtaking. Second, the buffet dinner offers good value, especially when paired with the scenery. Third, the cruise’s easy booking and convenient location make it accessible, especially if you want a relaxed, scenic evening in Shanghai. However, one thing to keep in mind is that this tour is roughly four hours, so it’s best suited for those who want a relaxing, picturesque evening rather than a packed sightseeing agenda.

This experience is ideal for travelers who enjoy beautiful cityscapes, good food, and a leisurely pace. If you’re looking for a memorable way to cap a day in Shanghai or want to see the city’s twinkling lights from the water, this cruise can be a solid choice. But if you’re after a more exclusive or faster-paced tour, you might want to explore other options.

Good To Know

• Stunning skyline views of Shanghai’s most iconic buildings illuminated at night.
• Affordable price point when considering the combination of dinner and a scenic cruise.
• Good value buffet dinner, with options to purchase VIP seating for added comfort.
• Central location at Shiliupu No.3 Cruise Terminal makes it easy to access.
• Two-hour river cruise offers ample time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.
• Authentic experience with the chance to see both historic and modern architecture from the water.

👉 See our pick of the 25 Best Guided Tours In Shanghai

The Experience: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Booking and Ticket Collection

The tour begins with booking your tickets in advance—most travelers do so around 19 days ahead, which is recommended if you want a spot. The ticket redemption happens at the Shiliupu No.3 Cruise Terminal between 17:00 and 18:00, with the cruise starting at 19:00. The process is straightforward thanks to helpful staff who assist with ticket pickup and directions. We’ve heard from travelers that the staff is friendly and efficient, making the check-in smooth.

The Buffet Dinner: A Tasty Preview

While waiting for the cruise to commence, guests can enjoy a buffet dinner from 17:30 to 19:30. The buffet includes a variety of dishes, which, based on reviews, are quite satisfying given the price. Some travelers mention the food as “delicious,” ideal for a leisurely meal with views of the river. Others note the option to upgrade to VIP seating for RMB 100—this provides better chairs, an ice cream treat, and some cookies to buy beer, making the experience more comfortable.

The Cruise: Navigating the Huangpu River

The boat departs promptly at 19:00, and the two-hour cruise offers an immersive experience of Shanghai’s skyline at night. During the journey, you’ll get prime views of landmarks like the Oriental Pearl Tower, the Shanghai World Financial Center, the Jin Mao Tower, and the Shanghai International Convention Center. The illuminated buildings cast an enchanting glow over the water, making it an excellent photo opportunity.

Highlights Along the Way

The cruise’s itinerary includes several memorable sights:

• Oriental Pearl Tower: Its vibrant light display is often described as “magnificent,” and many reviews mention the drone show held on special occasions, adding an extra visual spectacle.
• Jin Mao Tower & Shanghai World Financial Center: These skyscrapers look especially stunning when lit up, and the cruise provides a unique vantage point.
• The Bund: The historic waterfront architecture is a must-see, and from the water, it appears even more impressive, with the buildings glowing against the night sky.

Travelers have noted that the views are breathtaking, especially when the city’s skyline is fully lit up. One reviewer specifically loved the option to spend RMB 100 for VIP seating on the top deck, which included better seats, ice cream, and the opportunity to buy beer—perfect for those wanting a bit of luxury without breaking the bank.

The Return and End of the Tour

The cruise concludes back at the pier around 21:00. Most travelers find the experience both relaxing and visually stimulating, with many saying it’s the perfect way to cap a day of sightseeing.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler highlighted the “surprising drone show” held during the cruise, which was part of the 94th-year anniversary of a significant historical event. They appreciated the VIP section with its comfortable seating and treats, mentioning it was “well worth” the extra RMB 100.

Another reviewer described the evening cruise as an “amazing experience,” emphasizing the stunning city skyline and the delicious dinner as highlights. They appreciated the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to enjoy the scenery with a good meal, making it a perfect evening in Shanghai.

Practical Considerations

While many love the overall experience, some note that the cruise duration might be a bit short for those wanting extensive time on the water. The price of $92 per person is reasonable for what’s included—dinner, scenic cruise, and views—but doesn’t include extras like tips or VIP upgrades unless you choose them. Also, the ticketing process is straightforward but requires advance planning, especially during peak seasons.

The Value of This Cruise Experience

This cruise isn’t about exclusivity or luxury—it’s about enjoying fantastic views, good food, and a relaxing evening. For $92, most travelers get a solid combination of sightseeing, entertainment (like the drone show), and a hearty buffet. The fact that the cruise’s highlights include free access to the sightseeing spots from the water, like the Oriental Pearl Tower and The Bund, makes it a compelling choice for many.

It’s particularly well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see Shanghai’s skyline in a memorable way or those who want a low-stress, scenic dinner outing. The central location and easy booking make it accessible for most travelers, especially those staying near the city center.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you want a relaxing, scenic overview of Shanghai at night, this cruise ticks all the boxes. It’s great for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a leisurely way to enjoy the city’s illuminated architecture. Food lovers will appreciate the buffet’s value, while architecture buffs will love the close-up views of iconic skyscrapers.

However, if your priority is luxury or exclusivity, or if you prefer a more extensive or private tour, you might want to explore other options. It’s also worth noting that this tour is approximately four hours long, so if you’re tight on time or prefer a faster sightseeing experience, this may not be ideal.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, tasty food, and cultural spectacle at a reasonable price. The combination of illuminated landmarks, especially the Oriental Pearl Tower and the Bund’s historic architecture, creates a view that stays with you long after your trip.

The inclusion of dinner and the opportunity to upgrade to VIP seating enhances the value, making it more than just a boat ride. Plus, the ease of booking and the central pier location help make this experience accessible and convenient.

This tour is best suited for those who want a laid-back, picturesque evening and don’t mind a moderate price point. It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a classic Shanghai night view or anyone seeking a memorable dinner cruise without the hefty price tag.

FAQs

What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket price covers your cruise ticket, a buffet dinner, and admission to the cruise. The ticket redemption is at Shiliupu No.3 Cruise Terminal, and the cruise departs in the early evening.

Can I upgrade to VIP seating?
Yes, for RMB 100, you can buy VIP seats on the top deck, which offers better seating, ice cream, and the chance to buy beer. Many reviewers found this upgrade worthwhile for added comfort.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs for approximately 2 hours, starting at 19:00 and ending around 21:00, offering plenty of time to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

What landmarks will I see?
Expect to see the Oriental Pearl Tower, Jin Mao Tower, Shanghai World Financial Center, and the historic Bund. The skyline is especially stunning at night with lights illuminating each structure.

Is dinner included?
Yes, a buffet dinner is part of the experience. Reviewers mention that the food is quite tasty and satisfying given the price.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The meeting point is at Shiliupu No.3 Cruise Terminal at 99 Wai Ma Lu. Most travelers find it accessible near public transportation, and staff is available to assist with directions.

Is this experience suitable for families?
Absolutely. The cruise’s relaxed atmosphere and scenic views make it a good choice for family outings, especially for those interested in architecture and city nightscapes.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for the evening; layers are recommended since it can get chilly on the water, especially after sunset.

Final Word

For those seeking a beautiful, leisurely way to see Shanghai’s night skyline, the Huangpu River Crystal Princess Cruise with dinner offers a solid, enjoyable experience. It balances scenic views, good food, and a relaxed pace, making it a worthwhile addition to your Shanghai itinerary. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a memorable evening, this cruise can be a highlight of your trip.