In short
- 3-star boats carry around 120 passengers with basic seats and a boxed lunch.
- 4-star boats carry 75 to 80 passengers, offering wider seats and a buffet.
- Official fares start around 215 RMB for 3-star and 360 RMB for 4-star.
In this article
When booking a Li River cruise, you will quickly notice two main options. You can choose standard 3-star boats or luxury 4-star boats. Both cover the exact same 83-kilometer (52-mile) scenic route from Guilin to Yangshuo. Your choice depends on how much space you want and what kind of meal you prefer during the 4 to 4.5-hour journey.
How does seating compare on 3 star vs 4 star Li River cruises?
4-star boats provide noticeably wider seats and more legroom.
On a 3-star boat, seating is standard. The cabin can feel cramped when the boat is fully booked. These vessels have basic amenities. 4-star and 4.5-star luxury boats feature upgraded interiors and wider seats. They generally have larger windows for better viewing from inside the cabin.
How many people are on each boat?
3-star boats hold around 120 passengers, while 4-star boats carry 75 to 80 passengers.
Because 4-star boats carry fewer people, the boarding process is often faster. The viewing decks are also less crowded. 3-star boats are the primary choice for large domestic tour groups. This means the main cabin and upper decks get busy quickly.
What is the difference between boxed lunch and buffet catering?
3-star cruises provide a simple boxed lunch, whereas 4-star cruises include a hot buffet.
If you book a 3-star ticket, expect a very basic pre-packaged meal. Many travelers bring their own personal snacks to supplement this. On a 4-star boat, the crew serves a hot buffet lunch with multiple local dishes. This makes for a much better dining experience on the river.
Do both boats leave from the same pier in Guilin?
No, they depart from two different piers located about 30 kilometers from downtown Guilin.
Standard 3-star boats depart from Mopanshan Pier. Luxury 4-star and 4.5-star boats leave from the nearby Zhujiang Pier. When arranging your morning taxi or transfer, you must specify the correct pier based on your ticket type.
How much more does a 4-star cruise cost?
A 4-star ticket costs roughly 145 RMB more than a 3-star ticket.
Official published adult fares start around 215 RMB for the 3-star option. The 4-star cruise starts around 360 RMB. Ticket prices can fluctuate depending on the platform and travel season. Packaged tours that include transfers will cost more.
| Feature | 3-Star Cruise | 4-Star Cruise |
|---|---|---|
| Capacity | ~120 passengers | 75 to 80 passengers |
| Lunch | Basic boxed lunch | Buffet lunch |
| Departure Pier | Mopanshan Pier | Zhujiang Pier |
| Official Base Fare | ~215 RMB | ~360 RMB |
Are viewing decks different between the two boats?
Both boat tiers have top open-air decks, but 4-star decks offer more space per person.
Since 4-star boats carry fewer passengers, it is easier to secure a good spot for photos. Both boats pass the exact same sights, including Yellow Cloth Shoal. You will get the same natural views regardless of which ticket you buy.
Questions travellers ask
Can I bring luggage on a 3-star boat?
Large luggage may be restricted on some 3-star boats. Check with your operator beforehand. You can also use a luggage forwarding service from Guilin to Yangshuo.
Do I need a passport for both boat types?
Yes. A valid physical passport is mandatory for all foreign travelers. You need it to book tickets and pass security checks for any cruise.
How long does the cruise take?
Both 3-star and 4-star boats take roughly 4 to 4.5 hours to travel the 83 kilometers to Yangshuo. The exact time depends on water levels and boat speed.
