A'boat time! New cruise routes to loop around the Grand Canal

A host performs a traditional tea ceremony during the cruise. [Photo/wxrb.com]

The touring boats will also help give passengers an authentic experience of ancient China. Adorned in a classic style, the boats will also hold cultural performances including traditional tea ceremonies and Pingtan plays, a traditional style of performance that mixes storytelling and ballad singing.

The boarding pier of Route A is beside the entrance of city's landmark Nanchan Temple, while Route B travelers will embark at the northern side of Canal Park. The scenic spots passed along the way include Jiangjian Park, Lianrong Bridge, Qingming Bridge and Beitang Rice Market.

Cruises along Route A will depart at 1:30 pm and 7:30 pm every day, and also 3:30 pm on weekends. Boats traveling along Route B will depart 30 minutes after each Route A trip.

During holidays, the company will also run an additional morning cruise. The Route A service will leave at 9:30 am, and the Route B one will start at 10 am.

The price of the cruise will be 180 yuan ($26) per person. Children (1.3m to 1.5m) and school students (under Bachelor's degree) can travel half price.