Conclusion first
The cruise runs in every season; the differences are mainly in how it feels and how far you can see, not in whether there is anything to see. What you actually want to avoid is extreme weather, not a particular season.
Spring
- Comfortable temperatures and gentle river breezes — a good time to sit on deck.
- Rain is more frequent; bring rain gear, as sailings may be affected.
- Day–night temperature gaps remain, so a jacket is still needed.
Summer
- Days are hot, which makes the night cruise a way to escape the heat — strong river breezes feel better than the city.
- Thunderstorms and severe convective weather are more common; check the forecast.
- Summer holiday crowds are large — book early and arrive early.
Autumn
- Most people consider this the most comfortable period: pleasant temperatures, lower humidity and better visibility.
- Crowds concentrate around National Day and other holidays; allow more queueing time.
- Nights turn noticeably cooler, especially on deck.
Winter
- Damp cold is the main challenge — the felt temperature is often lower than the number; wear a thick coat and a windproof layer.
- Fog is more likely, which can affect visibility and sailing arrangements.
- Crowds are relatively light, making the experience more relaxed.
Three things to do in any season
- Check the weather: focus on wind and rain, not only temperature.
- Bring a jacket: the river wind is strong and always feels cooler than the shore.
- Book ahead: holidays and summer are hard peaks; do not gamble on tickets left on the day.
