Construction begins on new electric tour boats for China's Guangzhou Public Transport Group

China's Jianglong Shipbuilding has begun construction on three new electric sightseeing vessels ordered by local shipowner the Guangzhou Public Transport Group.

The custom vessels, which are of different dimensions, apperances and capacities, will be operated primarily in the Pearl River and the Greater Bay Area between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau.

The newbuildings consist of a 46-metre, 435-passenger vessel, a 43-metre, 430-passenger vessel, and a 39-metre, 360-passenger vessel. All three will be powered by lithium battery packs and fitted with azimuthing thrusters for enhanced manoeuvrability. The vessels' propulsion can deliver a service speed of just under 10 knots.

The vessels will be operated on nighttime sightseeing cruises of the Pearl River and the Greater Bay Area and may also host private banquets, business meetings, corporate events, and live performances.

The vessels will also feature distinct designs. For instance, the 435-passenger and 430-passenger vessels will have vintage design elements reminiscent of the earlier Maritime Silk Road.

Jianglong Shipbuilding had previously delivered a 39-metre, 130-passenger vessel (pictured above) to the same owner.