Unmanned smart cruise boats line the shore of Baihua Lake. [Photo/WeChat account of Shuangshuang Guiyang]

Guizhou's first unmanned, AI-powered cruise boats have made a stunning debut on Baihua Lake in Guiyang, capital of Southwest China's Guizhou province.

Shaped like sleek white space capsules, these new energy smart boats feature advanced autonomous navigation systems, semi-enclosed viewing decks, central air conditioning, and multimedia setups, blending futuristic tech with modern comfort.

Each boat holds 8-10 passengers, with tour packages lasting 30, 50, or 70 minutes. Services include morning or afternoon tea, as well as options for online or in-person meetings.

Built with safety in mind, the boats use a compartmentalized hull to prevent sinking, even if damaged. Four electric thrusters provide backup power – if two fail, the others ensure a safe return. A 360-degree sensor system detects floating debris and underwater currents up to 50 meters away, automatically adjusting the route to avoid obstacles.