Over 400 tour boats were launched for the summer season at central Beijing's Beihai Park on Monday, the Beijing Daily reports.

A worker conducts safety checks on tour boats at Beihai Park in Beijing on Monday, March 10, 2008.

Now that the ice formerly covering the lake has completely melted, the boats are once again ready for rent. Each boat underwent a safety inspection by the maritime affairs office and was then polished until it shined.

Other parks and gardens in the capital city, such as the Summer Palace and Yuyuantan Park, have also opened their tour boat services.

(CIR March 12, 2008)