will li river cruise be operating in winter in Guilin.

Yes, it is in operation in winter time.
On the way from Guilin to Yangshuo, there are many famous tourist sites, Elephant-Trunk Hill, Rooster Fighting Hill, Pagoda Hill, Forest of Odd Shaped Peaks, Daxu Ancient Town, and Ox Gorge. You can start your cruise by ship to reach to Yangshuo, but there is no ship for you to come back, so you may choose coach to go back Guilin. For booking tickets, booking it in advance is the best choice.