China Yangtze River Cruises: Book Your Dream Voyage
Discover breathtaking landscapes and ancient history on a Yangtze River cruise, the ultimate way to explore China's iconic waterway.
A journey along the Yangtze River is more than just a cruise; it's an immersion into the heart of China's rich cultural heritage and dramatic natural beauty. This legendary waterway, the longest in Asia, flows through diverse landscapes, from the bustling metropolises of Shanghai and Chongqing to the serene, mist-shrouded peaks of the Three Gorges. Yangtze River cruises offer a unique and comfortable perspective, allowing travelers to witness millennia of history unfold along its banks. Imagine gliding past ancient temples, terraced rice paddies, and small, traditional villages, all while enjoying modern amenities onboard. These voyages are meticulously designed to showcase the very best of the region. They typically span several days, providing ample time to absorb the grandeur of the landscape and delve into local culture. Key highlights often include navigating the awe-inspiring Three Gorges – Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge – marveling at the engineering feat of the Three Gorges Dam, and exploring significant historical sites like the Shibaozhai Temple, perched precariously on a cliff face. Many itineraries also offer excursions to cities like Wuhan, Nanjing, and Suzhou, revealing the economic and cultural dynamism of the Yangtze basin. Whether you're drawn by the epic scenery, the historical significance, or the chance to experience a more relaxed pace of travel through one of the world's most dynamic countries, a Yangtze River cruise promises a deeply rewarding experience. TopTours.ai aggregates options from leading operators, making it easy to compare itineraries, vessel types, and pricing to find the perfect voyage for your adventure. It's an opportunity to witness China from a truly unforgettable vantage point, connecting with its essence in a way that overland travel simply cannot replicate.
Featured Yangtze River Cruises Tours
Discover our top picks for yangtze river cruises in China
Experience Chongqing by night, when all of its riverside is illuminated, during a Yangtze River cruise and evening tour. After a convenient hotel pickup, set off on a nighttime river cruise, travel along Yangtze River and marveling at the city’s glittering skyline. Catch picturesque views of landmarks like the Chongqing Yangtze River Bridge, Bingjiang Park, Huanghuayuan Bridge, Chongqing Theater, Hongya Cave etc. Afterwards, enjoy door-to-door service with a complimentary hotel transfer.
The Yangtze River cruise with the Century Cruises from Yichang to Chongqing sails 5 days and 4 nights upstream along the Yangtze River. And during the 5 days on the essence part of the river, travellers can enjoy a real tour of leisure with the perfect relaxing pace, watching the cities with modern charms, feel the natural sceneries of the passing by peculiar Three Gorges, highly recommended cultural and historical places of interests with pieces of classic poems, and spend wonderful time on the luxury cruises manned with professional staff. For this tour, the Century Cruises company will offering three luxury ships as: Century Oasis, Century Victory and Century Glory.
Explore the pretty Three Gorges including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge by a Chinese 5-star boat downstream along the Yangtze River for a 4-day-and-3-night cruise from Chongqing to Yichang with shore excursions, meals, and accommodation included. Kindly note three excursions are included, but the three sites might be changed as per different boat schedule and we will send you the final three excursions before your tour. If it is rainy or dry season, the boarding dock might be Wanzhou Harbour not Chaotianmen Dock, and cruise will arrange bus to transfer from Chongqing city center to Wangzhou Harbour.
The four night Yangtze River cruises by Victoria Cruise take advantage of the best experiences available with the least hurry – a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. As we cruise upstream from Yichang to Chongqing, both the modern and the ancient are on offer, from the cutting edge technology of the Three Gorges Dam to the untouched beauty along the otherwise inaccessible wilderness.
Explore the pretty Three Gorges by Century Cruises including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge by a Chinese 5-star boat downstream along the Yangtze River for a 4-day-and-3-night cruise from Chongqing to Yichang with three included shore excursions, meals, and accommodation included. Kindly note three excursions are included, but the three sites might be changed as per different boat schedule and we will send you the final three excursions before your tour. For this tour, the Century Cruises company will offering three luxury ships as: Century Oasis, Century Victory and Century Glory.
Explore the pretty Three Gorges by Yangzi Explorer Cruises including Yichang to Chongqing via Badong by a Chinese 5-star boat upstream along the Yangtze River for a 5-day-and-4-night cruise from Yichang to Chongqing with three included shore excursions, meals, and accommodation included. Carrying just 124 passengers, the Yangzi Explorer offers the finest and most personalized service of any ship sailing the river. With other cruise ships accommodating well over 300 passengers the Yangzi Explorer is the market leader by offering such an intimate cruising experience. International standards of service, delivered by the highest ratio of staff to guests, ensure that every level of comfort is catered for during the cruise.
Explore the Three Gorges including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge by a Chinese 5-star boat upstream along the Yangtze River for a 5-day-and-4-night cruise from Yichang to Chongqing with shore excursion, meals, and accommodation included. Kindly note three excursions are included, but the three sites might be changed as per different boat schedule and we will send you the final three excursions before your tour. If it is rainy or dry season, the arrival dock might be Wanzhou Harbour not Chaotianmen Dock, and cruise will arrange bus transfer from Wangzhou Harbour to Chongqing city center.
Victoria Sabrina is the brand-new 5-star cruise and the first eco-friendly Yangtze River cruise built by American managed Victoria Cruises in 2019. It is going to make her first voyage in May 2020 and offers world visitors an amazing deluxe 4-5 days aquatic holiday between Chongqing and Yichang!
1/Book your Three Gorges luxury cruises with us ---fluent support, exclusive deals, 24/7 help, no hidden fees—relax, we handle the rest! 2/Choose us for your Three Gorges cruise:great prices, personalized service, and stress-free trips wuth local expertise! 3/Choose us for Three Gorges: flexible itineraries, cozy stays, and insider tips (best view spots!)—your dream river trip, simplified! 4/Sail Three Gorges with us: private balcony cabins, Sichuan opera shows, and expert guides—turn river views into lifelong memories! 5/Our Three Gorges cruises: exclusive dam tours, tea-tasting workshops, and spacious decks—luxury meets authentic Chinese culture!
The quintessential Yangtze River itinerary! See the spectacular scenery of the Three Gorges, with excursions and optional tours to spots of historic and cultural interest, a scenic Yangtze tributary, evening performance, and the monumental Three Gorges Dam project.
Explore the imposing Three Gorges including Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge by a deluxe 5-star cruise downstream along the Yangtze River for a 4-day-and-3-night experience from Chongqing to Yichang with shore excursions, meals, and accommodation included. Kindly note three excursions are included, but the three sites might be changed as per different boat schedule and we will send you the final three excursions before your tour. You need to consult the exactly cruise name with us as it has different daily schedule. If it is rainy or dry season, the boarding dock might be Wanzhou Harbour not Chaotianmen Dock, and cruise will arrange bus to transfer from Chongqing city center to Wangzhou Harbour.
Victoria is the brand-new 5-star cruise and the first eco-friendly Yangtze River cruise built by American managed Victoria Cruises in 2019. It is going to make her first voyage in May 2020 and offers world visitors an amazing deluxe 4 days aquatic holiday between Chongqing and Yichang and then take a train back to Chongqing.
Sail deep into China’s heart—see the stunning Three Gorges & the monumental power of the Three Gorges Dam.
Including the most famours cities and Tibet and Yangtze river cruise of China: Beijing Xian Chengdu Lhasa-> Yamdrok Tso Lake-> Lhasa Chengdu Chongqing-> Yangtze cruise-> Yichang-> Guangzhou-> Hong Kong Land tour + well selected hotel + domestic air, trains, cruise on Yangze River and Private Guided with your own English speaking guide your own driver at your own pace and schedule.
Explore the pretty Three Gorges by Yangzi Explorer Cruises including Chongqing-Fuling-Wushan-Yichang by a Chinese 5-star boat downstream along the Yangtze River for a 4-day-and-3-night cruise from Chongqing to Yichang with three included shore excursions, meals, and accommodation included. Carrying just 124 passengers, the Yangzi Explorer offers the finest and most personalized service of any ship sailing the river. With other cruise ships accommodating well over 300 passengers the Yangzi Explorer is the market leader by offering such an intimate cruising experience. International standards of service, delivered by the highest ratio of staff to guests, ensure that every level of comfort is catered for during the cruise.
Why Choose Yangtze River Cruises in China?
Spectacular Scenery
Witness the dramatic landscapes of the Three Gorges and other natural wonders from a unique waterside perspective.
Cultural Immersion
Gain insights into ancient Chinese history, traditions, and local life as you pass by significant landmarks and villages.
Comfort and Convenience
Enjoy comfortable accommodations, onboard dining, and guided excursions without the need for constant packing and unpacking.
All-Inclusive Options
Many cruises bundle accommodation, meals, and shore excursions, offering excellent value and simplified planning.
Diverse Itineraries
Choose from various departure points, durations, and routes, often including major cities like Chongqing, Wuhan, and Shanghai.
Photographic Opportunities
Capture breathtaking images of towering gorges, historic temples, and vibrant riverside communities.
Types of Yangtze River Cruises in China
Multi-Day Yangtze River Cruises
These are the classic Yangtze River experiences, typically lasting between 3 to 7 days. They offer a comprehensive journey, often from Chongqing to Shanghai or vice-versa, with multiple shore excursions included.
Shorter Yangtze River Excursions
For travelers with less time, shorter cruises or day trips are available, often focusing on specific sections like the Three Gorges or a city-based river tour.
Luxury Yangtze River Cruises
These premium options provide enhanced comfort, fine dining, and often more exclusive access to sites and experiences, with superior service levels.
What to Expect on Yangtze River Cruises Tours
Duration
Most standard Yangtze River cruises range from 3 nights/4 days to 6 nights/7 days, typically covering the section between Chongqing and Shanghai. Shorter day trips or 1-night options are also available.
Weather
The best times to cruise are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant temperatures and clear skies. Summers are hot and humid, while winters can be cold.
Group Size
Group sizes can vary significantly. Luxury cruises tend to have smaller passenger numbers and excursion groups, while standard cruises can host hundreds of guests, with shore excursions often broken into smaller guided parties.
What's Included
Typically includes accommodation, all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), onboard activities, and guided shore excursions at various ports of call. Drinks and gratuities may or may not be included, so check the specific itinerary.
Meeting Point
Departure points are usually in major cities like Chongqing or Shanghai. Transfers to and from the cruise terminal are often not included in the base price but can be booked as an add-on.
Costs
Prices vary widely based on cruise line, duration, cabin type, and season. Expect prices to start from around $350 USD for shorter, budget-friendly options and go up to $1000+ USD per person for multi-day luxury voyages.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons (spring and autumn), to secure your preferred cruise and cabin.
Consider the direction of your cruise; westbound from Shanghai to Chongqing generally offers better views of the gorges as you ascend.
Pack layers of clothing as temperatures can change, and bring comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.
Familiarize yourself with the visa requirements for China well before your departure.
Carry some local currency (Chinese Yuan) for smaller purchases or tips in smaller towns, though major ports and cruise ships accept cards.
Stay hydrated, particularly during warmer months. Bottled water is usually provided on board.
Be aware of time differences; China operates on a single time zone (UTC+8).
Check reviews for specific cruise lines and ships to gauge service quality, dining, and comfort levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What is the best time of year for a Yangtze River cruise?
A: Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are generally considered the best times. The weather is pleasant for sightseeing, and the scenery is beautiful without the extreme heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Q:What are the main cities visited on a Yangtze River cruise?
A: The most common embarkation/disembarkation cities are Chongqing and Shanghai. Depending on the itinerary, you'll likely visit or pass by cities like Wuhan, Nanjing, and various smaller towns and villages along the river.
Q:Are shore excursions included in the price?
A: For most multi-day cruises, guided shore excursions to key attractions like the Three Gorges Dam, Shibaozhai Temple, and other historical sites are included. Always check the specific tour details when booking.
Q:Can I bring my own snacks or drinks on board?
A: Yes, you can generally bring your own snacks. However, bringing large quantities of alcoholic beverages might be restricted or incur a corkage fee. Bottled water is usually readily available.
Q:How physically demanding are the shore excursions?
A: Most excursions involve walking and some may include stairs or uneven terrain, especially at historical sites. If you have mobility concerns, it's best to inquire about the specific difficulty of excursions for the cruise you are considering.
Q:What is the currency used on the cruise and in China?
A: The currency in China is the Renminbi (RMB), also known as the Chinese Yuan (CNY). Most major cruise ships accept credit cards for onboard purchases, but it's wise to have some cash for smaller vendors or tips.
Q:Do I need a visa to travel to China for a Yangtze River cruise?
A: Yes, most foreign nationals will require a visa to enter China. It's crucial to apply for your visa well in advance of your trip, as processing times can vary.
Why Visit China?
Discover ancient wonders like the Great Wall, a testament to millennia of human ingenuity.
Experience vibrant city life in Shanghai, a dazzling blend of tradition and modernity.
Savor authentic Chinese cuisine, from spicy Sichuan dishes to delicate Cantonese dim sum.
Explore the Terracotta Army, an unparalleled archaeological marvel near Xi'an.
Witness the breathtaking karst landscapes of Guilin and the Li River.
Immerse yourself in rich cultural heritage and diverse regional traditions.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
China boasts a vast and diverse climate. Northern regions experience cold, dry winters and hot summers, while the south is more subtropical with humid summers and milder winters. Coastal areas are generally more temperate, and western China can have arid or mountainous climates.
Best Months
Spring (April to May) and Autumn (September to October) are generally the best months to visit China, offering pleasant temperatures and less rainfall across much of the country.
Peak Season
Peak season typically falls during summer months (June to August) and major national holidays like the Golden Weeks (early May and early October), characterized by warm weather but also larger crowds and higher prices.
Off Season
The off-season, primarily winter (November to March), offers fewer crowds and lower prices, though temperatures can be very cold in many popular tourist areas, especially in the north.
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Plan Your China Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around China is surprisingly efficient. High-speed rail connects major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi'an with impressive speed and comfort, often costing between $50-$150 for inter-city journeys. Within cities, subways are extensive and affordable, typically costing less than $1 per ride. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Didi are also readily available and reasonably priced. For shorter distances or a more local feel, consider renting a bike in some cities. Navigating China offers a modern and convenient travel experience.
Car Rental Deals in China
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your China adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in China
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