China · YANGTZE RIVER CRUISES
The 9 best yangtze river cruises you can book today, with what each costs, how long it runs and who it suits. Number one is first for a reason, so start there.
Board near Hongyadong for a roughly 45-minute evening cruise where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers meet. You’ll see Chongqing’s lit-up towers, Grand Theatre area, bridges, and riverbanks from the water. Bring your passport, arrive early, and do not count on English commentary.
“The cruise was very nice and I would recommend to buy the vip package for 80 Yuan on board.”
Board at Yichang’s Maoping Wharf for a five-day upstream cruise to Chongqing. You’ll pass Xiling, Wu, and Qutang gorges, visit the Three Gorges Dam, take three included shore excursions, and sleep in a half-twin cabin. English help may be available, but ship and daily plans can change.
“We wanted a slower pace, more relaxing & nostalgic feeling to the final leg of our central China trip. Taking a cruise on the magnificent Yangtze river will be an excellent choice. We decided we will cruise from Yichang to Chongqing on a 5 dRead more”
Spend four days and three nights aboard Century Oasis, Century Victory, or Century Glory, sailing downstream from Chongqing to Yichang. You’ll pass Qutang, Wu, and Xiling gorges, visit Fengdu Ghost City and Shennong Stream, and tour the Three Gorges Dam with bilingual onboard guidance.
“Our journey from Chongqing to the 3 gorges dam was absolutely first class. We cannot recommend this experience with Century Cruises enough. The ship and its appointments were excellent and always immaculate. The crew were friendly aRead more”
You’ll ride from your central Chongqing hotel to Chaotianmen, cruise for about an hour past illuminated bridges and Hongya Cave, then visit Jiefangbei Square. Guides such as Jim and Albert explain the city along the way. Hotel pickup, drop-off, a private vehicle, and cruise ticket are included.
“We were picked up by “Jim” and his driver. Jim’s English was very good. As we drove to the cruise boat, he explained a little Chongqing history. On the boat, he explained so many things. He was professional, a gentleman, and engaging, and Read more”
Sail downstream from Chongqing to Yichang aboard a Victoria five-star ship, with English and Chinese guides, meals, Three Gorges views, Fengdu, Shennv Stream, and the Three Gorges Dam. Andy’s team confirms the ship and boarding details, while optional tours add cost but bring extra history and entertainment.
“Tour along the Yangtze river was a great experience. Food was amazing. Soft drinks and juices are included in lunch/dinner, so skip the drinking packages, they are not worth it. Drinks and cocktails are cheap anyway and there‘s not enough time in between to enjoy all of these flat rates. Staff is really friendly and helpful. However, if you enroll in all the excursions, get some drinks in the bar in the evening and the luggage transportation, be prepared to spend another good amount on the cruise ship 😅 Bring some cash for the guys that transport your luggage from the pier to the ship (there are hundreds of steps)…”
Sail downstream from Chongqing to Yichang for four days and three nights. Your cruise includes a half-twin cabin, meals, a boat guide, and three shore excursions. Visit Fengdu, pass through the Three Gorges, see the Lesser Three Gorges or a similar site, and tour Three Gorges Dam.
“Excellent service, tours, food, program and good cabins with balcony. Great experience, would highly recommend!”
Sail from Chongqing to Yichang aboard a Victoria Cruise ship, passing the Three Gorges and stopping at Shuanggui Mountain, Shennv Stream, and the Three Gorges Dam. English and Chinese onboard service is provided, with optional visits to Fengdu Ghost City, Baidi City, and the ship lift.
“An unforgettable experience: a river cruise on the Yangtze River is a must for anyone traveling to China. Andy’s service was exceptional, with excellent communication and quick responses to every question. He took great care of us, ensuring we had a smooth and enjoyable journey. The breathtaking landscapes and historical landmarks we encountered made this trip truly memorable”
Spend three nights aboard Victoria Sabrina, sailing from Chongqing to Yichang through the Three Gorges. You’ll visit Shuanggui Mountain, ride a small boat on Shennv Stream, and tour the Three Gorges Dam. Optional stops include Fengdu Ghost City, Baidi City, the Romance of the Three Kingdoms show, and the ship lift.
“This was my 15th cruise and the WORST cruise experience I have ever had. There was no air conditioning on the ship for the first night and a half of the next day. It was utterly miserable. What food I was able to eat was nearly inedible. I communicated my food allergies to tRead more”
Spend four days aboard the Victoria Sabrina, or the Victoria Isabella from September 28, 2025, sailing from Chongqing through the Three Gorges to the Three Gorges Dam. Expect a high-end cabin, onboard meals, selected shore excursions, luggage handling, and online support. Optional visits cost extra.
“The locals are particularly welcoming. When asking for directions in the streets, they will be patient enough to show you the way and sometimes take you straight to your destination. While shopping at the small shop, the owner will also share Read moreAuto-translated”
Pick a wall, a palace, a river or a table.
