River
River
A Yangtze river cruise is a long journey through the heart of China, pairing scenery with thousands of years of history and culture. As Asia's longest river, the Yangtze winds through misty mountains, dramatic gorges, and busy cities, linking ancient temples and rural villages with engineering on the scale of the Three Gorges Dam. Most itineraries sail between Chongqing and Yichang, or continue toward Shanghai, giving guests a relaxed way to see both the old and new faces of China. With onboard lectures, guided shore excursions, and wide river views, a Yangtze river cruise sets cultural depth, natural scenery, and comfort within easy reach.
Chongqing
The primary embarkation point for most Yangtze cruises, Chongqing is a massive, fast-growing city set on hilly terrain. Before boarding, guests can visit the Ciqikou Ancient Town, sample spicy Sichuan cuisine, or explore WWII-era history museums.
Fengdu (Ghost City)
A site combining Taoist, Buddhist, and Confucian influences, Fengdu Ghost City is a hillside complex of temples, statues, and bridges that represent the Chinese vision of the afterlife. It's both spiritual and culturally fascinating.
Shibaozhai Pagoda
This 12-story red pagoda clings to a cliffside above the river. Guests climb to the top for panoramic views and explore the surrounding village, which offers a glimpse into traditional Chinese life.
Three Gorges
The Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges are the scenic heart of a Yangtze cruise, with towering cliffs, mist-covered peaks, and narrow river passages. Cruising through the gorges is a highlight for nature lovers and photographers.
Three Gorges Dam
One of the world's largest engineering projects, the Three Gorges Dam is both a technological marvel and a symbol of China's modernization. Tours include the locks, visitor centers, and panoramic views of the surrounding reservoir.
Yichang
Often the disembarkation point for cruises through the Three Gorges, Yichang offers a more relaxed, smaller-city atmosphere. It's the gateway to the dam and a transition point for overland travel or domestic flights.
Wuhan (on longer itineraries)
A major Yangtze city with over 3,000 years of history, Wuhan offers museums, lakeside parks, and significant cultural landmarks like the Yellow Crane Tower. It's included on extended cruises connecting to the lower Yangtze.
Nanjing
One of China's former capitals, Nanjing is rich with historical and architectural landmarks, from Ming Dynasty tombs to Sun Yat-sen's Mausoleum. The city is often included on longer cruises between Yichang and Shanghai.
Shanghai
The final stop on some extended cruises, Shanghai is China's commercial capital and a global metropolis. Guests can explore the Bund, Yu Garden, and the skyscrapers of Pudong, or extend their stay in this dynamic city.
River sailings
We'll send the Yangtze departures we sell across the lines that sail it, with starting fares. Reply with your dates and a specialist will tell you the best months to sail and help you choose.