Yangtze River Cruises
Ever thought about cruising one of the world's longest rivers? The Yangtze cuts through China's heart, passing the Three Gorges where cliffs rise straight from the water. Beijing gives you the Forbidden City and Great Wall, Xi'an reveals those famous Terracotta Warriors, and Chengdu lets you hang out with giant pandas. Shanghai's Bund shows the modern side while Fengdu Ghost City keeps things mysterious.
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- Choose from 18 Yangtze tours
- 29 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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FPalmer • traveled in November
From initial inquiries to our departure we enjoyed every minute of the tour. We were looked after and the guides were of an extremely high standard.
Yin and Yangtze - 15 days - C
Carlos • traveled in January
I think be amazing for first time traveling
China Tour with Chengdu and Yangtze Cruise (Private Tailored) - L
Lily • traveled in December
This tour is very good in creating a personalized tour based on what you want.
China's Historical Legacy and Modernity with Yangtze River Cruise(Private Custom)
10 best Yangtze cruises
Compiled by
MelissaYangtze travel expert at TourRadar
- Yin and Yangtze - 15 days
- 11 Days Yangtze River Group Tour
- Customized China Family Trip with 5-star Cruise, Daily Start & Private Guide
- Yangtze River Deluxe Cruise 4D/3N from Chongqing to Yichang
- Majestic China & Yangtze River Cruise
- China Tour with Chengdu and Yangtze Cruise (Private Tailored)
- China's Historical Legacy and Modernity with Yangtze River Cruise(Private Custom)
- Shanghai & Yangtze Cruise - 16 days
- Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
- Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
Yin and Yangtze - 15 days
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Cruising down the river is super relaxing. The guides are really friendly and knowledgeable.”
Ashley, traveled in October
A three-night Yangtze River cruise takes you through the Three Gorges, with stops at Jade Emperor Scenic Area and Three Gorges Dam. The stunning Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges unfold before you, while shore excursions lead to Goddess Stream. Comfortable accommodation comes standard aboard Century Star or Century Sky Cruiser.
Duration 15 days Destinations Beijing, Luoyang, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Shanghai Age Range Ages 15+ River Yangtze Operator On The Go Tours From $4,310
30% Off- US$3,017You save $1,293
The Victoria USA hosts a three-night cruise through Three Gorges' dramatic landscapes. White Emperor City stands proudly overlooking Qutang Gorge, while Wu Gorge's forest-covered peaks and Goddess Stream await exploration. Shore excursions include Fengdu Ghost City and Three Gorges Dam.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome River Yangtze Operator Top China Travel From
30% Off- US$1,982
The 5-star President Ship offers private balcony cabins for your Yangtze adventure. Three Gorges Dam, Qutang Gorge, and Shennv Stream highlight the itinerary, complemented by onboard entertainment and guided excursions.
Duration 16 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Chengdu, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome River Yangtze Operator TravelChinaGuide From
30% Off- US$4,019
A 5-star vessel takes you along the legendary Yangtze River through Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. Luxury balcony cabins serve as your home while visiting Fengdu Ghost City and Three Gorges Dam. Morning Taiji and regional cuisine enhance your journey, with optional excursions to White Emperor City and Ship Lift.
Duration 4 days Destinations Chongqing, Three Gorges, Yichang Age Range Ages 18+ River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
30% Off- US$799
Majestic China & Yangtze River Cruise
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The food and accommodation were great. The guides & escort work well.”
Jack, traveled in October
The Yangzi Explorer welcomes you aboard for unique visits to Dachang Ancient Town and Project 816. Champagne flows at private lookout points, while world-famous Fang Weng cave restaurant offers exceptional dining. Morning Tai Chi sessions complement your sail through Qutang Gorge.
Duration 9 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Yichang Age Range Ages 35+ River Yangtze Operator Tweet World Travel From
30% Off- US$3,356
China Tour with Chengdu and Yangtze Cruise (Private Tailored)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The cruise down the Yangtze was exciting. Well worth doing.”
Vicki, traveled in January
The Yangtze flows from Chongqing to Yichang on this 3-night cruise featuring Fengdu Ghost City and Shennv Stream excursions. Three Gorges Dam visits combine with onboard Tai Chi and evening entertainment. Premium cabin accommodations offer balcony views throughout.
Duration 13 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Yangtze, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range Ages 12+ River Yangtze Operator Odynovo From $3,614
10% Off- US$3,253You save $361
China's Historical Legacy and Modernity with Yangtze River Cruise(Private Custom)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“This tour is very good in creating a personalized tour based on what you want.”
Lily, traveled in August
Victoria Jenna hosts a three-day adventure through spectacular Three Gorges. The itinerary features Goddess Stream excursion, Three Gorges Dam, and engaging onboard activities from Chongqing to Yichang, with superior cabin accommodation and full board included.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome River Yangtze Operator Odynovo From $2,679
10% Off- US$2,411You save $268
This 3-night luxury voyage through Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, and Wu Gorge showcases China's natural beauty. The itinerary includes Fengdu's Jade Emperor site, traditional riverside villages, and Three Gorges Dam. Comfortable cabin accommodations provide stunning views throughout.
Duration 16 days Destinations Shanghai, Beijing, Luoyang, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge Age Range Ages 15+ River Yangtze Operator On The Go Tours From $5,185
30% Off- US$3,630You save $1,556
Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Great experience in general. Would recommend to friends and family!”
Borislav, traveled in November
The Yangtze reveals its most spectacular section as you sail through Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. Your downstream route from Chongqing features Three Gorges Dam and either Shennong Stream or Goddess Stream. The 5-star vessel provides buffet dining and comfortable berth cabins.
Duration 4 days Destinations Chongqing, Three Gorges, Yichang Age Range Ages 18+ River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
30% Off- US$599
Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The shore excursions were great, the local tour guides were excellent, great English and very knowledgable.”
Claire, traveled in July
A 5-star upstream cruise from Yichang to Chongqing reveals China's greatest waterway. The dramatic Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges frame your 5-day journey, while shore excursions take you to Three Gorges Dam and Jade Emperor Sanctuary. Comfortable berth cabins and regional cuisine enhance your stay.
Duration 5 days Destinations Yichang, Three Gorges, Chongqing Age Range Ages 18+ River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
30% Off- US$599
What our customers ask about Yangtze River Cruises
When is the best time to take a Yangtze River cruise?
The most favorable conditions for Yangtze River cruises occur from April through October. The data from operators like Victoria Cruises and Goddess 2 shows that winter months (November-March) have limited sailings and cold temperatures. July and August bring the warmest weather and largest crowds while April and May offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists. A TourRadar traveler noted "The spring weather was perfect for viewing the Three Gorges and enjoying deck activities like morning Tai Chi."
What are the main highlights typically included in a Yangtze River cruise?
The journey takes travelers through the Three Gorges (Qutang Wu and Xiling) with stops at significant landmarks. Passengers explore the Three Gorges Dam Fengdu Ghost City and Shennv Stream during shore excursions. Ships like Victoria Anna and Goddess 2 Cruise provide balcony cabins and cultural programs. Visits to sites such as Shibaozhai Pagoda connect visitors with local traditions. As a TourRadar traveler shared: "The Three Gorges were breathtaking and the shore excursions especially to Shennv Stream gave us amazing insights into local life along the river."
What types of accommodations are available on Yangtze River cruises?
The ships operating Yangtze River cruises maintain 4-5 star standards with Victoria Cruise and Goddess 2 Cruise leading the fleet. Most rooms come with private balconies and twin beds while luxury seekers can book Executive or Presidential Suites. Land accommodations at properties like Novotel Hotels in Beijing and Holiday Inn in Shanghai bookend many cruise packages. A TourRadar traveler shared "Our balcony cabin on Victoria Cruise was comfortable and well-appointed offering spectacular views of the gorges from our private veranda."
Are shore excursions included in Yangtze River cruise packages?
The standard packages cover three main excursions: the Three Gorges Dam Shennv Stream (or Goddess Stream) and either Fengdu Ghost City or Shibaozhai Pagoda. Guests can add optional tours like the White Emperor City experience for around USD 295. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The included shore excursions were well-organized and provided excellent insights into local culture and history."
How much does a typical Yangtze River cruise cost?
Prices range from USD 799 for basic 4-day cruises to USD 5415 for extended 16-day tours that include stops in Beijing and Shanghai. The rates cover lodging meals guided excursions and onboard activities. Extra costs include optional tours and staff gratuities which average USD 25-30 per person. A TourRadar traveler noted: "While not inexpensive the value was excellent considering the quality of accommodations meals and included excursions."
What kind of dining options are available on Yangtze River cruises?
Ships serve three meals daily combining Chinese and Western dishes. Victoria Cruise offers buffet options along with special events like the Captain's Welcome Dinner and Farewell Banquet. The menus often feature regional specialties from ports along the route. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The variety of both Chinese and Western dishes at the buffets was impressive and the special themed dinners were memorable experiences."
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