Things to Know for Three Gorges Cruise

The Yangtze River's Three Gorges is renowned for its unique natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, attracting countless tourists. A cruise is the best way to explore the Three Gorges, offering both stunning views and a comfortable travel experience. Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy your Three Gorges cruise to the fullest.

 

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1. Upstream vs. Downstream
2. Cruise Operators
3. Recommended Cruises
4. Must-See Sights Along the Way
5. Pre-Departure Sightseeing

 

Part 1. Upstream vs. Downstream

When planning a Three Gorges cruise, it's essential to understand the difference between upstream and downstream cruises. Taking the Chongqing to Yichang route as an example:

Upstream Cruises: Depart from Yichang, traveling against the current to Chongqing. This journey typically lasts 5 days and 4 nights (boarding in Yichang on the first night and disembarking in Chongqing on the fifth morning).

 

Downstream Cruises: Depart from Chongqing, traveling with the current to Yichang. This journey usually takes 4 days and 3 nights (boarding in Chongqing on the first night and disembarking in Yichang at noon on the fourth day).

 

Characteristics of Upstream and Downstream Cruises

Downstream Cruises:

• Faster Travel: The downstream journey from Chongqing to Yichang is quicker, generally taking 4 days, with an average speed of 28-30 km/h.
• Uninterrupted Rest: Since the downstream journey is faster, the boat usually does not sail at night, ensuring passengers can rest and enjoy onboard entertainment without disruptions.
• Timely Schedule: Daytime stops for sightseeing are scheduled precisely, allowing passengers to explore key attractions and enjoy the Three Gorges' stunning scenery.

 

Upstream Cruises:

• Leisurely Pace: The slower pace of upstream cruises provides ample time to enjoy the river views, take photos, and relax.
• More Activities: With extra time, upstream cruises offer more leisure activities and lectures, allowing passengers to learn about Chinese landscape painting, history, and participate in various onboard wellness lectures and entertainment shows.

 

Part 2. Cruise Operators

Operated by different cruise companies, the more famous cruise companies are Yangtze Gold Cruises, Century Cruises, President Cruises, Damei Cruises, Changjiang Overseas Cruises, Victoria Cruises, Interstellar Cruises, Chutian Cruises, and Eastern Royal Cruises, etc. Cruise star rating is divided into business, quasi-five-star, five-star, five-star, super five-star. Of course, these cruise star standards will be slightly affected by the time of the cruise ship's launch, but it does not affect the love of many tourists every year to take a cruise to the Yangtze River Three Gorges.

 

Part 3. Recommended Cruises

1. Yangtze Explorer

• Capacity: 124 passengers  
• Decks: 6  
• Ideal for: Travelers seeking a tranquil experience, including families with elderly members  

 

 

Introduction  
The Yangtze Explorer is known as the most luxurious and well-appointed river cruise ship on the Yangtze, boasting the highest passenger-to-staff ratio and a spacious, refined environment comparable to the finest river cruises worldwide.

 

Room Types  
The Yangtze Explorer offers only 62 suites, categorized as Deluxe Suites, Executive Suites, and Celebrity Suites. The suites are spacious and comfortable, each with specific privileges to elevate the guest experience.

 

 

Facilities and Services  
The Yangtze Explorer is the designated cruise for foreign ambassadors visiting the Three Gorges, featuring exquisite interior decor, gourmet cuisine, and attentive service. With unique activities and off-the-beaten-path excursions, every detail is designed for an elite experience.

 

 

2. Yangtze No. 3

• Capacity: 600 passengers  
• Decks: 7  
• Highlights: The most advanced facilities and finest hardware on the Yangtze  
• Ideal for: Families and passengers who prioritize onboard amenities  

 

 

Introduction  
Inspired by European river cruises, the Yangtze No. 3 integrates the best of ocean and river cruise design. With innovative functionality, high-quality interior design, eco-friendly technologies, and enhanced comfort, it aims to provide high-end leisure and wellness experiences.

 

Room Types  
The Yangtze No. 3 offers 11 types of rooms, including Executive, Scenic, Family, and Presidential Suites. The rooms are designed for comfort, with ample amenities, daily refreshed supplies, and each equipped with private balconies and noise-reduction features.

 

 

Facilities and Services  
A complete range of amenities includes a theater, gym, KTV, children’s play area, bar, spa, and outdoor water park. The top deck offers a 360-degree panoramic viewing area, providing a fully immersive river view experience.

 

 

3. Century Oasis

• Capacity: 650 passengers  
• Decks: 7  
• Highlights: Trendy, innovative, and stylish design with outstanding food and service  
• Ideal for: Family travelers and those who enjoy stylish accommodations  

 

 

 Introduction  
The Century Oasis combines safety, technology, and comfort, powered by an eco-friendly propulsion system. It integrates smart energy systems to offer a luxurious yet sustainable cruising experience.

 

Room Types  
The 255 cabins are spread across various decks and include both interior rooms and spacious balcony suites. Room types range from standard cabins to family, executive, and presidential suites, each with private balconies and well-equipped bathrooms.

 

 

Facilities and Services  
With a focus on nature-inspired themes, the ship features theaters, bars, clubs, and fitness centers that create a serene environment. The Oasis offers a unique floating city experience, enabling guests to explore the Three Gorges comfortably and enjoy onboard entertainment.

 

4. Victoria Sabrina

• Capacity: 690 passengers  
• Decks: 7  
• Highlights: The largest capacity on the Yangtze, modern and eco-friendly  
• Ideal for: Young travelers, international tourists, and those seeking premium service  

 

 

Introduction  
Victoria Sabrina is a pioneering eco-friendly ship, integrating a direct-current power system that minimizes noise and vibrations, positioning it as the "Tesla of the Yangtze."

 

Room Types  
The Victoria Sabrina offers twin rooms, single rooms, executive suites, and the Shangri-La Presidential Suite, each with private balconies and fully equipped bathrooms. Daily cleaning and disinfection services are provided for added comfort.

 

 

Facilities and Services  
Managed to international standards with bilingual staff, the ship offers a wide range of entertainment options, including a theater, gym, KTV, bar, and kids’ club. There’s also an executive lounge, the Yangtze Club, a sky deck, and more.

 

5. Yangtze No. 1

• Capacity: 222 passengers  
• Decks: 5  
• Highlights: The only ship to pass through the Three Gorges Dam ship lift  
• Ideal for: Families with elderly members or travelers interested in an immersive experience  

 

 

Introduction  
Yangtze No. 1 is a top-tier cruise vessel often chosen by high-profile guests and international delegations. As the only cruise that goes through the ship lift and the Gezhouba Dam lock, it offers a unique experience with a direct arrival in Yichang.

 

Room Types  
Rooms include balcony suites and premium suites, such as Executive Rooms, Scenic Suites, and Presidential Suites. These suites come with privileges like round-trip transportation, dedicated dining, free drinks, and more.

 

Facilities and Services  
Featuring a grand hall with panoramic windows, the Sun Deck offers a relaxing outdoor space with a theme centered around blue skies and the Yangtze River. Facilities include a bar, dance hall, cigar lounge, fitness center, and swimming pool.

 

 

6. Century Legend

• Capacity: 400 passengers  
• Decks: 6  
• Highlights: Operates the Chongqing to Shanghai route year-round  
• Ideal for: Environmentally-conscious travelers seeking premium experiences  

 

 

Introduction  
Century Legend uses advanced eco-friendly technology, integrating Scandinavian-inspired designs that focus on sustainability, energy-saving, and a low-carbon footprint. Its quiet ambiance creates a relaxing “green” experience.

 

Room Types  
Accommodations range from deluxe standard rooms to executive suites, with large balconies, spacious bathrooms, and in-room amenities like purified water and LCD TVs, creating a peaceful environment.

 

 

Facilities and Services  
The ship features a spacious lobby, an indoor heated pool, a multifunctional theater, and a cinema with simultaneous interpretation. The expansive lounge area provides a comfortable environment for guests to relax.

 

7. Goddess 3

• Capacity: 650 passengers  
• Decks: 7  
• Highlights: Integrates Chinese cultural elements from Three Gorges and Goddess legends  
• Ideal for: Families with children  

 

 

Introduction  
Goddess 3 integrates traditional Chinese decor that highlights the culture and history of the Three Gorges and the Goddess legend, presenting an ambiance that transports guests into a historical setting.

 

Room Types  
The cruise offers 319 rooms in nine types, suitable for a variety of needs, from standard cabins to larger suites.

 

 

Facilities and Services  
Goddess 3 is a “floating city,” offering a range of amenities like a children’s play area, cinema, fitness center, and shopping. The onboard arcade makes it unique among Yangtze cruises, catering especially to families.

 

8. Apollo Star

• Capacity: 650 passengers  
• Decks: 7  
• Highlights: A dual land-and-water experience  
• Ideal for: Budget-conscious travelers  

 

 

Introduction  
Built with a 1.5 billion yuan investment, Apollo Star combines an advanced power system with a sophisticated interior inspired by ancient Greek aesthetics, often described as a masterpiece on the Yangtze.

 

Room Types  
All 217 rooms are deluxe river-view rooms, including balcony rooms, family rooms, and executive suites. 

 

 

Facilities and Services  
Apollo Star features dual elevators, a self-serve restaurant, VIP dining, a sky bar, and amenities such as a fitness center, shop, reading lounge, and dance floor, providing a well-rounded entertainment experience for guests.

 

Part 4. Must-See Sights Along the Way

Qutang Gorge: The narrowest of the Three Gorges, it presents towering cliffs on either side and the iconic landscape depicted on the 10-yuan note.

 

Baidi City (White Emperor City): Located atop a hill at the entrance to Qutang Gorge, this historic site is adorned with ancient temples and pavilions, making it a photographer’s dream.

 

Wu Gorge: Known for its ethereal beauty, Wu Gorge offers lush peaks and tranquil waters. Travelers will be captivated by the views of the continuous mountain ridges and serene river scenes.

 

Three Little Gorges: These smaller yet equally scenic gorges—Longmen, Bawu, and Dicui—are located along the tributary Daning River and are famous for their steep cliffs, green bamboo forests, and ancient hanging coffins.

 

Xiling Gorge: The longest of the Three Gorges, it is known for its thrilling rapids and scenic beauty. Following the construction of the Three Gorges Dam, much of the gorge has become calmer, making it easier to explore.

 

Three Gorges Dam: The world’s largest hydroelectric dam, a masterpiece of engineering. At the Dam Scenic Area, you’ll find observation decks, including Tanziling, where you can appreciate the dam’s impressive scale.

 

Part 5. Pre-Departure Sightseeing

If you arrive in the embarkation city early or plan to stay for an additional day or two after disembarking, taking some time to explore Chongqing and Wuhan (a possible stop when starting in Yichang) will add extra richness to your Three Gorges cruise experience. These cities hold unique attractions that are well worth your time.

 

Chongqing

Liziba Observation Platform  
Watch as trains seemingly pass right through a building, an architectural marvel and now an iconic photo spot in Chongqing. This unique design has earned Liziba the title of a must-see for visitors.

 

Ciqikou Ancient Town  
Once a bustling river port, Ciqikou’s cobbled streets, traditional teahouses, and local food stalls offer a glimpse into old Chongqing’s heritage. It's a wonderful place to try local snacks and soak up the city’s history.

 

Yangtze River Cableway  
The cableway, spanning the Yangtze River, provides stunning views, whether it’s the misty river scenes by day or the glittering cityscape by night. Gliding across the river on this aerial tram makes for an unforgettable experience.

 

Hongya Cave  
With its traditional stilted architecture, Hongya Cave is best enjoyed at night when lights illuminate the buildings and the entire area exudes a fairy-tale charm. Often compared to scenes from *Spirited Away*, it’s one of Chongqing’s most photogenic spots.

 

Wuhan

Yellow Crane Tower  
An enduring symbol of Wuhan, the Yellow Crane Tower is steeped in poetry and history. From the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city, the Yangtze River, and the bustling scenes of boats and bridges below.

 

East Lake  
Stroll along the lake, enjoy the tranquil surroundings, and experience a slice of serenity amid Wuhan’s busy urban life. This scenic area offers lush landscapes and quiet walking paths ideal for relaxation.

 

Jianghan Road Pedestrian Street  
Known as "the world's longest pedestrian street," Jianghan Road is famous for its eclectic architectural styles, from Romanesque and Byzantine to Renaissance. Often called "Wuhan’s 20th Century Architecture Museum," it’s a perfect blend of history and modern life.

These starting and ending points offer a fantastic extension to your cruise, allowing you to experience more of China’s vibrant cities before or after the peaceful journey down the Yangtze.