Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Taking a cruise along the Yangtze River is often cited as a highlight for those exploring China. This particular 5-day journey from Yichang to Chongqing on Victoria Cruise aims to balance sightseeing with relaxation, offering a window into both the country’s ancient and contemporary marvels. Whether you’re after breathtaking scenery or insightful cultural stops, this cruise offers a solid option—though it’s worth examining the details to see if it matches your travel style.
We like the way this tour combines visits to iconic sites like the Three Gorges Dam with the more tranquil scenery of the Gorges of the Yangtze, providing a well-rounded experience. The onboard guides seem knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the overall journey. Also, the sightseeing options, including the Shennong Stream and Fengdu Ghost City, add a layer of cultural richness that many similar cruises might skip.
A potential consideration is the non-refundable booking policy, which means travelers should be confident about their dates and plans before booking. The tour’s price point, around $550 per person, appears to offer fair value when you factor in accommodations, meals, and guided excursions, but it’s always worth comparing with other options for similar itineraries.
This cruise suits those who enjoy gentle travel, scenic beauty, and a mix of modern engineering feats with traditional sites. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a leisurely pace rather than high-adrenaline adventures, and those interested in experiencing China’s vast waterways without the hassle of multiple transfers.
Key Points
- The cruise offers a balanced blend of sightseeing and relaxation over 5 days.
- Guest reviews highlight friendly staff and beautiful scenery as standout features.
- The itinerary includes famous sites like the Three Gorges Dam and Fengdu Ghost City, with optional excursions.
- The experience is ideal for small groups, with a maximum of 15 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere.
- The price includes accommodation, meals, and guides but excludes optional excursions and a service charge.
- Travelers should be aware of the non-refundable policy and extra costs for private rooms or suites.
A Detailed Look at the Cruise Experience
Starting Point and First Impressions
Your journey begins at Maoping Port, Zigui—a scenic spot slightly outside of Yichang. Check-in is scheduled between 17:30 and 20:30 on Day 1, giving you plenty of time to settle into your cabin and explore the ship’s amenities. You might choose to arrive earlier via a private transfer (which the tour can arrange at an extra cost), making your arrival as smooth as possible. This initial evening is more about unwinding than sightseeing, setting the stage for the adventures ahead.
Day 1: Setting Sail and First Glimpse of China’s Engineering Marvels
As you board, expect a relaxed atmosphere where you can get acquainted with your floating hotel. The cruise offers a good chance to familiarize yourself with the ship – from dining areas to viewing decks – before the real sightseeing begins. The initial night at Maoping Port allows for a gentle start, shedding travel fatigue.
Day 2: The Iconic Three Gorges Dam and Xiling Gorge
One of the highlights is a visit to the Three Gorges Dam located at Sandouping. This is the largest hydroelectric power station in the world, and you’ll get a close look at the impressive engineering that controls the river’s flow and generates power for millions. The guided tour includes details about the dam’s scale and importance, and the possibility of exploring the ship lock with the world’s largest ship lift adds an extra thrill.
Later, the cruise takes you through Xiling Gorge, the longest and deepest of the three main gorges. Expect breathtaking views of steep cliffs and lush greenery, perfectly suited for photography or simply soaking in the tranquil scenery. The guide’s commentary helps you understand the significance of this natural wonder, and optional excursions to the Tribe of the Three Gorges or Hometown of Qu Yuan can deepen your cultural insights if conditions permit.
Day 3: Scenic Gorges and Cultural Stops
The morning begins with a transfer to a smaller vessel for the Shennong Stream trip—an intimate journey through narrower, more dramatic gorges. This part of the cruise is often praised for its impressive natural beauty, with forested cliffs and lush landscapes providing a stark contrast to the engineering marvels of the dam.
Following this, you’ll sail through Wu Gorge, renowned for its serenity and forested slopes, then through Qutang Gorge, the shortest but most dramatic of the three. The narrow, towering cliffs create an awe-inspiring atmosphere, and many travelers find these moments to be the highlight of the trip.
In the late afternoon or evening, optional shore visits include White Emperor City or a spectacular light show titled “Return to the Three Gorges.” These extras, while not included in the base price, offer a deeper dive into local history and modern entertainment.
Day 4: From Scenic Views to Cultural Heritage
The fourth day brings you ashore at Chongqing, a city famous for its fiery hotpot and mountainous terrain. The cruise includes a stop at Shuanggui Mountain—home to the Xiaoguanshan Ancient Folk Culture Park, which showcases reconstructed architectural relics and scenic landscapes. Here, you can reflect on the impact of the Three Gorges Dam’s water rise and the efforts to preserve cultural heritage.
Another optional stop is Shibaozhai, known for its impressive wooden pagoda. Depending on river conditions, this site may or may not be included, but it’s a worthwhile cultural highlight.
The day ends with a visit to Fengdu Ghost City, famous for its statues depicting ghosts and devils. While the optional excursion is not included in the standard package, it’s often praised for its eerie atmosphere and sculptural storytelling.
Day 5: Leaving the River at Chongqing
Your cruise concludes with a morning disembarkation at Chaotianmen, in Chongqing, a city often called the “Mountain City” for its rugged terrain. The process is quick and straightforward, giving you time to explore this vibrant metropolis or continue your journey.
What’s Included and What’s Not
The package price of approximately $550 per person covers 4 nights aboard the vessel, including all meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), a professional bilingual guide, and the main excursions listed in the itinerary. The cruise also includes accommodation on a twin-share basis, with options for suites available upon request.
However, extras are not included—most notably a CNY200 service charge per adult, optional shore excursions (like White Emperor City or Fengdu Ghost City), and single-room supplements if you prefer solo accommodation. Transportation to and from the port, such as pickup or hotel transfers, is available but at an additional cost.
How Does the Price Stack Up?
Considering the comprehensiveness of the itinerary, the covered meals, and the guided visits, the cost seems reasonable for a five-day tour of this scale. The inclusion of expert guides and access to significant sites adds value that many other tours may lack. Still, travelers should compare with similar cruises to ensure they’re getting the best deal; some might find similar experiences for slightly more or less.
The Experience: What You’ll Remember
Many travelers describe the Yangtze River as stunning, with one reviewer noting, “Yangtze river is beautiful and boat staff friendly.” The combination of natural scenery and impressive engineering structures offers a unique perspective on China’s landscape and development. The guided commentary helps you interpret these sights, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.
The small group size—limited to 15 travelers—encourages a personal atmosphere, and the onboard staff receive praise for their friendliness and professionalism. Guests often appreciate the balanced itinerary that allows both sightseeing and relaxation, making it suitable for those who prefer a gentle, unhurried pace.
While the non-refundable policy is a drawback for some, it emphasizes the importance of planning carefully before booking. The optional excursions, some of which are not included, give flexibility but also mean you can tailor the trip to your interests and budget.
Who Will Love This Cruise?
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting to experience the immense scale of the Yangtze River and its key sights without rushing. It’s ideal for those interested in engineering feats, scenic natural beauty, and cultural history, all wrapped in a comfortable cruise.
Family groups, small travel parties, or solo adventurers who enjoy guided tours will find this an accessible and enriching choice. If you’re seeking a leisurely pace with plenty of time to take in the views, learn from guides, and perhaps take optional excursions, this cruise provides a balanced approach.
FAQ
Is pickup from my hotel or airport included?
No, the tour does not include pickup or drop-off transfers, but they can be arranged at an extra cost.
What is the price per person?
The approximate price is $550 per person, based on a twin-sharing cabin. Solo travelers should expect a higher rate, and suites are available upon inquiry.
Are meals included?
Yes, the cruise includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner for all four days onboard.
Can I participate if I don’t speak Chinese?
Yes, the tour provides a professional bilingual guide (Chinese and English), making it accessible for international travelers.
What are the optional excursions?
Extras include visits to White Emperor City, Fengdu Ghost City, and other cultural sites, but they are not included in the base price.
Is the tour flexible if I want to extend or shorten it?
Since the booking is non-refundable and fixed, any changes would need to be discussed directly with the provider beforehand.
Final Thoughts
This 5-day Yangtze River cruise offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and cultural insights. Its moderate price point makes it accessible for many travelers seeking an authentic and relaxed way to explore one of China’s most iconic waterways. The small-group atmosphere and knowledgeable guides help make the experience more personal and memorable.
While it’s not the most adventurous or luxurious option out there, it strikes a good balance between comfort and adventure. Perfect for those who prefer a steady pace and enjoy learning about their surroundings as they go. If you’re ready to see the three gorges, marvel at the world’s largest dam, and soak in the views of Chinese landscapes, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for.
Whether you’re on a China-specific trip or a broader Asian adventure, this Yangtze River cruise offers a scenic, cultural, and engineering-driven journey that will likely stay on your travel memories long after the boat has docked.
