Taking a river cruise along the Yangtze River offers travelers a chance to witness some of China’s most spectacular natural scenery, while enjoying comfortable accommodations and engaging excursions. This particular 5-day, 4-night journey from Yichang to Chongqing has earned a perfect 5.0 out of 5 rating from reviewers, and it’s praised for its excellent value, beautiful vistas, and friendly crew.
What makes this cruise stand out? First, the stunning views of the Three Gorges, including Qutang, Wu, and Xiling, will leave many travelers breathless. Second, the organized shore excursions provide cultural insights and memorable photo opportunities. Third, the friendly guides and crew make the journey smooth and enjoyable.
One possible consideration? It’s a fairly structured tour, so if you’re hoping for complete independence or spontaneous stops, this might feel a bit rigid. Also, the itinerary can potentially change due to weather or river conditions, which is common for river cruises.
This tour suits travelers who love nature and scenery, enjoy cultural excursions, and value a well-organized, all-inclusive experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re after a relaxing, hassle-free adventure that combines comfort with authentic sights.
Key Points
- Five-day cruise exploring the renowned Three Gorges and scenic river landscapes
- All-inclusive with meals, excursions, and accommodation, delivering great value
- Expert guides and friendly crew enhance the onboard experience
- Multiple shore excursions introduce you to local culture and history
- Comfortable cabins with options for viewing the river from your room
- Flexible sightseeing with optional trips and a lively onboard atmosphere
An In-Depth Look at the Yangtze Cruise Experience
Looking for more options in Yichang? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
The Embarkation at Yichang
The adventure begins at Yichang Maoping Wharf around 7:00 pm, with some travelers choosing to arrive earlier via the Yichang Sanxia Tourist Center shuttle bus. The embarkation process is smooth and well-organized, with most reviews highlighting friendly staff welcoming guests onboard. The half-twin cabins are clean and comfortable, offering a cozy spot after a day of travel or sightseeing.
The core of this cruise is the visit through the Three Gorges, which are widely regarded as one of China’s most breathtaking natural features. Expect to sail through Qutang Gorge, known for its dramatic cliffs; Wu Gorge, famous for its lush scenery and mysterious peaks; and Xiling Gorge, the longest of the three, often appreciated for its tranquil beauty.
Guests frequently mention the spectacular vistas—many say the views are so impressive they make the entire trip worth it. As one reviewer puts it, “The scenery was fantastic,” which is a common sentiment. The top deck bar becomes the ideal spot to sip a drink and take in the landscape, especially during late afternoons.
Shore Excursions and Cultural Highlights
Each day offers shore excursions that add layers of insight to the journey. Highlights include a visit to the Three Gorges Dam—a marvel of engineering—and the scenic Xiling Gorge Scenic Resort. The excursion to the dam includes viewing the massive infrastructure that manages the river’s flow, with some optional extensions like the Ship Lift, which many found fascinating.
On Day 3, you’ll sail through Wu Gorge and enjoy an excursion to either The Lesser Three Gorges or Shennong Stream. Reviewers mention that the optional trips are well-organized, with one stating, “The excursions were fantastic,” despite some being physically tiring. The White Emperor City is mentioned as an optional visit, adding a historical flair to the journey.
Day in Fengdu County and Local Culture
The fourth day takes you to Fengdu County, famous for its Ghost City—an intriguing, somewhat quirky site that showcases Chinese folklore and mythology—though the Ghost City itself is excluded from the included excursions. Instead, you’ll visit sites like Yuhuang Shengdi (Jade Emperor Sanctuary) or Shibao Village. Reviewers highlight that guides are helpful in translating and explaining the cultural significance, even for non-Chinese speakers.
Final Day and Disembarkation in Chongqing
The cruise concludes in Chongqing at the Chaotianmen Wharf, usually around 8:30 am. Travelers are advised to book flights or trains departing after 3:00 pm to avoid rushing. The disembarkation process is straightforward, and some travelers mention that, depending on river conditions, the docking location might shift to Wanzhou Harbour with transfers arranged.
What Travelers Love
Most reviews praise the friendly staff and guides, sharing that they went out of their way to ensure everyone felt comfortable, especially non-Chinese speakers. Many mention the delicious meals, with plentiful options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, often highlighting the variety and quality of the cuisine.
The value for money is noted as excellent, considering the included excursions, meals, and accommodations. As one reviewer happily stated, “This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” emphasizing how memorable the journey is.
Practical Tips
- Book in advance: The cruise is popular, often booked 24 days ahead.
- Arrive early for embarkation if possible, to settle in comfortably.
- Check the daily itinerary onboard, as excursions and timings may change.
- Book flights or trains departing after 3:00 pm on disembarkation day to avoid stress.
- Bring layers: weather varies, especially if it rains or during different seasons.
- Bring some cash for optional excursions or souvenirs ashore, as not all places accept cards.
The Overall Value and Who It’s For
This cruise offers exceptional scenery, cultural insights, and comfort at a very reasonable price—around $599 per person. Given the reviews praising the guides, food, and views, it’s clear that this is a well-rounded experience for travelers who want to see the iconic Three Gorges without sacrificing comfort or convenience.
It’s particularly suitable for nature lovers, history buffs, and those who prefer a relaxed, guided journey rather than independent exploration. If you value well-organized trips with friendly staff and delicious meals, this cruise ticks all those boxes.
Final Thoughts
This Yangtze River cruise from Yichang to Chongqing combines stunning natural beauty with cultural excursions and a touch of luxury. Its affordable price point makes it accessible for many, and the consistent praise from previous travelers speaks volumes about its quality.
While it’s not a trip for those seeking total independence or last-minute spontaneity, it excels as a comprehensive, comfortable, and visually impressive journey. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to China or a seasoned traveler, this cruise offers a memorable way to experience one of the country’s most iconic waterways.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the entire cruise?
The cruise lasts about five days, with four nights onboard, covering the journey from Yichang to Chongqing.
What’s included in the price?
The price covers accommodations in a half-twin cabin, three shore excursions, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), a boat guide, and service charges.
Are all excursions included?
Yes, three shore excursions are included, but the specific sites might change depending on the cruise schedule or weather conditions.
Can I book this cruise with little notice?
Most travelers book about 24 days in advance, so availability may be limited closer to the date.
Is the cruise suitable for non-Chinese speakers?
Yes, many reviews mention that guides and crew are helpful, and even though most information is in Chinese, assistance is provided for English-speaking passengers.
What should I bring?
Bring layers for changing weather, some cash for optional extras, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
Is there Wi-Fi onboard?
The tour description doesn’t specify Wi-Fi availability, so it’s best to prepare for limited or no internet access during the cruise.
What are the disembarkation times?
Disembarkation in Chongqing is typically around 8:30 am, so plan flights or trains departing after 3:00 pm.
Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with many travelers praising the quality and variety of food onboard.
Can I cancel or change my booking?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed once booked, so plan accordingly.
This Yangtze River cruise from Yichang to Chongqing offers a balanced combination of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, hassle-free way to experience China’s famous river landscapes, it delivers on value and memorable experiences.