Century Cruises Chongqing to Yichang Yangzte River Tour

Traveling along China’s legendary Yangtze River is a bucket-list experience, and this 4-day cruise from Chongqing to Yichang offers a wonderful way to see some of the most dramatic scenery and cultural sites on the river. We’ve reviewed this journey based on detailed itineraries, traveler feedback, and key features to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your Asian adventure.

What we love most about this cruise is the chance to enjoy luxurious accommodations while taking in the spectacular views of the three gorges, the convenience of organized shore excursions, and the variety of onboard activities. The scenic passage through Qutang, Wu, and Shennv Gorges truly offers some of the most memorable vistas on the river.

One consideration is that the cruise is non-refundable after 25 days prior to departure, so it’s important to be confident in your travel dates. Still, this experience is ideal for those who appreciate comfort, culture, and stunning landscapes—all packed into a manageable four-day itinerary.

This tour suits travelers looking for a blend of luxury, cultural insight, and natural beauty. It’s perfect if you want to see the Three Gorges with minimal hassle while enjoying the comforts of a well-rated cruise ship.

Key Points

• Luxury accommodations with spacious rooms over 26 square meters and high-end bedding for maximum comfort
• Scenic gorges and river views from multiple vantage points onboard, including balconies and top decks
• Well-organized shore excursions to Fengdu Ghost City, Baidi City, and Shennv Stream that deepen your understanding of local culture
• Delicious onboard cuisine with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, praised for its quality and variety
• Small group size and personalized experience, with only your group participating and optional activities available
• Flexible cancellation policy allows full refund if canceled up to 25 days before departure

The Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Chongqing
The adventure begins in Chongqing, known for its vibrant cityscape and spicy cuisine. You’ll board the ship between 4:30 pm and 8:00 pm, with the onboard buffet dinner providing a relaxed start. The cruise departs around 9 pm, giving you a chance to settle into your room and take a quick tour of the ship, with some travelers noting that the ship’s modern amenities make for a comfortable introduction to river cruising.

Tip: Arriving early allows time to explore Chongqing’s lively streets and perhaps enjoy a quick meal before the cruise sets sail.

Day 2: Fengdu Ghost City & Zhong County
After breakfast, you’ll take a 2-hour trip to Fengdu Ghost City, famous for its eerie sculptures and temples representing Chinese beliefs about the afterlife. One reviewer highlighted how the site beautifully blends Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist influences—”a fascinating window into Chinese spiritual traditions.”

The afternoon offers the chance to explore Zhong County, with the option to watch “The War Fire of Three Kingdoms” show or enjoy activities onboard. This flexibility is appreciated, especially since the ship only docks if enough passengers sign up for the show, giving you control over your experience.

Day 3: Baidi City & Gorge Passages
A highlight for many is the optional visit to White Emperor City (Baidi City), a site with cultural significance and stunning river views. Some travelers choose to explore at leisure, while others purchase the optional self-funded trip.

Next, the ship passes through Qutang Gorge, famous for its towering cliffs and dramatic scenery that look as if they’ve been chiseled by hand. The 30-minute passage offers some of the best photo ops of the entire cruise.

Later, you’ll enjoy the Wuxia Gorge and a visit to Shennv Stream, where a 20 km boat trip reveals a quieter, more scenic part of the river. The reviewer noted how they loved viewing the stunning landscapes from their room balcony or the deck—”the views here are simply breathtaking.”

Day 4: Three Gorges & Yichang
Disembarkation in Yichang begins with an optional tour of the Three Gorges Dam Ship Elevator, which is a notable engineering marvel. While the tour isn’t included in the price, many travelers find it worth the extra effort.

Finally, a visit to the Three Gorges Museum offers insights into local culture, history, and the impact of the dam. This visit is well-rated for its comprehensive exhibits and engaging displays, giving a meaningful end to your river journey.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The cruise package provides a good value considering the inclusions. You get luggage handling at ports, free WiFi (although internet speed can depend on signal quality), and all meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—highlighted for their quality in reviews.

However, personal expenses like souvenirs, additional activities, or optional tours (such as Baidi City or the Three Gorges Dam elevator) are not included, so plan your budget accordingly.

The Experience from a Traveler’s Perspective

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and delicious onboard cuisine. One described the food as “good” with a variety that keeps you satisfied after a day of sightseeing. Others appreciated the comfortable, spacious rooms, which provide a welcome retreat after busy shore excursions.

The scenery is often described as stunning, with the cliffs of Qutang Gorge being particularly memorable. Several guests mentioned that viewing the gorges from the balcony or top deck made the experience even more special, especially with the clear, crisp autumn weather some recommended avoiding the summer heat.

Regarding onboard activities, the optional evening show and shore excursions add a cultural tone that enriches the trip, though some reviews noted that the busy season in China can mean crowds and boat traffic, affecting the serenity of certain sites.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Cruise

• Book early to secure your preferred ship model—Century Paragon, Victory, Oasis, or Glory—and to lock in your dates, considering the cancellation policy.
• Arrive a day early in Chongqing if possible, to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and get a feel for the area before setting sail.
• Pack layers—the weather can vary, and being on the water means breezes can be cool, especially during gorge passages.
• Reserve optional excursions in advance if you’re keen to visit Baidi City or see the Three Gorges Dam’s ship elevator at specific times.
• Bring a good camera or smartphone with a wide-angle lens for capturing the jaw-dropping scenery—these moments are truly worth it.
• Consider your dining preferences—meals are included and generally well-rated, but if you have specific dietary needs, communicate with the cruise provider ahead of time.

The Sum Up

This Century Cruises Yangtze River tour balances comfort, scenery, and cultural insights beautifully. The well-rated ships, spacious rooms, and reliable meal service create a relaxing environment after days of sightseeing. The itinerary’s focus on the Three Gorges and key cultural sites offers a meaningful glimpse into China’s natural and historical treasures.

It’s an especially good choice for travelers who want a guided, organized experience without sacrificing comfort or scenic beauty. The inclusion of optional excursions allows for personalized touches, and the overall value appears strong given the quality of accommodations and the stunning landscapes.

While the non-refundable policy requires some confidence in your plans, the experience promises memorable views, engaging cultural stops, and the chance to unwind on a luxurious vessel navigating one of the world’s most famous rivers.

FAQ

How long is the cruise from Chongqing to Yichang?
The cruise lasts approximately four days and three nights, covering key scenic and cultural sights along the Yangtze River.

What ships are available for this tour?
There are four models you can choose from: Century Paragon (departs Tuesday), Century Victory (Wednesday), Century Oasis (Saturday), and Century Glory (Sunday). Each offers similar amenities and experience.

Are meals included during the cruise?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with reviews praising the quality and variety of the onboard cuisine.

Can I cancel my booking if I change my mind?
You can cancel up to 25 days before departure for a full refund. After that, cancellations are not refundable.

What are the main sights along the route?
Key highlights include Fengdu Ghost City, Qutang Gorge, Wuxia Gorge, Shennv Stream, Baidi City, and the Three Gorges Dam area.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is available throughout the cruise, although the signal strength may vary depending on your location.

Are there optional shore excursions?
Yes, including visits to Baidi City, Fengdu Ghost City, and the Three Gorges Dam Ship Elevator. Some excursions require additional payment or sign-up onboard.

What size is the guest room?
Each room is over 26 square meters, offering spacious and comfortable accommodations with private bathrooms.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, cultural sites, and comfortable cruising. It’s a good fit for those who prefer organized, guided experiences with flexible optional activities.

This Yangtze River cruise provides a balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural exploration, and comfort, making it an excellent choice for those eager to see this iconic river in style.