Chongqing to Yichang: 3-Night Luxury CENTURY GLORY Yangtze River Cruise Tour

Travelers seeking an elegant, immersive journey along one of China’s most iconic rivers will find the Century Glory Yangtze River cruise an appealing option. Launched in September 2019, this modern vessel combines luxury with comfort, offering a voyage that balances scenic beauty, cultural discovery, and top-tier amenities. With a capacity of 650 passengers and a focus on quiet sophistication, it’s considered among the best cruises on the Yangtze.

What makes this cruise stand out? First, its state-of-the-art design, including the 100% silence engine and eco-friendly materials. Second, the spacious, well-appointed cabins and innovative dining options like the double-deck global restaurant. Third, the well-organized excursions to cultural landmarks and natural wonders along the river. That said, it’s not a budget trip, and some optional excursions are extra, which can add to the overall cost.

This tour appeals most to travelers who want a combination of luxury travel, culture, and stunning scenery. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a refined experience with comfortable onboard facilities while exploring some of the Yangtze’s most famous sites.

Key Points

• Luxury & Comfort: Modern, stylish cabins with notable amenities like WiFi and spacious balconies.
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: Visits to Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai Pagoda, and the Three Gorges Dam.
• Well-organized itinerary: Punctual excursions with informative guides, allowing you to maximize sightseeing.
• Authentic experiences: Options for onshore activities like Tai Chi and visits to historic sites.
• All-inclusive feeling: Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), government taxes, and some excursions included.
• Limited single supplement: Shared cabins typically, with optional upgrades available.

Introduction: Our Take on the Century Glory Yangtze Cruise

While we haven’t traveled this exact route ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of the Century Glory Yangtze cruise. It seems to strike a rare balance between modern luxury and cultural authenticity.

What we love most? The state-of-the-art silence engines, which promise a peaceful ride without the noise pollution typical of older ships. The spaciousness of the cabins, especially the availability of balconies, really enhances the experience of river cruising. And the diverse land excursions—from mysterious Fengdu Ghost City to the awe-inspiring Three Gorges—offer a genuine taste of China’s history and natural beauty.

One thing to keep in mind is that optional land tours like Fengdu Ghost City or White Emperor City come at additional costs. If you’re eager to visit these sites, budgeting extra is wise. But overall, this cruise suits travelers who appreciate refined comfort and cultural insight without sacrificing scenic grandeur.

Why Choose the Century Glory? The Top Highlights

Modern, Luxurious Cruise Ship: The Century Glory’s debut in 2019 means it’s equipped with the latest in comfort and technology. With full silence engines and environmentally friendly materials, it’s quiet and smooth—ideal for relaxation. Its global double-deck restaurant offers a unique dining space, giving you sweeping river views during meals.

Comfortable Onboard Experience: Cabins are described as spacious, with some reviews mentioning balconies and well-equipped bathrooms. WiFi and internet access are available 24/7, so you can stay connected or share your journey with friends and family.

Authentic Land Excursions: You’ll explore iconic sites such as Fengdu Ghost City, known as the “Ghost City” for its temples and mythological legends, and Shibaozhai Pagoda, a striking structure built against a sheer cliff. The shore excursions are well-paced, with some reviews emphasizing their organized and punctual nature.

Impressive Natural Scenery: The cruise navigates through the Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—considered nature’s art gallery. The views of these narrow, winding gorges are often described as breathtaking, with some travelers calling them the highlight of their trip.

Cultural Activities & Entertainment: The cruise offers cultural activities like Chinese performances, a welcome party, and traditional shows, making the onboard experience lively and engaging.

The Itinerary: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1 – Chongqing

Your journey begins at Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing, a city famous for its vibrant mix of modern skyscrapers and historic districts. Boarding is scheduled between 19:00 and 21:00, with a safety briefing and captain’s welcome reception later in the evening. Dinner is not included on this first night, but the atmosphere is relaxed, and you’re free to explore the ship.

Tip: Since departure is late in the evening, consider arriving early to explore Chongqing’s nightlife or enjoy a quick city tour beforehand.

Day 2 – Fengdu Ghost City & Shibaozhai Pagoda

Morning begins with optional Tai Chi, a calming start to the day. After breakfast, you can choose to visit the Fengdu Ghost City (extra cost), a site famous for its temples and statues linked to ghost legends, Taoist and Buddhist beliefs. Reviewers mention its demon and god statues, built during the Tang Dynasty, as adding a mystical touch to the experience.

Insight: Many travelers find Fengdu intriguing, describing it as a place where myths and history blend, although it’s an optional tour that costs extra.

In the afternoon, a shore excursion to Shibaozhai Pagoda is included. The pagoda’s architectural style against the cliff makes it look almost heavenly. It’s a magnificent structure built against a sheer rectangular cliff, with detailed carvings and scenic surroundings.

Traveler Tip: The excursion lasts about 2.5 hours, and the scenery here is a highlight for many, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Day 3 – Baidi City & Shennv Stream

In the morning, the ship stops at Baidi City, known as the “White Emperor City.” The site rests atop Baidi Hill, surrounded by temples and gates. This is a place that inspired poets and writers, with some optional tours to explore further.

Review Highlight: Visitors note Fengjie, where Baidi City is located, as “Poetry City” due to its connection with classic Chinese poetry. It’s a peaceful, historic spot with scenic views.

In the afternoon, a shore excursion to Shennv Stream (Beauty Stream) takes visitors into a primitive canyon filled with rushing waters and lush scenery. The 15 km-long stream is described as narrow and untraversed, revealing untouched natural beauty.

Tip: The water here is rushing and shallow, with some parts untraveled, making the visit feel like discovering a secret corner of nature.

Day 4 – Three Gorges Dam & Disembarkation

Your last day kicks off with breakfast before disembarking at Maoping pier in Yichang. A shore excursion to the Three Gorges Dam site is included, offering a close-up view of the world’s largest hydroelectric project.

Highlights: The dam’s impressive engineering and the scenic Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—are the final visual feast. These gorges are famous for their breathtaking beauty and cultural significance.

Traveler Feedback: The combination of natural scenery and human achievement makes this a fitting finale to your river cruise.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The package covers a deluxe standard cabin, with meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), WiFi, and government taxes. Land excursions listed in the itinerary are included, although optional tours like Fengdu Ghost City and White Emperor City incur extra charges.

Not included are transfers, personal expenses like drinks or laundry, and the optional excursions. A service charge of 200 RMB per person is payable at boarding, which is an important consideration for budgeting.

Tip: The all-inclusive feeling of meals and excursions makes this a good value, especially considering the luxury amenities onboard.

Travel Logistics & Practical Tips

Start point: Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing, a busy port with easy access to public transportation.

End point: Disembark at Maoping pier in Yichang, a city famous for its role in China’s hydroelectric history.

Timing: The cruise departs at 7:00 pm, so arriving early in Chongqing is advisable to settle in and explore a bit.

Group size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, expect a cozy and personalized atmosphere. This small group size lends itself well to meaningful interactions and a relaxed pace.

Price & Value: While the tour is listed at $0.00, it’s likely an error or placeholder; in reality, such luxury cruises tend to be premium-priced. Still, reviews highlight the value of comfort, scenery, and cultural insights for the cost involved.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently praise the luxurious, modern design of the Century Glory, with one commenting on the “stylish cabins” and “top-notch service.” The staff, especially members like Dandan, are noted for their attentiveness, making the experience feel very personalized.

The scenery is described as “breathtaking,” with many highlighting the narrow, winding gorges that showcase nature’s raw beauty. The meals receive special mention, with travelers appreciating the quality and variety, often saying they felt spoiled with superlative dining.

The organized excursions are another common theme, with reviewers emphasizing their punctuality and informative guides. Some mention that the optional tours, while extra, are worth considering if you’re interested in deeper cultural experiences.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

If you’re after a luxury river journey with top-tier amenities, superb scenery, and culture, this cruise ticks many boxes. The modern ship design and spacious cabins appeal to those who value comfort, while the carefully curated excursions allow you to glimpse China’s historic sites and natural wonders.

Travelers who appreciate organized, punctual tours will find the itinerary seamless and well-paced. The small group setting enhances intimacy and allows for meaningful interactions with guides and fellow travelers.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent exploration, the optional excursions and additional costs might be a concern. Also, the cruise’s late start and structured schedule mean it suits those who enjoy planned activities rather than spontaneous wandering.

This cruise offers a refined, scenic, and culturally rich way to experience the Yangtze River, perfect for those looking to indulge in comfort while discovering China’s iconic landscapes.

FAQ

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, WiFi is accessible 24 hours a day onboard, helping you stay connected during the cruise.

Are meals included in the price?
The package includes three breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners, providing a full culinary experience.

Can I join optional excursions?
Yes, some excursions like Fengdu Ghost City and White Emperor City are optional and incur extra charges.

What are the disembarkation details?
Disembarkation occurs at Maoping pier in Yichang, after breakfast on the final day.

Is the cruise suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely, with a maximum of 15 travelers, the cruise offers a friendly, small-group atmosphere ideal for solo adventurers.

What is the best way to get to the start point?
Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing is accessible via public transportation, and arriving early helps explore the city.

Are cabins private?
Yes, each cabin is a deluxe standard room, with options for balconies and additional amenities.

How much do the optional land excursions cost?
The exact prices aren’t specified, but they are extra and can be added on during the cruise.

What makes this cruise unique compared to others?
Its combination of luxury design, natural scenery, and cultural landmarks—especially the quiet engines and innovative onboard dining—set it apart.

To sum it up, the Century Glory Yangtze River cruise offers a balanced mix of luxury, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. It’s best suited for travelers seeking comfort and authentic experiences in a well-organized package. Whether you’re marveling at the steep cliffs of the Three Gorges or wandering through ancient temples, this journey promises memorable moments along China’s legendary river.