Century Cruises Chongqing to Yichang Yangzte River Tour

A 4-Day Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang: What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising along one of China’s most legendary waterways, the Century Cruises Chongqing to Yichang tour offers an inviting blend of comfort, culture, and breathtaking scenery. For around $840 per person, you can spend 4 days and 3 nights aboard a luxury cruise ship, with options like the Century Paragon, Victory, Oasis, or Glory departing weekly. From the vibrant city of Chongqing to the historic city of Yichang, this journey takes in the famous Three Gorges, the eerie Fengdu Ghost City, and the scenic Wuxia Gorge, all while providing a comfortable, high-end onboard experience.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are the spacious rooms—each over 26 square meters with high-end bedding—and the diverse shore excursions, which bring the landscape and history of the river to life. The included meals serve up plentiful Chinese dishes, and WiFi keeps you connected, though the signal can be patchy in remote areas. One consideration is that the tour is non-refundable once booked, so it’s best to be sure about your plans before committing.

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a comfortable, well-organized way to see the iconic scenery of the Yangtze River without sacrificing quality. If you enjoy cultural sites, spectacular river views, and a touch of luxury, you’ll find this journey a rewarding experience.

Key Points

• Comfortable Accommodation: Spacious rooms over 26 sqm with private bathrooms and high-end bedding.
• Scenic Highlights: Pass through the famous Qutang, Wuxia Gorge, and visit Fengdu Ghost City and Shennv Stream.
• Cultural Insights: Opportunities to explore Baidi City and learn about local traditions.
• Flexible Travel Dates: Multiple ship options, with weekly departures, allowing some planning flexibility.
• All-Inclusive Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included, offering authentic Chinese cuisine.
• Strict Cancellation Policy: Full refund only available if canceled more than 25 days before departure.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting Point in Chongqing

Your adventure begins in Chongqing, a bustling metropolis known for its spicy hotpot and vibrant night markets. You’ll board the cruise between 4:30 PM and 8:00 PM, giving you a chance to settle in before the ship departs around 9:00 PM. The embarkation buffet is a good way to fuel up after your journey. We recommend arriving a bit earlier to explore the lively port area or enjoy a quick stroll along the riverbank.

Navigating the First Day

Once onboard, you’ll have time to familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and relax. The safety briefing and a leisurely cruise around the vessel set a calm tone for the days ahead. The views from the deck are already promising, with lights flickering over the cityscape, hinting at the scenic journey to come.

Day Two: Mysteries of Fengdu Ghost City and Evening Entertainment

The highlight of the morning is a 2-hour excursion to Fengdu Ghost City, famous for its intricate carvings, statues, and temples dedicated to ghosts, spirits, and the afterlife. The site masterfully blends Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, offering a fascinating glimpse into Chinese traditions about death and the supernatural. One reviewer mentions, “The culture of ghosts and Chinese traditions” as a key aspect of this stop.

In the afternoon, the ship docks at Zhong County for a chance to relax or attend the optional War Fire of the Three Kingdoms Show, which costs extra. Many travelers enjoy these cultural performances, although some choose to stay onboard for a quieter evening.

Day Three: The Majestic Gorges and Shennv Stream

The third day is packed with scenery.

• Baidi City: You can visit the White Emperor City, a site of historic importance and stunning views, or choose to explore at your leisure. The optional self-funded trip departs around 8:30 AM.

• Qutang Gorge: At 11:00 AM, the ship passes through the Qutang Gorge, renowned for its towering cliffs that seem to have been sliced by a giant knife. Expect jaw-dropping, dramatic scenery—“cliffs on both sides as if cut by a knife,” as one reviewer put it.

• Wuxia Gorge: At 1:30 PM, the boat glides through Wuxia Gorge, offering more stunning vistas. You may want to enjoy these views from your room balcony or on the top deck.

• Shennv Stream: The afternoon includes a small boat ride on Shennv Stream, a tranquil 20-kilometer stretch with lush surroundings. It’s a highlight for many, providing a more intimate, nature-focused experience.

Day Four: The Iconic Three Gorges and Yichang

Disembarking at Maoping pier in Yichang, you can opt to visit the Three Gorges Dam Ship Elevator, an engineering marvel, though details aren’t included in the basic itinerary.

In the morning, the tour visits the Three Gorges Museum, offering context about the region’s culture and history. Travelers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the chance to deepen their understanding of the area’s significance.

Overall Value and Practicalities

The cruise offers balanced value—comfy rooms, delicious meals, and diverse excursions—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The group discounts also make this a good option for families or travel groups.

However, be aware that cancellations are strictly non-refundable once you’re past the 25-day window. Flexibility is limited if your plans shift, so book with confidence.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This cruise is perfect for those who want a relaxed, comfortable way to see the Three Gorges and experience Chinese river culture. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic beauty, cultural sites, and onboard comfort. It’s also ideal if you want a guided experience with included meals and a set itinerary, saving you the trouble of organizing transport and accommodations on your own.

If you’re a first-time visitor to the Yangtze, this trip provides a rundown without the need for complex planning. The reviews mention good food, friendly guides, and stunning views, making it a memorable and immersive experience.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Century Cruises Chongqing to Yichang tour offers a well-rounded package that balances comfort, culture, and scenery. The spacious cabins and delicious meals elevate the experience beyond basic river cruises, while the shore excursions bring the landscape and history alive. The fact that many reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and beautiful vistas suggests you’re likely to come away with a deeper appreciation of this iconic waterway.

This cruise suits travelers who want a stress-free, immersive adventure on the Yangtze—appreciating both the natural wonders and the cultural relics that make this river legendary. Just remember that once booked, cancellations are strict, so ensure your plans are firm before you commit.

For those seeking a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich journey, this cruise delivers a memorable experience—one that captures the essence of China’s most famous river.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this cruise?
The cruise costs about $840 per person, which includes comfortable accommodation, meals, and some shore excursions. It’s a good value considering the length and inclusions.

How long is the cruise?
It lasts approximately 4 days and 3 nights, allowing plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, explore cultural sites, and relax onboard.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included throughout the cruise, featuring Chinese dishes. The quality is generally well-reviewed.

Can I cancel after booking?
No, cancellations are non-refundable once you’re within 25 days of departure. Be sure your plans are firm before booking.

What are the departure days?
The ships depart weekly: Century Paragon on Tuesdays, Century Victory on Wednesdays, Century Oasis on Saturdays, and Century Glory on Sundays.

Is WiFi available onboard?
Yes, free WiFi is provided throughout the cruise, but the internet speed can vary depending on the location and signal strength.

Whether you’re after stunning natural scenery, cultural insights, or simply a comfortable way to cruise the Yangtze, this tour ticks many boxes. Just remember to book early, be prepared for the scenic crowds, and enjoy the ride through one of China’s most iconic landscapes.