Yichang is a prime starting point for anyone eager to experience the Yangtze River, especially with its strategic location near the legendary Three Gorges. The city’s waterfront buzzes with boats and cruises, offering travelers a chance to see China’s most iconic river landscapes up close. Whether you’re drawn to the majestic Three Gorges, intrigued by hydropower feats like the Three Gorges Dam, or craving a leisurely voyage with cultural stops, Yichang has options worth considering. Among these, the Yangtze River cruises stand out for their mix of natural beauty, engineering marvels, and cultural sites—and a few get rave reviews for combining comfort with authentic experiences.
For those wanting to explore the Three Gorges and the Dam, the Yangtze River cruise from Yichang to Chongqing offers a comprehensive five-day journey with excellent value. If you prefer a more relaxed pace with a touch of luxury, the Yichang to Chongqing Victoria Cruise balances sightseeing with comfort. For a deep dive into the region’s culture and natural serenity, the 5-day cruise to Chongqing highlights lesser-known sites like Fengdu Ghost Town. Lastly, if you’re after a top-tier, all-inclusive experience, the Yichang – Chongqing Luxury Cruise offers a luxurious way to see the Three Gorges in style.
1. Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
At number 1, this five-day, four-night cruise offers a superb balance of scenery, comfort, and value. It’s perfect if you want to experience the Three Gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—while enjoying onboard entertainment and top-notch hospitality. The cruise departs from Yichang Maoping Wharf, with an option for a free shuttle from the Yichang Sanxia Tourist Center, making logistics straightforward. The itinerary includes a visit to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project, and takes you through Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three.
What makes this cruise stand out are its included shore excursions, like the trip to the Ship Lift and the scenic Xiling Gorge Scenic Resort. The onboard guide is there to answer questions, adding an educational layer to the trip. Passengers love the value for the money, especially considering that meals, excursions, and accommodations are included. With a perfect 5-star rating from 10 reviews, many appreciate the mixture of natural beauty and comfort. The downside? The itinerary can be somewhat fixed, and travelers seeking a more personalized experience might prefer other options.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers excellent value for those wanting a comprehensive, well-organized trip through the Three Gorges with plenty of included sights.
2. 5D4N Yangtze River Cruise: Yichang to Chongqing by Victoria Cruise
At number 2, the Victoria Cruise provides a relaxed yet immersive five-day journey upstream from Yichang to Chongqing. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the best of both worlds—the modern marvels like the Three Gorges Dam and the tranquil beauty of the river’s less accessible stretches. The cruise departs from Maoping Port in Zigui, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the ship before heading into the gorge-filled waters.
This cruise is especially notable for its emphasis on leisure and scenic cruising, with a slower pace that allows you to appreciate the landscape. The itinerary includes sailing through Xiling Gorge and the chance to explore the Three Gorges Dam. Travelers appreciate the comfortable cabins and the opportunity to relax while soaking in the breathtaking views. While it only has 2 reviews, those who have traveled with Victoria praise the exceptional service and the smooth logistics, though some mention that the pace can feel too leisurely for those wanting a packed schedule.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those seeking a comfortable, unhurried cruise with stunning scenery and a good balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
3. From Yichang: 5-Day Yangtze River Cruise to Chongqing
Number 3 on our list is the Yichang to Chongqing 5-day cruise, which emphasizes a mix of natural sights and cultural highlights. This trip includes visits to the Three Gorges family, the Three Gorges Vertical Boat Lift, and the Fengdu Ghost Town—a site famous for its eerie sculptures and legends. The cruise is designed to show travelers the serenity of nature while also delving into local traditions and mythology.
While detailed reviews aren’t provided, the focus on unique sites like Fengdu makes this cruise ideal for history and culture buffs. The inclusion of stops like the Xueyu Cave and the Three Gorges Dam adds depth to a journey that balances scenic beauty with cultural storytelling. The cruise claims to offer a 5-diamond experience in its cabins, making it suitable for travelers who want a touch of luxury in their river adventure.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in a more culturally oriented cruise that still captures the stunning natural landscape, this is a strong choice.
$679 per person
4. From Yichang to Chongqing: 5-Day Cruise with Meals
Number 4 offers a relaxing sail with a focus on comfort and leisurely pace. The Century Cruises route covers all the highlights of the Yangtze River over five days, with a comfortable cabin style and all meals included. This cruise emphasizes leisure and onboard fun, making it a good fit for travelers who prefer to take their time and enjoy gourmet cuisine and scenic cruising without rushing.
The cruise explores the Three Gorges Dam and visits notable sites, while the onboard atmosphere caters to comfort and relaxation. Reviews note that the cruise provides a “great way to unwind” with a stable departure schedule year-round, making it reliable for planning. The price of around $983 reflects its luxury focus, which might be steep for some but includes all meals and excursions.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who prioritize relaxation and onboard luxury over a packed sightseeing schedule, and who want a worry-free experience with everything included.
$983 per person
5. Yichang – Chongqing Yangtze Miracle Luxury 5D4N Cruise
Topping the list in luxury and all-inclusive service, the Yangtze Miracle Luxury Cruise offers a five-star experience. With spacious 148-staterooms, gourmet cuisine, and upscale amenities, this cruise is designed for travelers who want to indulge while exploring the Three Gorges.
Included are cultural excursions like Baidi City and the Three Gorges Museum, along with top-tier onboard service—gratuities, meals, and guides all covered. The ship’s elegant design and attentive staff create an atmosphere of comfort and sophistication. Although reviews are not yet available, the focus on luxury makes it appealing for travelers seeking a special treat, especially couples or anyone celebrating a special occasion.
Bottom Line: If your priority is luxury and a seamless, all-inclusive experience, this cruise delivers the best in comfort and style.
$719 per person
How to Choose Your Yangtze River Cruise
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, travel style, and interest areas. For a comprehensive, performance-focused journey with excellent value, the Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing is hard to beat. Those who prefer a luxurious, all-inclusive experience will find the Yichang – Chongqing Luxury Cruise ideal, especially for special occasions.
If you want a slow-paced trip with a cultural twist, the Yichang to Chongqing 5-day cruise provides meaningful stops like Fengdu. For travelers seeking relaxation combined with sightseeing, the Victoria Cruise hits that sweet spot.
Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates and cabins. Consider your comfort level, interests, and how much you want to see and do along the river. All these cruises offer something unique, so pick the one that best matches your travel style.
Yichang’s boat tours offer a range of experiences, from educational and cultural explorations to luxurious indulgence. Whether you’re eager to marvel at the engineering of the Three Gorges Dam or relax aboard an elegant ship, the options available make it possible to tailor your trip to your desires. For many, a Yangtze River cruise is a highlight of their China visit—so plan ahead, pick your favorite, and prepare for an unforgettable adventure on one of the world’s greatest rivers.