Yangtze River Cruises
4.5 stars on(7,905 reviews)- Choose from 15 Yangtze tours
- 22 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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10 best Yangtze cruises
Compiled by
MelissaYangtze travel expert at TourRadar
- 11 Days Yangtze River Group Tour
- A Journey China With Yangtze River Cruise in 11 days- Private Tour
- Yin and Yangtze - 15 days
- Shanghai & Yangtze Cruise - 16 days
- MAJESTIC CHINA TOUR WITH YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE
- Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
- Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
- 14-Day Glory of China, Yangtze River Cruise & Bullet Train
- China - In the Land of the Long River
- Customized China Family Holiday with Cruise, Daily Depart & Private Guide
The Victoria USA hosts a three-night cruise through Three Gorges' dramatic landscapes. White Emperor City stands proudly overlooking Qutang Gorge, while Wu Gorge's forest-covered peaks and Goddess Stream await exploration. Shore excursions include Fengdu Ghost City and Three Gorges Dam.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range 2 to 70 year olds River Yangtze Operator Top China Travel From
- US$1,982
A Journey China With Yangtze River Cruise in 11 days- Private Tour
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“I was sent the paper work a few weeks prior to departure by our lovely online rep long Pham. Everyday from that point was so well organized and efficient.”
Amber, traveled in February
The mighty Yangtze awaits aboard Victoria ships, where you'll sail through Three Gorges and Wu Gorge. Morning Tai Chi sessions unfold on deck, while visits to Fengdu Shuanguishan National Park and Three Gorges Dam fill your days. Nights come alive with Captain's banquets and cultural shows.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yangtze, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 99 year olds Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian River Yangtze Operator Realistic Asia From $4,664
52% Off- US$2,239+$559 local paymentsYou save $2,425
Yin and Yangtze - 15 days
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“We enjoyed every minute of the tour. The guides were of an extremely high standard.”
FPalmer, traveled in November
A three-night Yangtze River cruise takes you through the Three Gorges, with stops at Jade Emperor Scenic Area and Three Gorges Dam. The stunning Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges unfold before you, while shore excursions lead to Goddess Stream. Comfortable accommodation comes standard aboard Century Star or Century Sky Cruiser.
Duration 15 days Destinations Beijing, Luoyang, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Shanghai Age Range 15 to 99 year olds River Yangtze Operator On The Go Tours From $4,415
30% Off- US$3,091You save $1,324
This 3-night luxury voyage through Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, and Wu Gorge showcases China's natural beauty. The itinerary includes Fengdu's Jade Emperor site, traditional riverside villages, and Three Gorges Dam. Comfortable cabin accommodations provide stunning views throughout.
Duration 16 days Destinations Shanghai, Beijing, Luoyang, Xi'an, Chengdu, Leshan, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge Age Range 15 to 99 year olds River Yangtze Operator On The Go Tours From $5,265
30% Off- US$3,686You save $1,579
MAJESTIC CHINA TOUR WITH YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE
5 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Excellent choices of places to go. Easy way to get an excellent overview of China.”
Glenys, traveled in October
The Yangzi Explorer welcomes you aboard for unique visits to Dachang Ancient Town and Project 816. Champagne flows at private lookout points, while world-famous Fang Weng cave restaurant offers exceptional dining. Morning Tai Chi sessions complement your sail through Qutang Gorge.
Duration 9 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Yichang Age Range 35 to 70 year olds River Yangtze Operator Tweet World Travel From
30% Off- US$2,986
Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Great experience in general. Would recommend to friends and family!”
Borislav, traveled in November
The Yangtze reveals its most spectacular section as you sail through Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. Your downstream route from Chongqing features Three Gorges Dam and either Shennong Stream or Goddess Stream. The 5-star vessel provides buffet dining and comfortable berth cabins.
Duration 4 days Destinations Chongqing, Three Gorges, Yichang Age Range up to 80 year olds River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
30% Off- US$599
Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing Upstream in 5 Days 4 Nights
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The shore excursions were great, the local tour guides were excellent, great English and very knowledgable.”
Claire, traveled in July
A 5-star upstream cruise from Yichang to Chongqing reveals China's greatest waterway. The dramatic Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges frame your 5-day journey, while shore excursions take you to Three Gorges Dam and Jade Emperor Sanctuary. Comfortable berth cabins and regional cuisine enhance your stay.
Duration 5 days Destinations Yichang, Three Gorges, Chongqing Age Range up to 80 year olds River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
30% Off- US$599
The Goddess 2 sails through Three Gorges, Wu Gorge, and Qutang Gorge along the magnificent Yangtze. Morning Tai Chi sessions enhance your journey, while visits to Three Gorges Tribe and Fengdu Ghost City await. Captain's banquets and evening entertainment complement the dramatic landscapes.
Duration 14 days Destinations Beijing, Suzhou, Wuxi, Hangzhou, Shanghai, Yichang, Three Gorges, Qutang Gorge, Shibaozhai Pagoda, Chongqing Age Range 18 to 70 year olds Ship President Cruise 8 River Yangtze Operator Intertrips From
30% Off- US$1,499+$150 upfront costs
MS Yangtse 2 carries you through 600km of spectacular gorges, including narrow Qutang Gorge and 40km Wu Gorge. The two-day itinerary features Three Gorges Dam, Fengdu village, and scenic tributary excursions in pristine nature reserves.
Duration 13 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yangtze, Shanghai Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in English, German River Yangtze Operator Paradise Reise Service From
30% Off- US$3,021
The 5-star President Ship offers private balcony cabins for your Yangtze adventure. Three Gorges Dam, Qutang Gorge, and Shennv Stream highlight the itinerary, complemented by onboard entertainment and guided excursions.
Duration 16 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Guilin, Yangshuo, Chengdu, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range 1 to 99 year olds River Yangtze Operator TravelChinaGuide Tours From
30% Off- US$4,059
What our customers ask about Yangtze River Cruises
When is the best time to take a Yangtze River cruise?
The most favorable conditions for Yangtze River cruises occur from April through October. The data from operators like Victoria Cruises and Goddess 2 shows that winter months (November-March) have limited sailings and cold temperatures. July and August bring the warmest weather and largest crowds while April and May offer mild temperatures and fewer tourists. A TourRadar traveler noted "The spring weather was perfect for viewing the Three Gorges and enjoying deck activities like morning Tai Chi."
What are the main highlights typically included in a Yangtze River cruise?
The journey takes travelers through the Three Gorges (Qutang Wu and Xiling) with stops at significant landmarks. Passengers explore the Three Gorges Dam Fengdu Ghost City and Shennv Stream during shore excursions. Ships like Victoria Anna and Goddess 2 Cruise provide balcony cabins and cultural programs. Visits to sites such as Shibaozhai Pagoda connect visitors with local traditions. As a TourRadar traveler shared: "The Three Gorges were breathtaking and the shore excursions especially to Shennv Stream gave us amazing insights into local life along the river."
What types of accommodations are available on Yangtze River cruises?
The ships operating Yangtze River cruises maintain 4-5 star standards with Victoria Cruise and Goddess 2 Cruise leading the fleet. Most rooms come with private balconies and twin beds while luxury seekers can book Executive or Presidential Suites. Land accommodations at properties like Novotel Hotels in Beijing and Holiday Inn in Shanghai bookend many cruise packages. A TourRadar traveler shared "Our balcony cabin on Victoria Cruise was comfortable and well-appointed offering spectacular views of the gorges from our private veranda."
Are shore excursions included in Yangtze River cruise packages?
The standard packages cover three main excursions: the Three Gorges Dam Shennv Stream (or Goddess Stream) and either Fengdu Ghost City or Shibaozhai Pagoda. Guests can add optional tours like the White Emperor City experience for around USD 295. According to a TourRadar traveler: "The included shore excursions were well-organized and provided excellent insights into local culture and history."
How much does a typical Yangtze River cruise cost?
Prices range from USD 799 for basic 4-day cruises to USD 5415 for extended 16-day tours that include stops in Beijing and Shanghai. The rates cover lodging meals guided excursions and onboard activities. Extra costs include optional tours and staff gratuities which average USD 25-30 per person. A TourRadar traveler noted: "While not inexpensive the value was excellent considering the quality of accommodations meals and included excursions."
What kind of dining options are available on Yangtze River cruises?
Ships serve three meals daily combining Chinese and Western dishes. Victoria Cruise offers buffet options along with special events like the Captain's Welcome Dinner and Farewell Banquet. The menus often feature regional specialties from ports along the route. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The variety of both Chinese and Western dishes at the buffets was impressive and the special themed dinners were memorable experiences."
More about Yangtze
President Cruise 8 from Intertrips