A Yangtze River cruise through the Three Gorges is one of China's most iconic travel experiences. Dramatic cliffs, ancient temples, and the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam — all from the comfort of a floating hotel.
Cruise Options
Standard Cruise (Chongqing → Yichang)
- Duration: 4 days, 3 nights (downstream)
- Route: Chongqing → Fengdu → Three Gorges → Three Gorges Dam → Yichang
- Price: ¥2,000-5,000 per person (depending on cabin class)
- Best for: First-timers
Upstream Cruise (Yichang → Chongqing)
- Duration: 5 days, 4 nights
- Advantage: More scenic time in the gorges (going against current = slower, more viewing)
- Price: Slightly higher
Luxury Cruise
- Price: ¥5,000-15,000+ per person
- Includes: Premium cabin, all meals, shore excursions, entertainment
- Ships: Century, Victoria, Yangtze Explorer series
What You'll See
| Day | Highlight | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Depart Chongqing | Board the ship, evening cruise begins |
| 2 | Fengdu Ghost City | Ancient temple complex on a hillside |
| 3 | Qutang Gorge + Wu Gorge | The most dramatic section |
| 3 | Shennong Stream | Small boat excursion through a tributary |
| 4 | Three Gorges Dam | World's largest hydroelectric dam |
| 4 | Arrive Yichang | Disembark, transfer to airport/train |
Best Time to Cruise
| Season | Water Level | Scenery | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (Apr-May) | Rising | Green, misty | Moderate |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | High | Lush, but hot and crowded | Peak |
| Autumn (Sep-Nov) | Best | Clear skies, red leaves | High |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Low | Bare but peaceful | Budget |
Best months: April-May and September-November.
Cabin Types
| Cabin | Features | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2 beds, window, private bath | ¥2,000-3,000 |
| Balcony | 2 beds, private balcony | ¥3,000-5,000 |
| Suite | Larger space, balcony, priority service | ¥5,000-10,000 |
| Presidential | 2 rooms, butler service | ¥10,000-20,000 |
Recommendation: Balcony cabin is worth the extra cost. The gorges are best enjoyed from your private balcony.
For booking and transport tips, see our train travel guide for getting to/from cruise ports. Plan your cruise with our AI Trip Planner.