Yangtze River Cruises
4.6 stars on(9,539 reviews)- Choose from 18 Yangtze tours
- 29 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
- 24/7 customer support
10 best Yangtze cruises
Compiled by
MelissaYangtze travel expert at TourRadar
- Yin and Yangtze - 15 days
- 11 Days Yangtze River Group Tour
- Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
- Majestic China & Yangtze River Cruise
- Customized China Family Trip with 5-star Cruise, Daily Start & Private Guide
- China Tour with Chengdu and Yangtze Cruise (Private Tailored)
- Yangtze River Deluxe Cruise 4D/3N from Chongqing to Yichang
- China's Historical Legacy and Modernity with Yangtze River Cruise(Private Custom)
- Shanghai & Yangtze Cruise - 16 days
- Yangtze River Deluxe Cruise 5D/4N from Yichang to Chongqing
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 Ages 15+ River Yangtze Operator On The Go Tours From $8,035
25% Off- NZ$6,026You save $2,009
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 All Ages Welcome River Yangtze Operator Top China Travel From
25% Off- NZ$3,431
Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang Downstream in 4 Days 3 Nights
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“It was good for us especially as we chose to upgrade to the Presidential suite for an extra 3000000.”
Mike, 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 Ages 18+ River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
25% Off- NZ$1,037
Majestic China & 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 Ages 35+ River Yangtze Operator Tweet World Travel From
25% Off- NZ$5,733
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 All Ages Welcome River Yangtze Operator TravelChinaGuide From
25% Off- NZ$6,957
China Tour with Chengdu and Yangtze Cruise (Private Tailored)
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“This was a great customized vacation. Odynovo is an exceptional travel company.”
GLORIA, traveled in October
The Yangtze flows from Chongqing to Yichang on this 3-night cruise featuring Fengdu Ghost City and Shennv Stream excursions. Three Gorges Dam visits combine with onboard Tai Chi and evening entertainment. Premium cabin accommodations offer balcony views throughout.
Duration 13 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chengdu, Chongqing, Yangtze, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range Ages 12+ River Yangtze Operator Odynovo From $6,256
10% Off- NZ$5,630You save $626
A 5-star vessel takes you along the legendary Yangtze River through Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. Luxury balcony cabins serve as your home while visiting Fengdu Ghost City and Three Gorges Dam. Morning Taiji and regional cuisine enhance your journey, with optional excursions to White Emperor City and Ship Lift.
Duration 4 days Destinations Chongqing, Three Gorges, Yichang Age Range Ages 18+ River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
10% Off- NZ$1,383
China's Historical Legacy and Modernity with Yangtze River Cruise(Private Custom)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“This tour is very good in creating a personalized tour based on what you want.”
Lily, traveled in August
Victoria Jenna hosts a three-day adventure through spectacular Three Gorges. The itinerary features Goddess Stream excursion, Three Gorges Dam, and engaging onboard activities from Chongqing to Yichang, with superior cabin accommodation and full board included.
Duration 11 days Destinations Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing, Yichang, Shanghai Age Range All Ages Welcome River Yangtze Operator Odynovo From $4,513
10% Off- NZ$4,061You save $451
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 Ages 15+ River Yangtze Operator On The Go Tours From $9,655
25% Off- NZ$7,241You save $2,414
A 5-star vessel carries you through the Yangtze's most dramatic sections: Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges. The route from Yichang to Chongqing includes Three Gorges Dam and Fengdu Ghost City. Daily Taiji exercises and authentic Chinese cuisine complement spectacular gorge views from your private balcony cabin.
Duration 5 days Destinations Yichang, Three Gorges, Chongqing Age Range Ages 18+ River Yangtze Operator Silk Road Trips From
25% Off- NZ$1,383
What people love about Yangtze Cruises
- Yin and Yangtze - 15 days
We were disappointed that we were given so few details of our itinerary especially that we as a group of 4 would start out as a group of 16 then half way through our 16 day tour would be travelling as a group of 4 without a national guide, and only with local guides at each stop. We were also not aware if we would travel to our next stop by train or van (coach) The not knowing caused anxiety at times, which spoilt an otherwise amazing holiday. Helene...
- China Tour with Chengdu and Yangtze Cruise (Private Tailored)
This was a great customized vacation and the tour guides who met and travelled with us were exceptional. Odynovo is an exceptional travel company.
- China's Historical Legacy and Modernity with Yangtze River Cruise(Private Custom)
This tour is very good in creating a personalized tour based on what you want.
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