From
USD 673
The Yangtze 1 is a prestigious luxury cruise ship, renowned for offering an exclusive and unparalleled journey along China's iconic Yangtze River. Launched in 2006 and recently refurbished in 2024, this ship combines modern amenities with a rich history of hosting international dignitaries and celebrities. Operated by Changjiang Cruises, the Yangtze 1 is part of China's State Guest Fleet, having served as a venue for high-profile events and welcomed prominent political figures from around the world.
As the only Yangtze River cruise ship capable of passing through both the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift - the world's largest ship lift - and Gezhouba Dam, the Yangtze 1 offers a truly unique cruising experience. Passengers are treated to sweeping, panoramic views of the Three Gorges, including the extraordinary Xiling Gorge, which is sailed directly through by the Yangtze 1, a feature unavailable on most other vessels.
Why Choose Yangtze 1 Cruise?
Ship Name: Yangtze 1 | Rating: 5-star |
Owned by: Changjiang Cruises | Itinerary: Chongqing ⇌Yichang |
Maiden Voyage: 2006 | Refurbished: 2024 |
Total Cabins: 109 | Maximum Passenger Capacity: 222 |
Cabin Types: 4 | Restaurants: 2 |
Elevators: 1 | Bars and Cafés: Yes |
English-speaking Services: √ | Gross Tonage: 5,750T |
Swimming Pool: √ | Ship Dimensions: 103.8m*16m |
Kids’ Club: √ | Decks: 5 |
Observation Deck: √ | Speed: 26km/h |
Complimentary Wi-Fi: √ | Air-conditioning System: Central |
Starting Date | Route | Price From | Book Now |
---|---|---|---|
Jan (2025) | |||
Jan.27, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jan.31, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Feb (2025) | |||
Feb.04, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Feb.08, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Mar (2025) | |||
Mar.06, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Mar.10, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Mar.14, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Mar.18, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Mar.22, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Mar.26, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Mar.30, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Apr (2025) | |||
Apr.03, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Apr.07, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Apr.11, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Apr.15, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Apr.19, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Apr.23, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Apr.27, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
May (2025) | |||
May.01, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
May.05, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
May.09, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
May.13, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
May.17, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
May.21, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
May.25, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
May.29, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jun (2025) | |||
Jun.02, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jun.06, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jun.10, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jun.14, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jun.18, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jun.22, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jun.26, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jun.30, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jul (2025) | |||
Jul.04, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jul.08, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jul.12, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jul.16, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jul.20, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Jul.24, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Jul.28, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Aug (2025) | |||
Aug.01, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Aug.05, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Aug.09, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Aug.13, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Aug.17, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Aug.21, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Aug.25, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Aug.29, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Sep (2025) | |||
Sep.02, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Sep.06, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Sep.10, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Sep.14, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Sep.18, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Sep.22, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Sep.26, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Sep.30, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Oct (2025) | |||
Oct.04, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Oct.08, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Oct.12, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Oct.16, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Oct.20, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Oct.24, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Oct.28, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Nov (2025) | |||
Nov.01, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Nov.05, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Nov.09, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Nov.13, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Nov.17, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Nov.21, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Nov.25, 2025 | Chongqing to Yichang | $673 | Book |
Nov.29, 2025 | Yichang to Chongqing | $673 | Book |
Notes:
DAY | Time | Sample Itinerary | Meals |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | |||
16:00 | Boarding starts at Chongqing Chaotianmen Port | Dinner | |
21:30 | Departure from Chongqing Chaotianmen Port | ||
Day 2 | |||
07:00-07:30 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
07:30-08:30 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
09:00-11:30 | Shore Excursion - Fengdu Ghost City (includes an uphill cable car ride) | ||
12:00-13:00 | Lunch buffet on board | ||
15:00-16:00 | Cultural activity: Lecture at the Yangtze River Story Hall | ||
17:30-18:00 | Captain's welcome cocktail | ||
18:00-19:00 | Dinner Buffet on board | ||
Day 3 | |||
06:30-07:00 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
07:00-08:00 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
08:00-11:30 | Shore Excursion -White Emperor City | ||
12:00-12:30 | Cruising through the spectacular Qutang Gorge | ||
12:30-13:30 | Lunch Buffet on board | ||
14:00-18:00 | Shore Excursion - Shennv Sky Road | ||
18:30-19:30 | Dinner Buffet on board | ||
20:30-21:00 | Cultural activity: Lecture on the Century Project - Ship Lift | ||
Day 4 | |||
06:30-07:00 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
|
07:00-07:30 | Cruising through Wu Gorge, passing Shennv Peak | ||
07:30-08:30 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
09:00-11:30 | Shore Excursion - Shennong Stream | ||
12:00-13:00 | Lunch Buffet on board | ||
15:00-18:00 | Shore excursion - Three Gorges Dam Site | ||
18:30-19:00 | Cruise passes by Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift | ||
19:00-20:30 | Captain's Farewell Dinner | ||
20:30-21:30 | Cruise Variety Show | ||
21:00 | Dock at Sandouping Dock | ||
Day 5 | |||
06:30-07:00 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise | Breakfast | |
07:00-08:00 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
08:00-09:30 | Cruise passes through the eastern section of Xiling Gorge | ||
10:00-11:00 | Cruise passes by Gezhou Dam | ||
12:00 | Ship disembarkation at Yichang No.9 Dock |
Note:
DAY | Time | Sample Itinerary | Meals |
---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | 19:00 | Board the ship at Yichang No.9 Dock | Dinner |
Day 2 | 06:00 | The cruise sets sail | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
06:30-07:00 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise | ||
07:00-08:00 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
07:00-08:00 | Sail through Gezhou Dam, enter the eastern section of Xiling Gorge | ||
09:30-12:30 | Shore excursion - The Tribe of Three Gorges | ||
12:30-13:30 | Lunch Buffet on board | ||
14:00-17:30 | Shore excursion - Three Gorges Dam Site | ||
18:00-18:30 | Captain's welcome cocktail party | ||
18:30-19:30 | Dinner Buffet on board | ||
20:30-21:30 | Cruise passes by Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift | ||
Day 3 | 06:30-07:00 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise on board | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
07:00-07:45 | Cruising through Wu Gorge, passing Shennv Peak | ||
07:30-08:30 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
09:00-12:30 | Shore excursion - Lesser Three Gorges | ||
12:30-14:00 | Lunch Buffet on board | ||
14:30-15:00 | Cruising through the spectacular Qutang Gorge | ||
15:30-18:30 | Shore excursion - White Emperor City | ||
20:00-21:00 | Cruise Variety Show | ||
Day 4 | 06:30-07:00 | Morning coffee/tea and Tai Chi exercise on board | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
07:00-08:00 | Breakfast Buffet on board | ||
10:00-11:00 | Cultural activity: Lecture at the Yangtze River Story Hall | ||
12:00-13:00 | Lunch Buffet on board | ||
13:30-17:00 | Shore excursion - Fengdu Ghost City (includes an uphill cable car ride) | ||
18:00-19:00 | Dinner Buffet on board | ||
Day 5 | 07:00-08:00 | Breakfast Buffet on board | Breakfast |
08:30 | Ship disembarkation at Chongqing Chaotianmen Port |
Note:
Cabin Size: 18sq.m
Beds: Twin
Private Balcony: Yes
Location: 1/2/3/F
Bathroom: Shower
Cabin Size: 23 sq.m
Beds: Double
Private Balcony: Yes
Location: 2F
Bathroom: Shower
Cabin Size: 24 sq.m
Beds: Double
Private Balcony: Yes
Location: 4F
Bathroom: Shower
Cabin Size: 52 sq.m
Beds: Double
Private Balcony: Yes
Location: 2F
Bathroom: Bathtub and Shower
Cabin Accommodation: A room with a private bathroom and balcony (available on most luxury ships). The price is based on a standard twin-sharing cabin.
Buffet Meals Listed in the Itinerary: Meals include Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), and Dinner (D). Typically, no meals are provided on the day of embarkation, and only breakfast is included on the day of disembarkation. Note: Some Welcome Dinners or Farewell Dinners may not be buffet meals.
Shore Excursions Listed in the Itinerary: Includes transportation to and from the sites, entrance tickets, and English-speaking local guide service. Exclusions: Cable car fee at Fengdu Ghost City (20–35 RMB/person) and sightseeing bus fee at Three Gorges Dam (10 RMB/person).
Onboard Activities offered by Ship for free, such as Welcome Party, Farewell Party, onboard lectures and demonstrations, Tai Chi classes, and more.
Visa Costs: The cost of obtaining a visa is not included.
Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is not included. It is strongly recommended to purchase insurance through your travel agent, tour operator, or insurance company.
Optional Shore Excursions: Optional excursions (listed in the itinerary) with English-speaking guides are not included.
Optional Onboard Activities and Personal Expenses: Additional services like bar purchases, laundry, telephone, internet, medical services, gift shop items, spa/beauty treatments, and tips are not included.
Air and Ground Transportation: Costs such as flights, airport taxes, train tickets, taxi fares, porter services, and any transportation before check-in or after check-out from the ship are excluded.
Other Fees Not Mentioned: Room upgrades, single supplements, and additional requests are not included in the standard package.
You can choose to take a Flight or High-Speed Train to reach or depart the ports of your Yangtze River Cruise Ship. But do double-check if the arrival time/depart time of your flight tickets or train tickets are flexible enough to connect your destinations in China. For example, if you want to join the optional activities on the Yangtze River Cruise Tour like Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift, you must book your flight/train ticket that departs later than a certain time (or you have to cancel your Ship Lift trip), so you can catch your flight/train smoothly. Do double-check the timetable with us to ensure your ticket times as different cruise ships may have different routes/itineraries during different seasons or years.
Some Yangtze River Cruise Ship will include the diner of the Boarding day, but some of the Ships do not. So double-check if you need to have dinner first before Boarding your Yangtze River Cruise Ship. Do double check with us for the dinner things about the Cruise Ship you choose as different ships may have different policies for each itinerary of each year/season.
Different Yangtze River Port and Yangtze River Cruise Ship companies have different conditions and services, so do double check with us for the ship/lines you choose.
For Chongqing Port, if you reach very early before boarding your ship. You can store luggage at Raffles City (via WeChat QR code) or the Chaotianmen Dock ticket office (no WeChat required). Chaotianmen Dock features many stone steps, which can be challenging if you’re traveling alone or carrying heavy luggage. You can hire local porters (who speak Chinese only) to help with your luggage which cost starts at 10 RMB per item. You can contact us to book a Luggage Handling Service (guided service) at Chaotianmen Dock of Chongqing.
For Yichang Port, you only need to arrange transportation from the airport to either Yichang East Station or the Sanxia Tourist Center. Both locations are conveniently situated in the city center, not far from Yichang Museum, and offer luggage storage facilities. You can contact us to book guided service for tours around Yichang.
Arrive at the port at least 2 hours early for a smooth boarding process. Confirm your departure port in advance (Chongqing or Yichang).
Understand the Cruise Schedule from meal time to onboard activities (e.g., parties, or Tai Chi sessions) and shore excursions (e.g., Three Gorges Dam, Fengdu Ghost City). Listen to announcements on your ship or check the daily schedule that is put into your room so you don’t miss activities.
The Yangtze River Cruise only includes the tour guide service on the ship for shore excursions. Shore excursions often involve walking and stairs. Follow the guide’s instructions and stick to the group to avoid getting lost. If you need a guide to help you with the service before boarding and after leaving the ship, do feel free to contact us.
Some cruises charge mandatory service fees (e.g., $25–$50 per person). Check if this is included in your booking. Bring cash or a credit card for additional costs like drinks, spa services, or optional excursions. Currency Exchange: Obtain some Chinese Yuan (CNY) before your trip for tips, souvenirs, and purchases at smaller vendors. There are Photographers from the ship who take photos during your trip, you can buy photos from them if you like.
Wi-Fi availability differs across cruise ships. While most provide Wi-Fi, speeds and access can vary. Some offer connectivity in common areas or cabins, while others have limited or no service. Consider pre-downloading maps, books, and entertainment. Keep in mind that Wi-Fi may be complimentary or require payment. Remember, it's your vacation - why not embrace a break from the online world?
Most modern Yangtze River cruise ships are equipped with central air conditioning. These Centralized systems provide consistent cooling throughout the ship, including cabins, public areas, and restaurants. While centrally controlled, many cabins will have individual controls allowing passengers to adjust the temperature to their preference. Please Note: The specific air conditioning system may vary slightly between different cruise lines and ship models.
Choose Route & Itinerary: There are cruise ships for downstream (Chongqing to Yichang; 4 Days; Most Popular), upstream (Yichang to Chongqing; 5 Days), or unique routes (1-11 Days). Compare itineraries, focusing on ports of call, duration, and the balance of cruising time and shore excursions.
Cabin Selection: Choose a cabin that suits your needs and budget. Consider factors like room size, bed size, room location (left side, right side, floor), balcony, Bathroom, and accessibility features.
Choose the Right Season: Consider the best time to visit based on weather, river conditions, and your preferences for scenery.
Choose your Trip Date & Book in Advance: Different cruise ships and lines depart on different dates. Popular cruises can be booked quickly during peak season, holidays, or special events.
Spring and Autumn are the best times to do a Yangtze River Cruise Tour.
Spring (Apri.–May): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make the scenery picturesque.
Autumn (Sept.–Oct.): Clear skies, crisp air, and colorful foliage enhance the experience.
Avoid summer (Jun.–Aug.) due to heat and humidity, and major Chinese holidays like Golden Week (Oct. 1–7), when cruises can be crowded and prices higher.
The must-see attractions along the Yangtze River cruise route include the Three Gorges (Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Xiling Gorge), Three Gorges Dam, Shennv Stream (or Shennong Stream; or Lesser Three Gorges), Fengdu Ghost City (or Shuangui Mountain).
Spend time on the deck or your balcony to soak in the stunning river landscapes. Early mornings and sunsets are particularly magical.
Popular Shore Excursions the ship may include:
Optional Shore Excursions the ship may provide (self-pay):
Optional Activities Onboard:
Tai Chi Classes: Learn the gentle art of Tai Chi from experienced instructors.
Mahjong Games: Participate in traditional Chinese Mahjong games with fellow passengers.
Cooking Demonstrations: Learn to prepare authentic Chinese dishes from the ship's chefs.
Relaxation & Spa Treatments: Indulge in a relaxing massage or other spa treatments.
Important Notes:
Shore excursion options (included or self-pay) vary by cruise line and itinerary. Book excursions in advance, especially during peak season. Consider your interests (history, culture, nature, adventure) and fitness level (walking distances, stair climbing) when choosing excursions. Be punctual for organized shore excursions and return to the ship on time. Inquire about accessibility for passengers with limited mobility.
This list provides a general overview, need to double-check for the ship you choose.
Cruises offer buffet-style meals featuring Chinese and Western dishes. Try local delicacies like freshwater fish and regional specialties.
Familiarize yourself with the dining options onboard. Inform the staff of any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance.
As an expert of Yangtze River Cruise Tours, I can assure you that a Yangtze River cruise is suitable for travelers of all ages, including kids and elders. The cruise offers a relaxed and scenic way to explore the region, with onboard activities and shore excursions catering to different interests and physical abilities.
For Kids: Educational experiences, cultural activities, and family-friendly cabins.
For Elderly Travelers: Relaxed itineraries, onboard accessibility (elevators, ramps), and medical support.
Most luxury ships are wheelchair accessible, with:
Elevators connecting decks.
Wide corridors and ramps.
Accessible cabins (available on request).
However, some shore excursions which involve walking or stairs may not be fully accessible, so plan accordingly.
Yes, a Yangtze River Cruise is very safe. Cruise operators prioritize passenger safety and comply with strict maritime safety standards. Most luxury Yangtze River cruise ships have medical facilities onboard, including a doctor or medical staff who can handle minor health issues. Here are the key factors ensuring a safe journey:
Calm Waters: The Yangtze River has calm waters, making it ideal for cruising. There are no rough seas, so the risk of accidents or seasickness is minimal. Additionally, the Cruise Ships we chose mainly run between Chongqing and Yichang (before Three Gorges Dam) which are part of the calmest water area of the Yangtze River.
Modern Ships: Most Yangtze River cruise ships are modern and built with advanced safety features, including fire detection systems, life rafts, and emergency evacuation procedures.
Trained Crew: Crew members are professionally trained in safety protocols and emergency response. Safety drills are conducted regularly.
Life Jackets & Emergency Equipment: Life jackets are available in all cabins and public areas. Emergency exits and evacuation plans are clearly marked throughout the ship.
Stable Conditions: The river’s calm and predictable flow ensures a smooth and stable journey, even during rainy seasons.
Onboard Clinics: Ships are equipped with basic medical clinics for first aid and minor medical needs.
Medical Staff: There is usually a doctor or trained nurse on board to assist with common ailments like motion sickness, minor injuries, or sudden health concerns.
Limitations: Medical facilities on ships are basic and not equipped for major emergencies or surgeries. Passengers with serious medical conditions should bring their medications and consult their doctor before traveling.
Emergency Support: In case of a severe medical emergency, the ship can arrange for evacuation to the nearest hospital, but this may take time depending on the ship’s location.
Bring Medications: Ensure travelers carry any prescribed medications or health supplies they need for the duration of the trip.
Inform the Cruise Staff: Notify the cruise in advance if any passenger has a specific medical condition or mobility issue.
Travel Insurance: Recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation.
Hydration & Rest: Encourage passengers to stay hydrated and take breaks during shore excursions, especially elderly travelers.
Pack Wisely: Bring comfortable clothing suitable for both onboard activities and shore excursions. Here are more details:
Most luxury cruise staff speak basic English, but having a translation app or knowing a few Chinese phrases can be helpful.
The crew members are there to assist you. Don't hesitate to ask questions or seek help if needed during your cruise.
In the event that you need to cancel your trip, please ensure that you submit a written cancellation request. The calculation of cancellation fees will begin from the date we receive your written request.
Tours/Activities:
Overall Rating
Excellent
Itinerary
Excellent
Guide
Excellent
Transport
Excellent
Accommodation
Excellent
Food
Excellent
Tour Operator
Excellent
Hans
Australia
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Chengdu/Sichuan, Guilin/Yangshuo, YangtzeRiver
Date of Experience: May 01, 2024
Tour Customized by: Steven
You May be Interested in This Tour: Customized Tour
Sophie
Czech Republic
Destination(s): Beijing, Xian, YangtzeRiver
Date of Experience: Apr 20, 2024
Tour Customized by: Rex
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Jacob
Basrah, Iraq
Destination(s): YangtzeRiver
Date of Experience: Apr 25, 2024
Tour Customized by: Victor
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