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A Comparison of the Budget Yangtze River Cruise Ships
When it comes to experiencing the stunning Three Gorges and the grandeur of the Yangtze River, 6 cheap Yangtze River cruise ships - Victoria Katarina (美维凯蒂), Century Paragon (世纪神话), and Yangtze Gold 3/5/6/8 (黄金3/5/6/8号) - offer wonderful journeys with their unique features and exceptional services.
Here’s a quick look at each vessel to help you choose the perfect fit for your adventure.
| Ship Name | Prices for 2025 | Launch | Refurbished | Capacity | Cabins | Cabin Sizes (㎡) | Decks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yangtze Gold 3 | From $412 | 2012 | / | 570 | 216 | 16-139 | 6 |
| Yangtze Gold 5 | From $412 | 2012 | / | 570 | 216 | 16-139 | 6 |
| Yangtze Gold 6 | From $412 | 2012 | / | 570 | 216 | 16-139 | 6 |
| Yangtze Gold 8 | From $412 | 2013 | 2023 | 446 | 190 | 13-135 | 6 |
| Victoria Katarina | From $415 | 2003 | 2018 | 264 | 132 | 19.11-60.3 | 6 |
| Century Paragon | From $456 | 2013 | / | 400 | 196 | 28-106 | 6 |
Note: The information in the above table is for reference only. Due to occasional remodeling of the cruise ship, its parameters, style, facilities, etc. may change and the actual situation shall prevail.
Tips for Choosing a Cheap Yangtze River Cruise Ship
- Older Ships with Basic Facilities Offer Lower Prices: The cost of a Yangtze River cruise largely depends on factors like the ship's age and facilities. Generally, older ships with more basic facilities tend to have significantly lower prices.
- Off-Season Travel Provides Budget-Friendly Options: Traveling during the off-season, particularly in the winter months from December to February, can result in even lower prices.
No. 1-4 Yangtze Gold 3/5/6/8 (黄金3/5/6/8号) - The Cheapest Yangtze River Cruise
- Managed by: Yangtze Gold Cruises
- Launch: 2012-2013
- Refurbished: 2023
- Routes: Chongqing to Yichang; Yichang to Chongqing
Yangtze Gold 3/5/6/8, managed by Yangtze Gold Cruises, is the most budget-friendly option for exploring the iconic Three Gorges. Launched between 2012 and 2013, with Yangtze Gold 8 refurbished in 2023, these ships provide a modern, comfortable, and affordable cruising experience.
The Most Budget Yangtze River Cruise
Yangtze Gold 3/5/6/8 stands out as the most affordable option among the budget-friendly Yangtze River cruises listed in this article.
Despite its lower price point, it offers reliable service, comfortable accommodations, and an authentic cruising experience, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking value without compromising quality.
Yangtze Gold 8 Are Newly Refurbished in 2023
Yangtze Gold 8 are among the newest ships in the Yangtze Gold fleet, refurbished in 2023 for a modern, comfortable, and budget-friendly cruising experience.
These ships combine affordability with high standards, making them perfect for travelers seeking value without compromising quality.
Yangtze Gold 3, 5 & 6 Are Large Ships with a Tonnage of 17,000
Yangtze Gold 3, 5, and 6 are among the largest ships in the fleet, boasting a tonnage of 17,000.
For example, Yangtze Gold 3 is 149.96 meters long and 24 meters wide, with a total area of 18,187 square meters. Each ship has 216 cabins, ranging from standard rooms to presidential suites, accommodating up to 570 passengers.
Yangtze Gold 8 are slightly smaller, with a tonnage of 11,250 and a maximum capacity of 446 passengers.
Each ship features a separate surfing swimming pool, providing a refreshing and unique onboard experience.
Perfect for Conferences and Events
Equipped with independent conference rooms, Yangtze Gold cruise ships are an excellent choice for business meetings, corporate events, or private gatherings.
The professional facilities ensure a seamless experience for groups looking to combine work with the scenic beauty of the Yangtze River.
Exclusive Shore Excursions
In addition to classic attractions such as Fengdu Ghost City, White Emperor City, the War of the Three Kingdoms performance, the Three Gorges Tribe performance, the Three Gorges, and the Three Gorges Dam, Yangtze Gold Cruises offer exclusive excursions. Highlights include:
- Shuanggui Mountain (双桂山)
- Lesser Three Gorges (小三峡)
- Mini Three Gorges (小小三峡)
- Dachang Ancient Town (大昌古镇)
A Wealth of Onboard Activities
Yangtze Gold 3/5/6/8 immerses you in Chinese culture with a variety of engaging activities, such as:
- Chinese Costume Shows: Experience traditional Chinese fashion through live performances.
- Calligraphy and Painting Lectures: Learn the basics of Chinese artistic traditions.
- Tai Chi Classes: Start your mornings with this calming and health-enhancing practice.
These onboard activities make the cruise not just a scenic journey but a cultural and educational experience.
No. 5 Victoria Katarina (美维凯蒂) - The Only Yangtze Ship with American Management
- Managed by: Victoria Cruises
- Launch: 2004
- Refurbished: 2018
- Routes: Chongqing to Yichang; Yichang to Chongqing
Managed by Victoria Cruises, Victoria Katarina combines American-style hospitality with excellent value. First launched in 2004 and refurbished in 2018, it offers a comfortable, refined, and affordable option for Yangtze River travelers.
Despite its competitive price, it delivers a top-notch cruising experience.
Reputable American-Style Services
Victoria Cruises, including Katarina, stands out for its American-style management, providing outstanding service with an English-speaking crew. Perfect for international travelers, especially those from the Americas and Europe, this ship ensures seamless communication and comfort.
Diverse Onboard Activities
Enjoy enriching activities such as live shows of Chinese kung fu or Chinese opera, onboard lectures about the Three Gorges, entertainment activities such as Mahjong, Chinese brush painting and calligraphy, morning Tai Chi exercises, dancing and karaoke.
In addition, Victoria Katarina is equipped with a gym and spa for your daily fitness workouts and relaxation.
No. 6 Century Paragon (世纪神话) - Offer the Most Spacious Cabins in the Budget Cruises
- Managed by: Century Cruises
- Launch: 2013
- Routes: Chongqing to Yichang; Yichang to Chongqing
Operated by Century Cruises, Century Paragon has been a standout since its launch in 2013. It combines Chinese and Western architectural elements with spacious cabins and state-of-the-art facilities, catering to travelers who appreciate elegance and comfort.
Why choose Century Paragon? Check out what Century Paragon has to offer below.
Spacious Cabins and Public Areas
Century Paragon has a lower passenger capacity compared to similarly sized Century Cruises ships such as Century Glory (世纪荣耀), Century Victory (世纪凯歌) and Century Oasis (世纪绿洲).
Also, the Century Paragon is bigger than other cheap Yangtze River cruise ships. It has more spacious cabins and public spaces.
This allows for a relaxing and comfortable environment, allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking views and onboard experience.
Rich Onboard Amenities
Indulge in a variety of entertainment facilities, including a cinema, swimming pool, sauna, gym, karaoke, bar, boutique shop, souvenir shop, reading room, and beauty salon. Whether you want to relax or stay active, there’s something for everyone.
Explore Yangtze River Cruise with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT)
Choosing the right cruise for your Yangtze River Cruise Tour is essential, and Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) is here to make your planning stress-free. With years of experience curating China tours, AOT offers tailored itineraries and seamless arrangements to ensure you enjoy the best of the Yangtze River at an unbeatable price.
From arranging your transportation before boarding, like traveling from Chongqing train stations to Chaotianmen Dock or Chongqing Jiangbei Airport to Chaotianmen Dock, to booking the perfect budget cruise, AOT guarantees an enjoyable and hassle-free experience.
Choose the cheapest Yangtze River cruise that fit your budget now. Start your journey with AOT today and let the stunning scenery of the Three Gorges unfold before your eyes!
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