Three Gorges Cruise: How to Choose from 20+ Three Gorges Cruise Ships?

Why Take a Three Gorges Cruise Tour?

Explore the Iconic Three Gorges

Cruising the Yangtze River lets you witness the breathtaking beauty of the Three Gorges: Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡), Wu Gorge (巫峡), and Xiling Gorge (西陵峡). These natural wonders are the must-see highlights of any Yangtze River journey, offering awe-inspiring views and a serene cruising experience.

Famous Kuimen in Three Gorges

Wu Gorge

Discover Rich Shore Excursions

Beyond the Three Gorges, shore excursions provide incredible cultural and historical experiences.

Marvel at the engineering feat of the Three Gorges Dam, explore the unique atmosphere of Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), and immerse yourself in the history of White Emperor City (白帝城). You'll also enjoy the serene landscapes of Shennong Stream (神农溪) or Shennv Stream (神女溪), each with its own charm.

Indulge in a Luxurious Onboard Experience

Yangtze River cruise ships are predominantly 5-star vessels, with some like the Yangtze Explorer offering even greater luxury.

Onboard, you'll find an array of entertainment facilities, such as reading rooms, spa services, and even swimming pools. Activities include Tai Chi, ethnic shows, and Chinese painting lectures. Gourmet meals cater to all tastes, and the attentive service ensures a relaxing and memorable trip from start to finish.

Activities on Yangtze River Cruise

Activities on Yangtze River Cruise

Learn about the Classic Three Gorges Cruise Routes

The routes between Chongqing and Yichang offer you the perfect opportunity to explore the golden section of the Yangtze River, packed with history, culture, and natural beauty.

4-Day Downstream Three Gorges Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang

If you’re looking for a quick and enriching experience, the 4-day downstream cruise is ideal.

Starting in Chongqing, you’ll board at Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头) and embark on a journey through the best highlights of the Yangtze River. The journey concludes with a visit to the world-famous Three Gorges Dam Project before disembarking at Yichang Maoping Port (茅坪码头).

Recommended Tours:

4 Days Chongqing Yichang Yangtze River Cruise Tour (Downstream)

5-Day Upstream Three Gorges Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing

For a more leisurely pace, the 5-day upstream cruise offers an immersive adventure.

Starting from Yichang, you’ll board at Maoping Port (茅坪码头). Finally, you’ll disembark at Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock (朝天门码头) after a memorable exploration.

Recommended Tours:

5 Days Yangtze River Cruise Tour from Yichang to Chongqing (Upstream)

There Are 20+ Three Gorges Cruise Ships Offered

How to Choose a Three Gorges Cruise Ship?

When selecting the perfect Three Gorges cruise ship, consider the following factors:

Tip 1: Choose Based on Your Ship Preferences

Tip 2: Choose Based on Travel Length

• For a 4-Day Cruise: Almost all downstream cruises offer 4 days Three Gorges cruise, except for Yangtze 1, which offers a 5 days downstream cruise from Chongqing to Yichang.
• For a 5-Day Cruise: All Three Gorges cruise ships offer 5 days upstream itineraries. You can choose either downstream or upstream cruises.

Tip 3: Check If Attractions Are All-Inclusive

Not all Three Gorges cruises include every attraction in their ticket price.

Some require additional fees for key sites like the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift, Fengdu Ghost City (丰都鬼城), White Emperor City (白帝城), or cultural shows like War of the Three Kingdoms (烽烟三国) and Three Gorges Tribe (三峡人家).

Cruises offering all-inclusive services include: Century Voyage, Yangzi Explorer, Yangtze 1/2/3, and Yangtze Miracle.

Tribe of the Three Gorges

War Fire of Three Kingdoms Show

Tip 4: Look for Unique Shore Excursions

Most Three Gorges cruise itineraries are similar. However, some ships offer distinctive shore excursions beyond the standard itinerary. Consider these options for a more personalized experience:

• Century Voyage/Oasis/Victory/Glory/Paragon:

The itineraries are relatively fixed, primarily covering Fengdu Ghost City, White Emperor City (optional for all except Century Voyage), Shennv Stream, and the Three Gorges Dam.

• Victoria Sabrina/Jenna/Anna/Katarina:

Visit different spots like Shibaozhai (石宝寨) or Xiaoguanshan ancient architecture (小官山古建筑群).

• Yangzi Explorer:

Unique offerings include the 816 Underground Nuclear Project (816地下核工程), Baiheliang Underwater Museum (白鹤梁水下博物馆), and scenic walks at Shennv Sky Road (神女天路). Its upstream route provides varied itineraries, including Yichang-Badong-Chongqing or Yichang-Shennongjia-Chongqing.

816 Underground Nuclear Project in Puling, Chongqing

816 Underground Nuclear Project in Puling, Chongqing

• Yangtze 1:

Yangtze 1 is the only ship offering a 5-day, 4-night downstream route, sailing through all three iconic gorges: Qutang Gorge (瞿塘峡), Wu Gorge (巫峡), and Xiling Gorge (西陵峡).

• Yangtze Miracle:

The downstream itinerary includes visits to the 816 Underground Nuclear Project/Baiheliang Underwater Museum, Mt. Wuling Great Rift Valley (武陵山大裂谷), Lesser Three Gorges (小三峡), Shennv Sky Road, and light hiking at the Heart of the Three Gorges.

The upstream itinerary features White Emperor City and additional options like Luojiazhai (罗家寨), the Three Gorges Summit, Shennongjia (神农架), Lesser Three Gorges, and either Shibaozhai or the ancient relics of Zhongzhou Alley (忠州巷子).

• Yangtze Gold 3/5/6/8:

Unique attractions include Shuanggui Mountain (双桂山), Lesser Three Gorges, Mini Three Gorges (小小三峡), and Dachang Ancient Town (大昌古镇).

Fengdu Shuanggui Mountatin

The lesser Three Gorges

Tip 5: Choose Based on Boarding Date

Your boarding date can also influence your options. Check the Yangtze River Cruise Itinerary Calendar to see if your departure date matches your travel plans!

Note:

1. The best time to cruise the Three Gorges is April, May, September, or October.

2. High-demand dates during peak seasons or public holidays (e.g., Labor Day, National Day) may limit availability. Booking early ensures you secure your desired ship and itinerary.

3. For greater affordability and less crowded experiences, consider cruising during the winter off-season (December to February). Check out cheap Yangtze River cruises >>

Three Gorges Cruise Reviews to Know before a Final Decision

Before choosing your ideal Three Gorges cruise, it's helpful to explore reviews from past travelers. These insights cover everything from onboard facilities and dining to shore excursions and service quality.

Susanne on TripAdvisor, “We really enjoyed the cruise. The rooms were very comfortable, the food was excellent and the crew very friendly and helpful! Although we were the only west people, they translated everything in English. We had a great time!”

itchyfeet2014 on TripAdvisor, “We arrived here very late at night with an Asia Odyssey Travel group. The boat is very nice, but we had never done a river cruise before to compare. Certainly, clean and great staff.”

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Check more Yangtze River Cruise Reviews >>

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Choosing the right Three Gorges Cruise can make all the difference in your Yangtze River adventure, and Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) is here to help.

With expert insights, personalized recommendations, seamless booking services, and private transfers, we’ll guide you to the perfect Three Gorges cruise ship for your needs. Let us handle the details so you can relax and enjoy the spectacular views, cultural immersion, and onboard luxury of your dream Three Gorges Cruise Ship.

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