Yangtze River Tours and Vacation Packages

Passenger vessels that traverse the Yangtze, such as the Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer (the spelling of the river’s name varies widely according to who you ask) also offer curious Globetrotters the chance to experience local culture onboard. Local dishes and highlights of regional cuisine make every onboard meal a memorable part of the experience. If passengers really want to get into the local spirit, they can rise early for a traditional Tai Chi lesson led by a certified master, before informative talks help put each day’s discoveries in context.

The Yangtze River is considered to be the dividing line between northern and southern China, each side showing some of their cultural, economic, environmental, and scenic differences, all to be seen on tours to China. With many tributaries along its route, the ‘heart’ of the Yangtze River features The Three Gorges, a scenic area between Chongqing and Yichang, and home to The Three Gorges Dam - the largest dam project and hydro-electric power station in the world. On a China vacation, many cruises can be enjoyed from this area of the Yangtze River, as tourists can explore 21st Century Chinese life along the water.

It is usual to start in Chongqing for downstream cruises which take 4 days and from Yichang or Wuhan for upstream cruises which take 5 days. Various styles of the ship are available depending on price. 

Spring and fall are the best seasons for taking a Yangtze River cruise, especially in April, May, September and October when the weather is cool and comfortable. These four months are the high seasons. The prices are the lowest for winter cruises.