Is Yangtze River Cruise Worth It? Top 7 Reasons to Take It
"Farewell to the Yangtze Three Gorges" has been used by many tour operators as a marketing strategy in late 1990's, while we can see that the Three Gorges are still there selling well like hot cakes, even after water rising 35 meters higher (finally 75 meters in 2009). More and more deluxe cruise ships are built to suit best the clients' requirements because the watercourse is much wider and smoother than ever before. Now tourists can go even further upstream on a Yangtze River cruise for the excursions to Lesser Three Gorges and Shennong Stream.
Yangtze cruise is one of the highlights of China tours. Is Yangtze River Cruise Worth It? Find out the top reasons why you should take a Yangtze River cruise trip.The Yangtze River cruise has been rated by National Geographic as one of the “best inland waterways in the world.” But is a Yangtze River cruise really worth it? After all, tickets can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000. As one of China's leading travel agencies, we have been working with top-quality Yangtze River cruise companies for nearly 20 years and have conducted multiple on-site inspections. In this article, we present the top 7 reasons why you should take a Yangtze River cruise.
The Magnificent Three Gorges - A World-Class Natural Wonder
The mighty Yangtze River and its Three Gorges (consisting of Wu Gorge, Xining Gorge, and Qutang Gorge) has long been one of Asia's most revered and dramatic nature attractions.
Qutang Gorge is the location of the “Kui Gate” featured on the 10-yuan RMB note. The cliffs here are only about 100 meters wide, yet their grandeur rivals that of the Grand Canyon in the United States. The Goddess Peak in Wu Gorge appears and disappears amidst the mist, vividly recreating the poetic imagery of the famous Chinese verse, “Once you've seen the vast sea, no other water can compare.”
Xiling Gorge is the only section of the Yangtze River that retains its original rapids after the construction of the Three Gorges Dam. Cruising through the Three Gorges on a Yangtze River cruise ship feels like sailing through a traditional Chinese ink painting. Thus, from the sun deck, one can witness the vast and diverse landscapes of China up close.
>> Recommended 4-day Chongqing to Yichang Yangtze River Cruise
Witness the world's engineering marvels firsthand - Three Gorges Dam
The controversial Three Gorges Dam arise the curiosity of people how the mammoth hydroelectric project works, and many people like to witness its grandeur.Curious about China's modern engineering and technological capabilities? At the Three Gorges Dam, the world's largest hydroelectric power station, learn about the dam's significant role in flood control, power generation, and navigation. Visit the dam's observation deck to overlook the entire Yangtze River basin. No wonder it is also considered one of the highlight attractions of Yangtze River cruises. Most ships also pass through the “ship lift,” offering a firsthand experience of the massive gates raising the water level—equivalent to an ascent of over 110 meters!>> Recommended 11-day Beijing Xian Shanghai Yangtze Cruise TourImmersive Cultural Experiences - More Than Just Sightseeing
Looking for more reasons to take a Yangtze River cruise? Of course! Your cruise isn't just about floating on the water—there are also a wealth of traditional Chinese cultural activities waiting for you and your children. Listen to stories about the history of the Three Gorges, the past and present of the Three Gorges immigrants, Chinese folk tales, and the Three Kingdoms stories.
In addition, traditional Chinese tea ceremony performances, calligraphy and Chinese painting experiences, Tai Chi morning exercises, lectures on traditional Chinese medicine, Hanfu photography, and more—different cruise companies aim to make your journey more memorable through diverse cultural experiences and hands-on activities.
>> Recommended 16-day China Impression Tour with Yangtze CruiseUnique Shore Excursions Are one of the Top Reasons
Experience the authentic rural people's life and culture through interesting shore excursions of Yangtze Cruise in a leisurely way. Most of the historical sites are well preserved at the original place or transferred to a higher spot for sightseeing.
White Emperor City is an ancient city closely associated with the Tang Dynasty poet Li Bai and the history of the Three Kingdoms, boasting numerous historical sites. The majestic Shibaozhai, built against the cliffs, resembles the “Potala Palace” on the Yangtze River and is one of China's ancient architectural treasures. Fengdu Ghost City reveals ancient Chinese underworld culture and people's imaginings of the afterlife.
Shennong Stream and Shennv Stream can be reached by small wooden boats. Venturing deep into the canyon, you can discover ancient hanging coffins and experience the original ecological scenery.
International-standard service equivalent to that of a luxury five-star hotel
Different cruises from Deluxe 5 star to comfortable class are designed to cater to the customer's needs. Friendly English-speaking staff, comprehensive facilities, colorful Yangtze cruise onboard activities and entertainment make your trip a pleasant and enjoyable.
High-end Yangtze River cruise companies, such as Century Cruise, Victoria Cruise, and the Presidential Series, all have excellent international reception capabilities and offer bilingual Chinese-English commentary. Yangtze River cruise on board facilities and services include restaurants (serving Chinese and Western cuisine), standard rooms and suites, bars and cafes, laundry services, luggage services, and more.
Suitable for Families, Couples, and All Ages
Different groups of people can find their own reasons for taking a Yangtze River cruise and find it worthwhile.
For the elderly, the Three Gorges cruise is slow-paced, convenient, and requires no rushing around to different attractions. You can enjoy the ever-changing scenery from the sun deck. Yangtze River cruises are also ideal for couples or married couples on their China honeymoon or anniversary trip. The ship offers a variety of child-friendly activities, allowing children to play and learn at the same time, while parents simply relax.
High Cost Performance, Worth the Time and Money
A standard 4-day/3-night or 5-day/4-night Yangtze River cruise ticket costs approximately US$500 to US$700, which includes accommodation, three meals a day, sightseeing, performances, and commentary. Save time and money on long-distance travel and transportation costs.Combine with Other Destinations on a China Package Tour
Chongqing is a boarding/disembarking port for Yangtze River cruises and one of China's most popular cities. Don't miss out on Chongqing hot pot and other delicacies, the surprising light rail passing through buildings, and the magical Hongya Cave. Additionally, you can combine it with Chengdu, the hometown of giant pandas; Zhangjiajie's Avatar Mountains; Xi'an's Terracotta Army; and the metropolis of Shanghai.
>> Recommended 20-day China Odyssey Tour
So, Is a Yangtze River Cruise Right for You?
>> Recommended 8-day Chongqing Zhangjiajie Tour with Yangtze River Cruise
Easy Tour China team warmly welcomes the friends from all over the world to take a fantastic Yangtze Cruise!