China River Cruises, Yangtze River Cruises
Cruising China's Yangtze River, at 3,900 miles the world's third longest river, has become a popular addition to China vacations. Itineraries typically include either a four-night cruise upstream or three nights downstream, or 7-day roundtrip cruise.
TravelStore's China experts or river cruise experts can arrange Yangtze River cruise in conjunction with your trip to China. You can also search for current China River Cruise offers on our website.
While the river cruises operate from March thru November, peak season is April thru May and September through October.
Because one's visit to China is usually quite limited (to see "all there is to see," the main decision a visitor needs to make is whether the days invested in cruising the Yangtze are preferred to adding more days visiting alternative locations by land. A highlight is the Three Gorges Dam Project -- the largest dam project on the planet.
Chinese River Cruise Ships
A number of new China river cruise ships have been built in recent years, and the product has evolved to deliver all the comforts Western travelers rely on. Some now include wireless internet access, luxury bedding and flat-screen televisions and in some cases, full shower tubs, small fitness rooms and limited spa services. The newest ships feature balconies and elevators that connect several decks.
Suites are now available for those desiring more space and comfort, with sitting area and larger baths, some with whirlpool tubs.
Cuisine is usually a mix of Western and Chinese fare. Breakfast and luncheons might be buffet, with table service for dinner. Some of the newer ships are adding alternative dining options.
2008 also sees the introduction of the most exclusive China river cruise ship, the Yangzi Explorer, featuring 62 or the largest and most luxuriously appointed staterooms, and an onboard Sinologist.
A Day onboard China River Cruises
Typically shore excursions are included in the river cruises package and occur after breakfast. These may include the Three Gorges Dam, Fengdu (the Ghost City), Shibaozhai (with its 400-year-old, 12-story wodden pagoda), and small boat excursions on the Daning River.
Later onboard, guests might enjoy a massage in the ship's spa, where acupuncture, acupressure and other therapies may be available. In the evening attend a lecture on Chinese history or culture, or a Chinese performance or talent show by the crew or fellow guests.
China is a phenomenal destination to visit, offering incredible scenic vistas, terrific sightseeing opportunities, bustling and thriving city life, and an immersion into an amazing culture.
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