Yangtze River Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang
Embarking on a journey along the Yangtze River from Chongqing to Yichang is a popular choice for many, with the downstream voyage typically spanning 4 days and 3 nights. This 648-kilometer route is often referred to as the "golden waterway" of the Yangtze, offering a luxurious and relaxing 5-star cruise experience.
The Chongqing to Yichang cruise traverses the most spectacular sections of the Yangtze, encompassing awe-inspiring landscapes such as towering mountains, striking peaks, and mysterious cliffs, all complemented by the river’s own dramatic flow. The cruise is particularly noted for passing through the breathtaking Three Gorges and showcasing the pastoral beauty of traditional Chinese countryside.
This trip is akin to a journey through a dynamic art exhibition, where each new vista unveils a fresh, natural masterpiece. The scenery shifts from the grandeur of the mountains to the peacefulness of the farmlands, painting a vivid picture of China’s diverse geography and rich cultural heritage.
Why Taking a Yangtze Cruise from Chongqing to Yichang?
① Spectacular Vistas: This cruise offers a visual feast as you journey along the Yangtze, with the breathtaking Three Gorges serving as a constant companion. You'll have ample opportunities to witness the grandeur of the Three Gorges and delve into the engineering marvel that is the Three Gorges Dam.
② Diverse Fleet Options: Nearly 20 vessels ply this iconic route, with cruise lines offering a variety of luxury, spacious, and modern ships. This abundance of options allows you to pick the perfect vessel to suit your preferences and budget.
③ Year-Round Sailing: The cruise ships maintain a consistent schedule from March to November, ensuring that you can embark on this journey at any time during these months. During the winter months of December to February, select cruise lines like Century Cruises and Victoria Cruises offer special discounted rates for those looking to explore this route in a more budget-friendly way.
④ Creative Itineraries: The journey from Chongqing to Yichang is dotted with approximately 20 points of interest, where you can disembark to explore 3-5 natural wonders and cultural landmarks. Additionally, the cruise features an array of engaging entertainment and activities that are scheduled at various times, ensuring that your time on board is just as enjoyable as your time onshore.
⑤ Relaxing Interlude in a Longer Trip: If your China itinerary spans over 10 days or more, incorporating a Chongqing to Yichang cruise is often seen as a welcome respite. Instead of the hustle of visiting multiple attractions daily, you can enjoy a few days of tranquility on the river, with less physical exertion and more time to soak in the experience at a leisurely pace. Top 10 China Yangtze Tours (6~17 Days), discover now >>
Chongqing to Yichang Cruise through Three Gorges
Enjoy Three Gorges Scenery in your Cabin
Hot Cruises from Chongqing to Yichang 2025/2026
4 Days 3 Nights Chongqing to Yichang Cruise | Sample Itinerary
A Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing to Yichang typically spans 4 days and 3 nights. On the first day, passengers arrive in Chongqing and board the cruise ship at Chaotianmen Dock. The following two days are dedicated to traveling from Chongqing to Yichang, with onshore activities and onboard entertainment. The final day is for disembarking, with the ship docking at Yichang Maoping Port (90%), Yichang No.9 Dock (Yangtze 1) and Yichang Huangling Temple Port (Yangzi Explorer). After disembarking, guests can visit the Three Gorge Dam Site before heading to Yichang city center for their onward journey.
Review the provided SAMPLE itinerary (Century Cruises) for a voyage from Chongqing to Yichang to get a general sense of what a Yangtze River cruise entails. Please note that the specific departure times, onboard activities, and land tours can differ among various cruise operators. Once you have selected your Yangtze cruise ship, be sure to consult the precise itinerary provided by that particular vessel. Find a cruise >>
(Notice: Time Intervals given below is only for your reference, which might change according to the real situation.)
Map of Chongqing Yichang Cruise Route
Day 1 Chongqing Embarkation
- 16:00-20:00 Board the ship at Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock & check in
- Approx. 21:00 Depart from Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock and your cruise starts
- 21:00-21:30 Embarkation safety briefing & facilities onboard introduction
Highlights:
Chongqing is China’s fourth municipality after Beijing, Shanghai and Tianjin, attracting visitors from home and aboard for its unique topography, amazing nightscape and UNESCO attractions (Dazu and Wulong). Located at the confluence of Yangtze River and Jialing River, Chongqing is mainly served as a port city for Yangtze River cruise. Many travelers choose to land in Chongqing at least half day in advance and sometime arrive one day ahead for a classic savory of the Mountain City in China. Discover more about Chongqing 1-3 Days Itinerary >>
Meals: Some cruises provided tonight. For those who don’t, guests are recommended to have dinner at before boarding or bring some food to the ship.
Accommodation: on the ship
▶ Learn more about: How to Get to & around Chongqing | Chongqing Chaotianmen Dock | Chongqing Travel Guide
Longshuixia Gap
Dazu Rock Carvings
Hongya Cave
Day 2 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
- Morning Shore excursion (Included or Optional) at Fengdu County (Fengdu Ghost City/Shuanggui Mountain/Xiaoguanshan…)
- Night Large-scale real landscape show (Optional or Included) at Zhong County - Feng Yan San Guo Show
Highlights:
Some cruise ships arrange Fengdu Ghost City as the must-do site and some ships take it as the optional one. Fengdu Ghost City is a large complex of shrines, temples and monasteries dedicated to the afterlife located on Ming Mountain. You’ll have a learning about Chinese demons and beliefs of Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism. Instead of visiting Fengdu Ghost City, some cruise ships will take you to its nearby attraction - Jade Emperor Scenic Area or Mount Shuanggui. Learn more about Fengdu Ghost City >>
Feng Yan San Guo show is an extravagant live show and a rich cultural experience that embodies the essence of loyalty and righteousness. Drawing inspiration from the renowned 14th-century novel The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, it weaves together historical facts and mythical tales. This enchanting spectacle features equestrian combat, dazzling light and water displays, 3D holographic projections, and spectacular pyrotechnics. Learn more about Feng Yan San Guo show >>
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Accommodation: on the ship
▶ Learn more about: Onboard Activities | Shore Excursions Advice & Tips
Fengdu Ghost City
Feng Yan San Guo Show
Day 3 Yangtze River Cruise (B, L, D)
- Morning Shore excursion (optional) to White Emperor City or entertainment activities onboard
- Noon Sailing through Qutang Gorge - notable for its dramatic cliffs, narrow passages, historical significance, including the iconic Kuimen Gate and the White Emperor City.
- Afternoon Sailing through Wu Gorge - with its towering cliffs and misty waters, offers a breathtaking panorama of nature’s grandeur.
- Afternoon Shore excursion to a tranquil tributary of the Three Gorges (Shennv Stream, Shennong Stream, Lesser Three Gorges, Mini Three Gorges…) or to a panoramic observing platform of the Three Gorges (Goddess Sky Road, Three Gorges Summit…)
- Night Captain’s farewell banquet
Highlights:
Stretching across 311 kilometers, the Three Gorges extend from Baidi Town in Chongqing to Nanjing Pass in Yichang, encompassing Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, and Xiling Gorge. To truly savor the breathtaking vistas of the Three Gorges, there’s no better way than from the comfort of a sundeck or your own private balcony, as the majestic gorges unfold before you. Your heart quickens with excitement as you navigate through Qutang Gorge’s iconic Kui Gate, famously featured on the background of China’s 10 Yuan note. Learn more about Three Gorges | Qutang Gorge | Wu Gorge | Xiling Gorge >>
Often included as an optional stop on cruise itineraries, White Emperor City is situated on the northern bank of Qutang Gorge, providing an optimal vantage point for admiring the spectacular Kui Gate. Renowned as the City of Poetry, it has drawn numerous poets who have inscribed their verses within its walls. The site’s fame extends beyond its literary legacy due to the historical event known as “The Entrustment at Baidi,” where Zhuge Liang was appointed as regent to a young heir. Learn more about White Emperor City >>
Shennv Stream is a primitive gorge. Close to Goddess Peak, Shennv Stream has a length of 15 kilometers and about 10 kilometers belongs to the original gorge. Experience will be similar to Shennnong Stream. You’ll first switch to a smaller boat from your ship and then sailing through Shennv Stream. Hanging coffins can be seen and Tujia minority singing and dancing show can be experienced. Learn more about Shennv Stream >>
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner included
Accommodation: on the ship
▶ Learn more about: Shennong Stream | Lesser Three Gorges | Mini Three Gorge
Qutang Gorge
White Emperor City
Shennv Stream
Day 4 Three Gorges Dam Site & Yichang Disembarkation (B)
- Morning Begin your day by disembarking at Maoping Port and embarking on a shore excursion to visit the Three Gorges Dam Site, after which you will be transported to the Yichang Three Gorges Cruise Terminal for your onward journey.
- Alternatively, upon disembarking at Maoping Port, you can board a sightseeing vessel that will take you through the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift, offering a unique perspective on the dam's operation, followed by a visit to the Three Gorges Dam itself. Subsequently, you will proceed to the Yichang Three Gorges Cruise Terminal to continue your departure. (Please note: The ship lift experience is an optional activity provided by most luxury cruise companies for downstream itineraries and incurs an additional cost.)
Highlight:
The Three Gorges Dam is a top attraction that every cruise includes in their itinerary, either as the first or last shore excursion. Situated in Yichang City, it holds the title of the world’s largest hydroelectric power station. Spanning 3,335 meters in length and with its crest at an elevation of 185 meters above sea level, the dam is composed of three main components: the dam itself, the power plants, and the ship lift. It serves dual purposes—generating electricity and enhancing the navigability of the Yangtze River for shipping. Visitors on a Yangtze River cruise typically allocate 2 to 3 hours to explore the dam, offering them the opportunity to marvel at the colossal structure and gain insights into its historical significance, societal effects, and economic benefits. For those interested in experiencing ship lift, this option is also available. Learn more about Three Gorges Dam | Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift
Notice: For guests with later flights or those not in a hurry to leave Yichang, some cruise companies also provide options to visit additional shore excursions in Yichang (at an additional cost), such as Qu Yuan Temple and Tribe of the Three Gorges. For specific details, please inquire with the cruise company.
Meals: Breakfast included (no lunch on this day)
Accommodation: excluded
▶ Learn more about: Maoping Port | How to Get from Cruise Port to Airport / Railway Station | Yichang Travel Guide
Three Gorges Dam Site
Ship Lift
Note:
1. The details provided, including the travel itinerary, points of interest, and shore excursions, are subject to minor alterations due to variations in the cruise ships, seasonal changes, fluctuating water levels, and weather conditions.
2. Included meals as noted in above itinerary: (B) = Breakfast; (L) = Lunch; (D) = Dinner.
3. Cruises offer comprehensive travel packages with distinctive itineraries. Take the Yangtze 1, for instance, which offers a 5-day downstream route that navigates through all three gorges—Qutang, Wu, and Xiling—during the morning hours, and the price includes the experience of the ship lift. For additional exclusive Yangtze River Cruise options, you can check out the 2025 Yangtze 1 Itinerary | Yangtze 3 Itinerary | Yangtzi Explorer Itinerary >>
How to Choose a Yangtze Cruise Sailing from Chongqing to Yichang?
1. Decide Which Companies You Want to Take
There are altogether six cruise companies, including Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises, Yangzi Explorer, Changjiang Cruises, etc., sailing from Chongqing to Yichang stably. For the ultimate in top-tier service aboard newer ships, consider Century Cruises, Victoria Cruises, or Changjiang Cruises. If you're seeking the epitome of luxury with personalized VIP service, the Yangzi Explorer is the choice for you. Check all the cruise companies and ships in 2025/2026.
2. Budget & Price
When planning a Yangtze cruise from Chongqing to Yichang, your budget will determine the experience. For a lavish experience, consider the premium 5-star Yangtze Explorer, with rates between $1,432-$1,737. If you're seeking a more budget-friendly luxury option, there are cruises starting at around $400. For those who want a balance of modern amenities and quality service at a more moderate price, the best-value options are priced between $430-$650. Find a cruise for your 2025 Yangtze River Cruise tour >>
3. Which onshore adventures and activities pique your curiosity?
Different cruise companies vary in their itineraries and the shore excursions they offer, but all include visits to the Three Gorges and the Three Gorges Dam in their routes.
For other shore excursions along the way, Century Cruises and Victoria Cruises provide trips to Fengdu County and a delightful boat ride at Shennv Stream. If hiking to enjoy a sweeping view of the gorges is your preference, Yangtze 1, Yangtze 3, and the Yangtzi Explorer might be more aligned with your interests. For a thorough comparison of the offerings from each cruise company, you can refer to the comprehensive list of All Shore Excursions along the Yangtze River.
4. Select Your Travel Date
To get a clear picture of the cruise ships that will embark from Chongqing to Yichang on a particular date, you can refer to our 2025 cruise calendar, which includes a list of ships for that route on your chosen day. Once you have a preliminary understanding, feel free to contact us for more in-depth information to help you finalize your choice.
Interested in Yangtze River Cruise from Yichang to Chongqing (upstream) instead of Chongqing to Yichang (downstream)? You can take a look at the 5 days & 4 nights upstream cruise from Yichang to Chongqing for more reference. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our professional travel consultants!
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Enrich Your Yangtze River Cruise Experience
To enjoy the classic joyous Yangtze River cruise sailing, most people prefer to discover it with more wonderful destinations in China for a richer savory of China’s beautiful nature, culture, history, modern city, and more miracles in one go. No matter you visit China for the first time or more, we highly recommend you plan some days in the famous port city Chongqing and more hot places such as Guilin and Zhangjiajie with amazing landscape and classic destinations including Beijing, Shanghai, Xian, Chengdu, etc. before or after your cruising wind down! Select your favorite tour at below to start your vacation! Besides, all our tours are customizable, and we yangtze-river-cruises.com based in Chongqing, China is experienced in tour customization according to interests, needs and budget of our dear customers. So please feel free to contact us for a tailor-made tour if you are interested! Let’s go and explore!
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