Top 9 Luxury Yangtze Cruises 2025
Set sail on an extraordinary voyage of ultimate luxury and uncover the very best of the Yangtze River in 2025. Our cruise experts and past passengers have carefully selected the Top 9 Luxury Yangtze River Cruise Ships for you.
For the Three Gorges Line, the standout vessels include Yangzi Explorer (Yangtze Explorer), Century Voyage, Victoria Sabrina, Century Glory, Century Victory, Century Oasis, and Yangtze 3 (listed in no particular order). Additionally, in 2025, two ships will offer special extended Yangtze cruises lasting 9 to 12 days - Century Legend and Yangtze 2 - both promising a journey that surpassed expectations. Each of these ships is a pinnacle of riverine elegance, featuring luxurious accommodations, cutting-edge amenities, gourmet dining, and impeccable service.
A journey on any of these vessels guarantees comfort, sophistication, and unforgettable memories, all wrapped in the premium experience you desire. Explore the details below to find the perfect cruise that matches your quest for luxury and adventure.
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Luxury Cruise Ships with Long-line Itineraries:
Yangzi Explorer
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The Yangzi Explorer is the epitome of ultra-luxury cruising on the Yangtze River, offering an unparalleled experience that redefines opulence. As the newest and only all-suite 5-star luxury vessel, it has been meticulously designed to provide the ultimate in comfort and elegance. Every suite features spacious accommodations, private balconies, and personalized butler service, ensuring an intimate and indulgent journey. The ship also boasts a remarkable 1:1 crew-to-passenger ratio, providing unparalleled one-on-one VIP service.
Beyond its luxurious accommodations, the Yangzi Explorer offers unique experiences that set it apart. Its exclusive route to the Shennongjia Nature Reserve - a UNESCO World Heritage site - provides a rare glimpse into the vibrant natural beauty of China. Additionally, the ship’s direct passage through the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift offers an unparalleled engineering marvel from the comfort of your cabin.
Onboard, guests can savor world-class dining options, featuring both Western gourmet and local Chinese cuisine prepared by internationally trained chefs. The ship also boasts a state-of-the-art gym, a world-renowned spa, and an entertainment theater, ensuring that every moment of your journey is filled with relaxation and excitement.
Whether you are seeking adventure, cultural immersion, or simply a luxurious escape, the Yangzi Explorer promises an unforgettable voyage. This floating masterpiece is more than just a cruise; it is an experience that redefines luxury travel.
Century Voyage
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Launched in September 2024, the Century Voyage stands as one of the newest and most luxurious Yangtze River cruise ships, setting a new benchmark for opulence and comfort. As the latest addition to the prestigious Century Cruises fleet, this vessel offers an unparalleled experience for travelers seeking the ultimate river cruise getaway.
With a construction cost of approximately 300 million RMB, the Century Voyage is the sister ship of the renowned Century Oasis, Century Glory, and Century Victory, but it goes above and beyond with upgraded rooms, dining options, technology, and services. This state-of-the-art vessel features 8 types of cabins and suites, all equipped with high-quality furnishings, intelligent appliances, and elegant decor. Each of the 236 luxurious rooms offers a private balcony and bathroom, ensuring a comfortable stay for solo travelers, couples, families, and groups.
The Century Voyage is not just a ship; it is a floating resort with a focus on guest satisfaction. The vessel boasts three restaurants, including the unique double-deck Globe Restaurant, offering a diverse culinary journey with Chinese, Western, and Asian cuisines. The Sissi Lounge & Bar adds a touch of cultural elegance, showcasing Chinese paintings and artifacts related to Princess Sissi.
Guests can enjoy a wide range of services, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, butler service, porter assistance, and an extensive entertainment program featuring seasonal activities, night shows, and cultural lectures. The ship’s commitment to eco-friendly practices and intelligent technology, including service robots and a VOD system, ensures a sustainable and convenient cruise experience.
Whether you are exploring the iconic Three Gorges or relaxing on the spacious sun deck, the Century Voyage promises a journey of comfort, style, and unparalleled luxury. It is an experience that redefines what it means to travel in true opulence.
Victoria Sabrina
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Launched in 2020, the Victoria Sabrina is the latest and most luxurious addition to the renowned Victoria Cruises fleet, setting a new standard for high-end river cruising. As the largest Yangtze River cruise ship, it combines cutting-edge technology with eco-friendly design, making it the first Yangtze River Eco-friendly luxury cruise to meet the highest standards for energy-saving and environmental protection. This commitment to sustainability is matched by its unparalleled onboard experience, making it a favorite among international travelers.
The Victoria Sabrina features over 270 elegantly designed cabins and suites, each equipped with private balconies, luxurious private bathrooms, and high-quality linens, ensuring a comfortable and indulgent stay. With a capacity of 690 passengers and a crew of 195, the ship offers a high staff-to-guest ratio, providing personalized service and attention to detail that sets it apart.
Guests can savor exquisite culinary experiences in the ship’s fine dining restaurants, featuring menus curated by the award-winning Chef Walter Staib. The onboard amenities include a spa center, gym, theater, multiple lounges, and a spacious sun deck with deckchairs, perfect for taking in the breathtaking views of the Three Gorges. The ship also offers a variety of entertainment options, from cultural shows to themed parties, ensuring a memorable journey.
With its American-managed service, commitment to sustainability, and luxurious amenities, the Victoria Sabrina a floating resort that promises an unforgettable and luxurious Yangtze River experience.
Century Glory
Century Oasis Ship Data:
Century Victory Ship Data:
Century Glory Ship Data:
The Century Cruises fleet, comprising the Century Victory (launched in 2022), Century Glory (launched in 2019), and the 2023 addition, Century Oasis, sets the benchmark for luxury river cruising. Each ship can accommodate up to 650 passengers with a crew of 189, offering a range of spacious accommodations from 24㎡ Interior Cabins to 85㎡ Presidential Suites. The Century Oasis, in particular, gained recognition in 2024 by winning the “Asian Best” title at the World Cruise Awards. These sister ships provide an unparalleled Yangtze River experience with their luxurious amenities, including private balconies in every cabin, fine dining options, and a unique double-decker restaurant.
Luxurious Accommodation Options: With six distinct cabin and suite types—Presidential Suite, Family Suite, Couples Suite, Executive Suite, and Deluxe Cabin—guests can choose from a variety of options tailored to their preferences. Each cabin and suite ranges from 26㎡ to 85㎡ and features a private balcony, allowing guests to enjoy the river views from the comfort of their rooms.
Sustainable and Intelligent Design: The Century Oasis, Century Victory, and Century Glory have been awarded the “Green Ship” and “Intelligent Efficiency” distinctions by the China Classification Society. These accolades reflect the fleet's commitment to eco-friendly practices and advanced technology, ensuring a secure and environmentally conscious journey.
Enhanced Services and Amenities: Each vessel offers a range of complimentary services, including welcome dinners, luggage assistance, daily midnight snacks, childcare services, and guided excursions with earphones. The cabins are strategically positioned at the front of the ship to minimize noise and provide a peaceful experience throughout the journey.
Yangtze 3
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Launched in 2022, Yangtze 3 is a national cruise ship and represents a new generation of high-end river vessels on the Yangtze River. It embodies the pinnacle of design and construction for river cruise ships and has been designated as a pilot ship for the Ministry of Transportation and Communication’s high-quality cultural cruise routes.
With over 10 uniquely designed room types and 250 luxurious guest rooms, Yangtze 3 offers a variety of options to suit every traveler’s needs. From its exterior appearance and functional layout to its interior decor and service facilities, every aspect of the ship is designed with green, comfortable, intelligent, and luxurious principles in mind.
Yangtze 3 has been recognized as the “Representative of Innovation and Service Excellence in the Travel Industry” for its innovative “one-ticket” cruise product and its attentive butler service. Additionally, the newly inaugurated onshore attraction, the Goddess Sky Road, has received widespread acclaim from passengers.
Luxury Yangtze River Cruise Ships with Special Itineraries
Century Legend
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The Century Legend is renowned as one of the most luxurious cruise ships on the Yangtze River, offering an unparalleled journey that combines opulence with in-depth exploration. As part of the esteemed Century Cruises fleet, this vessel is celebrated for its exceptional service, elegant accommodations, and commitment to providing an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
One of the most remarkable features of the Century Legend is its special long-line itinerary, such as the 11/12-day cruise between Shanghai and Chongqing. This extended journey allows guests to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes along the Yangtze River. Key highlights include stops in historic cities like Nanjing, Wuhan, and Yichang, as well as iconic sites such as the Three Gorges Dam and the Three Gorges themselves. Each destination offers unique cultural experiences, from ancient temples and museums to modern engineering marvels.
Onboard, the Century Legend provides a luxurious experience with all-inclusive 5-star amenities. All cabins feature private balconies, ensuring guests can enjoy panoramic views of the river. The ship offers a variety of dining options, including Chinese and Western buffets, as well as themed dinners that reflect the regional cuisine. Complimentary services such as morning tea, Tai Chi classes, and onboard activities add to the enriching experience.
The Century Legend also boasts world-class facilities, including a spa center, fitness room, swimming pool, and multiple lounges, ensuring that guests have every opportunity to unwind. With its commitment to exceptional service, the ship’s crew ensures that every aspect of your journey is seamless and enjoyable.
Whether you are embarking on a long-line adventure or a shorter cruise, the Century Legend promises a journey of unparalleled luxury and unforgettable experiences on the Yangtze River.
Yangtze 2
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The Yangtze 2 offers an extraordinary long-line river cruise experience, providing travelers with a luxurious and immersive journey along the Yangtze River. As the 2024 refurbished ship from Changjiang Cruises, the Yangtze 2 combines modern amenities with spacious cabins and suites, all at a competitive price that makes it a popular choice among river cruise enthusiasts.
In 2025, the Yangtze 2 introduces a special 9/10-day itinerary between Chongqing and Nanjing (from August 21 to October 26), taking travelers on a comprehensive exploration of the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. This extended journey includes stops in iconic destinations such as Nanjing, Wuhan, Jiujiang, and Jingzhou, each offering unique cultural and historical experiences. Highlights of the cruise include rewarding visits to the Three Gorges, Three Gorges Dam, and UNESCO heritage sites, Mount Huangshan, Mount Lu, and Shennongjia, etc., allowing guests to delve into China’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Onboard, the Yangtze 2 provides a luxurious experience with all-inclusive packages that cover all attractions, meals, and selected beverages. The ship features modern facilities, including a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi, and multiple dining options. With a focus on comfort and convenience, the Yangtze 2 ensures that guests enjoy a worry-free journey, from the moment they embark to the time they disembark.
Beyond being just a cruise, the Yangtze 2’s long-line itinerary offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the heart of China in true style and comfort. Whether you seek cultural immersion, natural wonders, or simply a relaxing journey, the Yangtze 2 promises an unforgettable and luxurious experience.
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