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Yangzi Explorer

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Yangtze Explorer Cruise Ship

Breaking News! Yangzi Explorer is going to sail its brand-new luxury cruise vessel in April 2025!

This “Newly constructed” ship will be the newest and unparalleled luxury cruise on the Yangtze! As its precious Yangzi Explorer with 30 years' experience and once selected by Warren Buffett and more global celebrities, the new one is your Best Choice for the ultimate luxury cruise vacation! Despite its name and all-suite design, it also strictly keeps the finest and most personalized one-on-one service (river highest crew to passenger ratio of 1:1) to ensure every level of comfort for an intimate cruising experience.

2025 Yangzi Explorer cruise booking: Select your favorite date and make your 2025 Yangzi Explorer early bird booking at a good price!

Yangzi Explorer Special Route to Shennongjia 2025: It is the 2025 only cruise offering routes to Shennongjia Nature Reserve (UNESCO World Natural Heritage) which is a vibrantly colorful home to rare animals and plants.

Cruise Route:

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Yangtze Explorer Cruise Ship Itinerary in 2025

Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Yangtze Explorer Chongqing Yichang Itinerary Map

Map of Yangtze Explorer's Itinerary

DAY 1
Embarkation
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Chongqing Chaotianmen DockChongqing Chaotianmen Dock Nightview
  • Highlights of Today
    • Upon your arrival at Chongqing, either at the Chongqing Airport or Railway Station, you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to the Yangzi Explorer;
    • Enjoy your dinner at the Dynasty Restaurant (or any other prebooked dining venue available on board);
    • Join the safety briefing and Captain’s Welcome Reception at the Explorer Bar;
    • Enjoy the stunning night-time views of Chongqing.
  • Dining
    Dinner
DAY 2
Yangtze River Cruise
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - 816 Nuclear Military Plant816 Nuclear Military Plant in Fuling
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Feng Yan San Guo ShowFeng Yan San Guo Show about Three Kingdom History in Zhongxian
  • Highlights of Today
    • Start your morning with an early bird tea or coffee followed by Tai Chi lesson;
    • Shore excursion to:

      Option A: Fuling Project 816 (Included)

      (Hidden in the Wuling Mountains of Fuling, the Project816 is the world’s largest known man-made military cave.)

      Option B: White Crane Ridge Underwater Museum & a local market (Included)

      (The museum will take you some 148 feet under water to admire the river bed and the intricate ancient rock carvings left there since AD 763 in Tang Dynasty.)

    • Return to the ship for a-la-carte lunch, followed by an afternoon at your leisure;
    • In the evening, choose from two enticing activities:

      Option A: Beacon of Three Kingdoms show (Included)

      (It is the marvelous large-scale real landscape show that blends history, myth, and stunning visual effects around the lore of The Three Kingdoms.)

      Option B: Zhongzhou Old Alley (Included)

      (The area embodies the spirit of Ba and Yu and protects the primitive customs of the Three Gorges. Efforts to safeguard Zhongzhou Alley ensure the survival of ancient architecture, from mottled bricks to venerable tiles, while old shops remain central to community life.)

  • Entertainment Onboard
    • Learn to play Tai Chi in early morning
  • Dining
    Morning (Early Bird Tea or Coffee); Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet); Lunch (A La Carte); Dinner (Chinese & Western Buffet)
DAY 3
Yangtze River Cruise
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Qutang GorgeMagnificent Qutang Gorge (Kuimen Gate)
Goddess Sky RoadGoddess Sky Road in Autumn
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Wu GorgeGorgeous Wu Gorge with Red Leaves in Winter
Lesser Three GorgesPicturesque Lesser Three Gorges
  • Highlights of Today
    • Sail across Qutang Gorge in the morning glow and admire the splendor of the green peaks and tranquility of the river on the Explorer Deck;

      (Qutang Gorge is the first, most dramatic and magnificent gorge among the three gorges and lets you admire the view of Kui Gate (Kuimen) printed on the 10 RMB Chinese Note.)

    • Join the morning tour to explore Wushan:

      Option A: Wushan Goddess Sky Road (Included)

      (With an average altitude of about 1,200 meters, it is advantageous to overlook the belt-like emerald Yangtze and verdant flowery gorge mountains, especially for autumn and winter red leaves.)

      Option B: Lesser Three Gorges & Mini Three Gorges, also known as Daning River & Madu River (Included)

      (Daning River is a breathtaking tributary of the Yangtze River nestled in Wushan. Your experience begins with a scenic ferry ride, followed by an intimate small boat excursion deeper into the enchanting Madu River. You’ll be captivated by the remnants of ancient settlements, including the remarkable hanging coffins resting high on the cliff faces.)

    • Sail across Wu Gorge, the most beautiful gorge among the Three Gorges.

      (Characterized by majestic peaks crowned by lush forests, Wu Gorge is said to be celestial. Legend has it that Yao Ji loved this area so much that she and her 12 attendants were transformed into the graceful peaks.)

    • In the evening, experience a marvel of modern engineering as the Yangzi Explorer navigates through the world’s largest and most technologically advanced ship lift, the Three Gorges Ship Lift (Included).

      (This lift boasts a lift capacity of 15,500 tons and a vertical lift height of 113 meters, equivalent to a 40-story building. Yangzi Explorer is one of the select few vessels that can journey through this impressive structure on its own. Enjoy this unique spectacle comfortably from your cabin on board.)

  • Entertainment Onboard
    • Learn to practice Tai Chi in early morning
  • Dining
    Early Morning Tea & Coffee; Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet); Lunch (Chinese & Western Buffet); Dinner (Chinese & Western Buffet)
DAY 4
Disembarkation
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Three Gorges DamSpectacular Floor Discharging View of Three Gorges Dam in Summer
  • Highlights of Today
    • Shore excursion to:

      Option A: Three Gorges Dam (Included)

      (It is the world largest hydroelectric station and the biggest dam project in the whole China contributing a lot to the flood control, electricity generation, shipping, etc. and is the No.2 essence of a Yangtze River cruise trip. As part of Yangtzi Explorer's exclusive itinerary, you will have the opportunity to visit the River Closure Park and Three Gorges Project Museum.)

      Option B: Qu Yuan Temple & the Hubei Three Gorges Resettlement Museum (Included)

      (Visitors to Quyuan Temple can explore a beautifully preserved environment that echoes the ancient times, with traditional architecture, tranquil gardens, and exhibits that tell the story of Qu Yuan's life and contributions to Chinese literature. The view of the Three Gorges Dam from Qu Yuan Temple is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a panoramic glimpse into the harmony between nature and human achievement.)

      (Hubei Three Gorges Resettlement Museum, offers a unique glimpse of the Three Gorges Dam. The museum not only honors the resilience and adaptability of those who were resettled but also provides a profound understanding of the environmental, social, and cultural impact of the Three Gorges Dam.)

    • Lunch at Juweng Restaurant for Yichang local delicacies.
    • After lunch, you will be transferred to Yichang Airport or Yichang East Railway Station.
  • Entertainment Onboard
    • Learn to practice Tai Chi in early morning
  • Dining
    Early Morning Tea & Coffee; Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet); Lunch (Yichang Local Delicacies)
DAY 1
Embarkation
Yangtze Explorer Cruise Itinerary - Three Gorges DamSpectacular Floor Discharging View of Three Gorges Dam in Summer
  • Highlights of Today
    • Upon your arrival at Yichang, either at the Three Gorges Airport or Yichang East Railway Station, you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to Yichang Huangling Temple Port to board the Yangzi Explorer.
    • Before embarking, choose the complimentary pre-cruise tour between:

      Option A: VIP Three Gorges Project Tour (Included)

      (It is the world largest hydroelectric station and the biggest dam project in the whole China contributing a lot to the flood control, electricity generation, shipping, etc. and is the No.2 essence of a Yangtze River cruise trip. As part of Yangtzi Explorer's exclusive itinerary, you will have the opportunity to visit the River Closure Park and Three Gorges Project Museum.)

      Option B: Qu Yuan Temple & the Hubei Three Gorges Resettlement Museum (Included)

      (Visitors to Quyuan Temple can explore a beautifully preserved environment that echoes the ancient times, with traditional architecture, tranquil gardens, and exhibits that tell the story of Qu Yuan's life and contributions to Chinese literature. The view of the Three Gorges Dam from Qu Yuan Temple is nothing short of breathtaking, offering a panoramic glimpse into the harmony between nature and human achievement.)

      (Hubei Three Gorges Resettlement Museum, offers a unique glimpse of the Three Gorges Dam. The museum not only honors the resilience and adaptability of those who were resettled but also provides a profound understanding of the environmental, social, and cultural impact of the Three Gorges Dam.)

    • After you’ve settled into your cabin, enjoy your dinner at the Dynasty Restaurant (or any other prebooked dining venue available on board)
    • Join the safety briefing and Captain’s Welcome Reception at the Explorer Bar.
  • Dining
    Dinner
DAY 2
Badong Exploration
photoWuyuan Cave in Bashan Park
photoTea Brewed from a Mountain Spring with Enshi Yulu
  • Highlights of Today
    • Start your morning with an early bird tea or coffee followed by Tai Chi lesson;
    • Experience a marvel of modern engineering as the Yangzi Explorer navigates through the world’s largest and most technologically advanced ship lift, the Three Gorges Ship Lift (Included).

      (This lift boasts a lift capacity of 15,500 tons and a vertical lift height of 113 meters, equivalent to a 40-story building. Yangzi Explorer is one of the select few vessels that can journey through this impressive structure on its own.)

    • Sail across Xiling Gorge, the most breathtaking segment of the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges;
    • Upon arrival in Badong county, you have the choice of two excursions:

      Option A: Wuyuan Cave (Included)

      (Explore the serene locale through a wooden sampan ride along an underground river, surrounded by the cave’s stunning rock formations.)

      Option B: Badong Museum and the Wu Gorge Lookout (Included)

      (The Badong Museum is a hidden gem in Hubei Province, offering a rich tapestry of local history, culture, and heritage. It serves as a gateway to understanding the unique traditions and stories of the Tujia and Miao ethnic minorities.)

      (Wu Gorge Lookout is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, featuring towering cliffs, emerald-green waters, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the glass hanging bridge leading to the lookout point offering an exhilarating and awe-inspiring experience.)

    • Enjoy an outdoor cultural show: A Journey through a Thousand Years in Badong at night (Included)

      (The performance weave together tales of integrity, love, bravery, and tradition, you’ll be captivated by the artistic expression and cultural pride that shine through every scene. It offers a unique opportunity to witness the cultural treasures of Badong come alive.);

  • Entertainment Onboard
    • Learn to play Tai Chi in early morning
    • Performance at the Tang Theatre
  • Dining
    Morning (Early Bird Tea or Coffee); Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet); Lunch (Chinese & Western Buffet); Dinner (Chinese & Western Buffet)
DAY 3
Fengjie
Qutang GorgeMagnificent Qutang Gorge (Kuimen Gate)
White Emperor CityWhite Emperor City in Fengjie
Three Gorges SummitThree Gorges Summit in Summer
  • Highlights of Today
    • Sail through Wu Gorge (Included).

      (Characterized by majestic peaks crowned by lush forests, Wu Gorge is said to be celestial. Legend has it that Yao Ji loved this area so much that she and her 12 attendants were transformed into the graceful peaks.);

    • Sail through Qutang Gorge (Included).

      (Qutang Gorge is the shortest, most dramatic and magnificent gorge among the three gorges and lets you admire the view of Kui Gate printed on the 10 RMB Chinese Note.);

    • After lunch, choose from three excursions in Fengjie:

      Option A: White Emperor City (Included)

      (A famous Chinese Ancient “Poem City” mentioned in about 1,400 Chinese poems. It tells the touching story of Liu Bei entrusting his son to his prime minister, Zhuge Liang and has the best location to admire Kuimen Gate of Qutang Gorge.)

      Option B: Poetic Trail in Qutang Gorge (Included)

      (This trail meanders up to the Three Gorges Summit offering one of the most classic hiking routes in the region, typically taking six hours to complete. In order to spare guests from too much fatigue, Yangtze Explorer select the essence of one hour.)

      Option C: Three Gorges Summit (Included)

      (Three Gorges Summit is the highest peak of the famous Three Gorges area to catch the most beautiful gorge and winding river sightseeing.)

  • Entertainment Onboard
    • Learn to play Tai Chi in early morning;
    • Attend a lecture on Chinese poetry by a local scholar
  • Dining
    Morning (Early Bird Tea or Coffee); Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet); Lunch (Chinese & Western Buffet); Dinner (Chinese & Western Buffet)
DAY 4
Zhongxian
Yangtze River Cruise - Shibaozhai PagodaRed Shibaozhai Pagoda in Zhongxian
  • Highlights of Today
    • After breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to choose from three carefully curated excursions:

      Option A: Shibaozhai Pagoda (Included)

      (The 12-story red building is reputed as the gem of Chinese architecture and one of the top 8 most peculiar architectures in the world. Popular among cruise visitors to look at the pagoda leaning the hills and climb up.)

      Option B: Xituo Ancient Town (Included)

      (Nestled among stunning natural landscapes, Xituo offers a glimpse into the daily life and rich cultural tapestry of its inhabitants. Dating back to the pre-Qin era, Xituo served as a crucial salt transfer station. Scholars consider it among the world’s earliest commercial and trading towns.)

      Option C: Huanghua Island (Included)

      (The island boasts a rich historical legacy dating back to the Song Dynasty. During this period, a fortified city was established on the island, creating one of China’s rarest isolated island-type defense systems. It still preserves the ruins of the ancient state government offices and city walls.)

  • Entertainment Onboard
    • Learn to play Tai Chi in early morning;
  • Dining
    Morning (Early Bird Tea or Coffee); Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet); Lunch (Chinese & Western Buffet); Dinner (Chinese & Western Buffet)
DAY 5
Disembarkation
photoChaotianmen Dock in Chongqing
  • Highlights of Today
    • Ship disembarkation at Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing around 09:00.

      (Chongqing is known as the “Mountain City” because mant mountains converge here, adn the Yangtze, Jialing and Fu rivers surround it, forming a unique landscape of mountains and rivers. It was once an important military stronghold and political center.)

    • Guests will be transferred to Chongqing Airport, Railway Station or downtown Chongqing.
  • Dining
    Breakfast (Chinese & Western Buffet)
Please Note:
  1. Subject to Change:

    Please note that all arrival and departure times, shore excursions and lectures are subject to change due to weather, river conditions and permission from the navigational authorities. The cruise company will arrange the same fabulous sightseeing if the prearranged sites cannot be visited in a particular case.

  2. ※ Cruise Declaration:

    In case of force majeure such as flood, low water level, weather or other safety reasons, the cruise company has the right to cancel or adjust the sailing schedule or change the itinerary and scenic spots at any time. The cruise and our company (yangtze-river-cruises.com) will not be liable for any loss caused to the guests by cancellation, adjustment of flight schedule and change of itinerary and scenic spots due to the above reasons.

  3. Embarkation Tips:

    (a) Please call the ship one day ahead or at least in the morning on the boarding day to have clear idea about which pier you are going to use; (b) It is better to arrive in Chongqing before 16:30 on the embarkation day; (c) There are 14 sub-pier of Chongqing Chaotianmen Port. As the car/taxi driver can only stop the car at the entrance of the port, you need to walk to your exact pier. Usually, it needs about 180 meters (about 3 minutes) to the nearest No.9 Dock, about 180-680 meters (about 3-8 minutes) to No.7, No.5, No.3 and No.1 Docks, and about 680-850 meters (about 10-15 minutes) to the No.2, No.4, No.6, No.8 and No.10 Docks from the east side, via the edge of the port to the west side; (d) The boarding time and departure piers may change based on the ship line, water level, season, weather and other factors. Please pay attention to the important info your travel consultants sent to you before your boarding.

  4. Disembarkation Tips:

    Luggage Consigning for Chongqing - Yichang Disembarkation: For the national policy about the security of the Three Gorges Dam Project, no large luggage (exceeding 20cm*40cm*50cm or 5kg) is allowed to be taken into Three Gorges Dam scenic area. You could consign your luggage to Yichang Three Gorges Center Cruise Terminal and get the luggage consigning document from the cruise staff on the 4th cruising day morning and gather it after you are in Yichang downtown by showing that document. The service is offered by the cruise company.

  5. Arranged Shore Excursion:

    The ARRANGED shore excursions are included in your quotation, so you could visit the sites without extra charge. However, if you do not visit the sites, the fees of arranged shore excursion sites are not refunded. If you do not visit the shore excursions, you could stay on the ship to enjoy some leisure time. And for your safety, you are not allowed to leave your ship on your own.

  6. About Three Gorges Project Ship Lift:

    Please be aware that the passage is subject to weather conditions and water levels, which may affect the transit. Additionally, the ship lift will undergo annual maintenance at the end of August, during which it will be closed for approx. 35 days.

  7. Optional Shore Excursions:

    The OPTIONAL shore excursion needs extra charge. The optional sites will be visited depending on the number of travelers who want to go. You can visit if there are 2-8 or more people interested (the number of visitors may be adjusted based on the real situation). You have the final decision where to go or not on your own. If yes, tell the reception desk who would register for you and receive your pay in site.

  8. Physical Demands:

    There are many stairs to climb up to Three Gorges Summit and reach the top of Shibaozhai Pagoda / White Emperor City. Comfortable shoes are highly recommended to visit these sites.

  9. Chongqing / Yichang Local Transportation:

    To know detailed transportation in Chongqing and Yichang, please head to How to Get to/Leave Yangtze Cruise Ports in Chongqing and Yichang.

  10. Dressing Code for Parties:

    Travelers who attend the Captain's Welcome Reception, Yangtze Pirate Night Show should wear smart casual or formal.

  11. More Travel Guide & Support:

    To know more details your life onboard, like cabins, dining, drinking, service, onboard activities and lectures, please head to Yangtze River Cruise Guide 2025. You’ll find everything here.

Schedule of Yangzi Explorer

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    Please Note:
    • The above price range is based on a standard cabin for twin sharing.
    • The prices are valid by Dec.31 of the year.
    • Please enquire us of the exact price according to your nationality, cruising time and cruising route.
    • The cruise prices for holidays such as National Holiday (the first week of October), Labor Day, Spring Festival, etc., are quoted upon request.
    • Limited winter schedules may be adjusted into other dates, cruise ships, etc. based on the arrangement of the cruise company.

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