Embark and Disembark of Yangtze River Cruise

Embarking and disembarking from a Yangtze River cruise can sometimes seem like a complicated process, especially when you're unfamiliar with the logistics and schedule. However, with proper planning, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable start and finish to your cruise experience. Below, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Yangtze River embarkation, disembarkation, and shore excursions, including essential tips to make your journey as stress-free as possible.

Before You Embark: Key Information and Tips

Booking with a China Tour Package

If your Yangtze River cruise is part of a China tour package with Yaso Trip, transfers from your airport or train station to the cruise ship are included. A tour guide will meet you and ensure you are safely transferred directly to the embarkation point. This service eliminates the hassle of navigating the port on your own, allowing you to focus on enjoying the start of your cruise.

Important Note: If you’ve booked only the Yangtze cruise (not part of a package), free transfer services may not be available. You will need to independently make your way to the dock.

Checking In Independently

If you decide to check-in on your own, be sure to have the following details on hand:

• Cruise ship itinerary (including departure time and port location)

• Exact dock number (which can vary, so it's important to confirm with us or your cruise company)

It is recommended that you arrive several hours before the cruise’s scheduled departure time to complete check-in smoothly.

Late Arrival?

If you anticipate being late for your cruise due to unexpected circumstances, please notify us immediately. We will contact the cruise company to inform them of your situation and assist with alternative solutions. It’s important to communicate with us as soon as possible to avoid missing your ship.

Early Disembarkation

If you need to disembark early (before the ship reaches its final destination), this is typically possible, but you must disembark at the nearest dock. Inform us in advance if you plan to leave earlier than expected so we can provide the correct fare and ensure a smooth process.

Shore Excursions: What to Expect During Your Journey

Shore Excursion Services

During shore excursions, local porters may offer a convenient service where they carry passengers in a bamboo chair. This service costs around CNY 20.00 - CNY 30.00 (approximately US$2.50 - US$4.00) and can be a helpful option for those with limited mobility or for travelers seeking extra comfort.

After disembarking from the ship, you will meet your guide, who will hold a sign with your name on it. They will then transfer you to the excursion sites via motor coach and return you to the ship after your visit.

Popular Shore Excursions

Some of the most famous shore excursions on the Yangtze River include:

• Ghost City (丰都鬼城)

• Shibaozhai (石宝寨)

• Wan County

• White Emperor City (白帝城)

• Small Three Gorges

• Shennong Stream

• Three Gorges Dam

• Jingzhou

• Yueyang Tower

The available shore excursions may vary depending on the cruise company and whether you're traveling upstream or downstream.

Embarking and Disembarking in Chongqing

Embarking in Chongqing

• Embarkation Pier: The embarkation pier for most Yangtze River cruises departing from Chongqing is Chaotianmen Dock. However, this area has multiple piers, so it's essential to verify the exact dock number with your cruise company or us prior to departure.

• Check-In Time: Typically, the earliest check-in time for a cruise departing from Chongqing is 4:00 PM. This allows enough time to get settled and prepared for departure.

• Dinner on Embarkation Day: Dinner is not included in your cruise ticket on embarkation day. However, you can opt for a la carte meals onboard for an additional fee.

• Check-Out for Upstream Cruises: If you're on an upstream cruise (from Yichang to Chongqing), you will generally check out around 9:00 AM at Chaotianmen Dock.

Embarking and Disembarking in Yichang

Embarking in Yichang

Since 2018, cruise ships on the Yangtze River no longer pass through the Three Gorges Dam locks. Passengers must embark and disembark at Maoping Pier, Yichang.

For Downstream Passengers (3-Night Cruise)

• On Day 4, passengers will disembark at Maoping Pier and be transferred to the Yichang Tourist Center by motor coach after visiting the Three Gorges Dam.

  • Arrival Time: Around 12:30 PM. If you choose to take the ship-lift experience at the Three Gorges Dam, your arrival will be around 1:30 PM.

For Upstream Passengers (4-Night Cruise)

• On Day 1, passengers should go to the Yichang Sanxia Tourist Center (located at 142 Yanjiang Avenue, opposite **Wanda Plaza) between 5:30 PM and 8:00 PM to receive a free shuttle ticket. After presenting your passport, you’ll take a complimentary coach to Maoping Pier.

• Upon arrival, the cruise company's representative will guide you to the cruise ship for check-in, which will occur on the main deck.

What to Do if You Need to Disembark Early

Early Disembarkation

If you plan to disembark early or need to leave the cruise earlier than scheduled, you must inform the cruise company or us in advance. Early disembarkation is typically allowed only at the nearest available dock, and additional fees may apply, depending on where the ship docks.

Please also note that any changes to the docking schedule, including a request to dock at an unplanned location, will increase the cost of your trip.

Essential Travel Tips for Embarkation and Disembarkation

Transportation Convenience

• Chongqing: Jiangbei International Airport and Chongqing West Station are the main transportation hubs that connect you to the embarkation pier.

• Yichang: Sanxia International Airport and Yichang East Railway Station are the primary points of entry for passengers embarking in Yichang.

If you're flying into Chongqing or Yichang, make sure to check the most convenient transportation options to the embarkation port. Choosing a departure port with easier access can make your trip more enjoyable.

Travel Time and Itinerary Flexibility

Your available travel time will significantly impact which cruise you choose. If you're limited to just 4 days, a downstream cruise is the best option. For those with 5 days or more, an upstream cruise offers a more relaxed itinerary, providing an additional shore excursion and a slower pace, allowing you to explore in greater depth.