Yangtze Gold Cruises 2026: The Top 6 Ships You Should Know About
Yangtze Gold Cruises is a luxury cruise line offering eco-friendly, electric-powered river cruises on the Yangtze River. Their ships feature cutting-edge technology, including advanced propulsion systems, which provide a quiet, vibration-free, and sustainable cruising experience. With a commitment to environmental responsibility, Yangtze Gold Cruises utilizes smart facilities and eco-friendly materials throughout its fleet.
The fleet consists of six 5-star ships, operating primarily between Chongqing and Yichang, showcasing the most scenic sections of the Yangtze River. The Century Voyage, launched in 2024, is the largest and most luxurious of the fleet, offering unmatched comfort and style. Other vessels like the Century Oasis, Century Victory, and Century Glory represent a new generation of luxury ships, while the Century Paragon and Century Legend exude timeless elegance.
Yangtze Gold Cruises has received multiple prestigious awards, including Magellan Awards from Travel Weekly and the title of "Best River Cruise Company in Asia" at the World Cruise Awards in 2022. Experience the beauty of the Yangtze River with a premium luxury cruise that combines modern technology, exceptional service, and breathtaking scenery.
Why Choose Yangtze Gold Cruises for Your Yangtze River Adventure
01
Exquisite Comfort and Spacious Accommodations
Relax in luxurious cabins featuring private balconies, modern interiors, and cutting-edge amenities, providing a serene and comfortable environment throughout your journey.
02
A Culinary Journey
Delight in a fusion of Western and Chinese flavors with gourmet dining options, complemented by snacks available all day and late-night bites, ensuring a perfect dining experience.
03
Breathtaking Scenic Routes
Embark on a voyage through the Three Gorges (Qutang, Wu, and Xiling Gorges), experiencing some of the most stunning natural landscapes along the Yangtze River.
04
Immersive Shore Excursions
Explore renowned cultural and historical landmarks such as the Three Gorges Dam, Shennv Stream, and Fengdu Ghost City, each offering unique insights into the region’s heritage.
05
Vibrant Onboard Experiences
Take part in engaging activities like Tai Chi, tea ceremonies, live performances, and lively themed parties that enrich your cruise experience and provide entertainment throughout your journey.
06
Exclusive Onboard Services
Enjoy special amenities, including a complimentary Embarkation Buffet Dinner, free Wi-Fi, and porter service, making your trip even more convenient and enjoyable.
Yangtze Gold Cruises 2026: Top 6 Ships You Shouldn’t Miss
Discover Yangtze Gold Cruises’ Exciting 2026 Itineraries
Yangtze Gold Cruises offers round-trip voyages between Chongqing and Yichang, with each ship offering unique itineraries to explore the best of the Yangtze River. Most cruises include captivating shore excursions to iconic sites such as the Three Gorges Dam, Shennv Stream, and Fengdu Ghost City. The Century Voyage offers even more flexibility, allowing passengers to choose between additional excursions like White Emperor City and The Peak of the Three Gorges. Below is an overview of the typical itinerary and a reference map. For more detailed information, please check the individual pages for each ship.
4 Days 3 Nights Chongqing to Yichang
5 Days 4 Nights Yichang to Chongqing
Day 1
Boarding in Chongqing
| 18:00 |
Boarding in Chongqing
Note: The itinerary is for reference only, subject to the embarkation briefing. |
N/A |
| 20:30 |
Embarkation briefing |
| 21:00 |
Depart from Chongqing |
Day 2
Shore Excursion to the Ghost City of Fengdu, Shuangguishan Mountain, Three Kingdoms Live Show
| 7:00 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast,
Lunch,
Dinner |
| 8:00 |
Shore Excursion to the Ghost City of Fengdu
and Optional Tour to Shuangguishan Mountain |
| 12:00 |
Lunch (Buffet) |
| 16:00 |
Captain Welcome Party |
| 18:00 |
Dinner (Buffet) |
| 19:30 |
Optional Tour to the Three Kingdoms Live Show |
| 20:30 |
Dancing Party |
Day 3
Excursion to The Lesser Three Gorges, The White Emperor City, The Mini Three Gorges and Dachang Ancient Town
| 7:30 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast,
Lunch,
Dinner |
| 8:00 |
Optional Tour to the White Emperor City (Around 3 Hours) |
| 12:00 |
Set Sail, Passing Through Qutang Gorge |
| 12:30 |
Lunch (Buffet) |
| 13:30 |
Boat Excursion to The Lesser Three Gorges
and Optional Tour to The Mini Three Gorges and Dachang Ancient Town |
| 19:00 |
Dinner |
| 20:00 |
Check Out |
| 20:30 |
The Gold Crew Talent Show / Farewell Party |
Day 4
Shore Excursion to The Three Gorges Dam, the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift
| 7:00 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast |
| 8:00 |
Shore Excursion to The Three Gorges Dam |
| 12:30 |
Arrival at Yichang |
| Optional Attraction |
A: Optional Tour to the Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift (Arrival at Yichang at about 13:30)
B: Optional Tour to the Tribe of The Three Gorges Dam (Arrival at Yichang at about 17:00) |
Day 1
Boarding in Maoping of Yichang
| 18:00 |
A. Boarding in Maoping
Note: The itinerary is for reference only, subject to the embarkation briefing. |
N/A |
| 17:30-20:00 |
B. The Three Gorges Tourist Center offers free rides to the dock for boarding. |
| 21:00 |
Embarkation Briefing |
Day 2
The Three Gorges Tribe, The Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift
| 7:00 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast,
Lunch,
Dinner |
| 08:30-12:30 |
Optional Tour to The Three Gorges Tribe |
| 12:30 |
Lunch (Buffet) |
| 14:00 |
Shore Excursion to The Three Gorges Dam |
| 14:00-18:00 |
Optional Tour to The Three Gorges Dam Ship Lift |
| 18:30 |
Dinner (Buffet) |
| 20:00 |
Captain Welcome Party |
Day 3
Cruise to Wu Gorge, Qutang Gorge, Excursion to The Lesser Three Gorges, White Emperor City
| 7:00 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast,
Lunch,
Dinner |
| 7:00 |
Set Sail, Passing Through The Wu Gorge |
| 8:00 |
Boat Excursion to The Lesser Three Gorges
and Optional Tour to The Mini Three Gorges and Dachang Ancient Town |
| 12:30 |
Lunch (Buffet) |
| 14:30 |
Set Sail, Passing Through The Qutang Gorge |
| 15:30 |
Optional Tour to White Emperor City |
| 19:00 |
Dinner (Buffet) |
| 20:30 |
The Gold Crew Talent Show |
Day 4
Shore Excursion to The Ghost City of Fengdu, Shuangguishan Mountain
| 7:30 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast,
Lunch,
Dinner |
| 12:00 |
Lunch (Buffet) |
| 15:30 |
Shore Excursion to The Ghost City of Fengdu
and Optional Tour to Shuangguishan Mountain |
| 19:00 |
Dinner |
| 20:00 |
Check Out |
| 20:30 |
Dancing Party |
Day 5
Disembarkation at Chongqing
| 7:00 |
Breakfast (Buffet) |
Breakfast |
| 9:00 |
Disembarkation at Chongqing |
Dining and Bars on Yangtze Gold Cruises
Yangtze Gold Cruises presents a diverse selection of dining options, featuring a blend of China’s four major cuisines along with an array of Western-style meals. Savor the bold flavors of authentic Sichuan cuisine, known for its fresh, spicy, and aromatic dishes that promise a true culinary experience. For a more relaxed atmosphere, enjoy a BBQ on the deck with friends while feeling the river breeze. The viewing bar offers a perfect spot to indulge in delectable dishes while taking in the stunning scenery along the river.
Unique and Luxurious Experiences on Yangtze Gold Cruises
Yangtze Gold Cruises offers an exceptional array of luxurious onboard facilities, designed to cater to all types of travelers. Enjoy the thrill of a helipad, unwind on the outdoor golf course, take a stroll along the pedestrian street, or relax by the swimming pool. For those seeking a more social experience, indulge in an open-air barbecue on deck. The ship also features a double-deck theater, a fun-filled children’s playground, billiards, a simulated driving area, and the largest number of sightseeing elevators, providing spectacular views of the river.
Beyond the luxury amenities, guests can partake in exclusive experiences, including guided narrations that enhance the cruise's cultural significance, along with a selection of shore excursions, allowing you to explore the beauty and history of the Yangtze River and its surroundings.
Best Yangtze Cruise Ships Travel Tips
This guide covers everything you need to know about Yangtze River cruises, from curated recommendations for the best luxury, large, affordable, family-friendly, and new ships to essential travel advice. It also explains the best time to cruise across all 12 months, with popular seasons being April–May and September–October, depending on weather, crowds, and personal preference. You’ll find practical tips on planning your trip to experience the Yangtze’s stunning scenery, historic sites, and rich culture, as well as straightforward information on booking through Yaso Trip with help from our expert team. Additionally, the guide provides clear directions on how to get to Chaotianmen Dock and other major Yangtze cruise ports from Chongqing, Yichang, and beyond, and clarifies the key differences between upstream and downstream cruises, including variations in duration, pace, and scenic highlights to help you choose your ideal journey.
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