What is Three Gorges Cruise
Starting from Chaotianmen Port in Chongqing, following the Yangtze River, passing through Qutang Gorge, Wuxia Gorge, and Xiling Gorge, and arriving in Yichang (or vice versa). It is the most effortless way to see the Three Gorges - staying on a boat, traveling with a group on the shore, known as the "water mobile hotel". The classic Yuyi Line accounts for over 70% of the market's transportation volume.
How to choose a ship (three levels in 2026)
- Economy type (about ¥ 1400-2500/person): Interstellar series, Changjiang Impression, etc., with basic facilities but full coverage of core attractions, suitable for budget limited and scenic backpackers..
- Mainstream five-star (approximately ¥ 2500-5000/person):Gold, Presidential, and Meiweiseries, mainly featuring balcony rooms, fully equipped with temperature controlled swimming pools and children's playgrounds, making it the first choice for family outings..
- High end quality (approximately ¥ 5000-8000+/person):Centuryseries (Honor/Kaige/Oasis/Yuanhang), Yangtze River Exploration, etc., new ships, silent, all inclusive, catering benchmarking five-star hotels..
Route:Launch(Chongqing → Yichang, 4 days and 3 nights) Fast downstream rhythm; Sheung Shui(Yichang → Chongqing, 5 days and 4 nights) One more day, more relaxed viewing experience.. Choose the classic line for 4-5 days for the first experience.
Boarding and Route
- Boarding Point: Chaotianmen Port in Chongqing(The specific berth is subject to the ticket, usually boarding from 18:00 to 21:00 in the evening. Whether dinner is included on the night of boarding needs to be checked)..
- Classic attractions: Fengdu Ghost City, Zhongxian Shibaozhai, Fengjie Baidi City, Wushan Xiaosanxia, Sanxia Dam..
- Terminal: Most people go to Yichang and can take the high-speed rail back to Chongqing or continue to visit Wuhan..
Guide to Avoiding Pits
- Identify official channels: Ship tickets are not sold through 12306, be wary of the low price temptation of personal agents and dock scalpers, and choose official authorized agents..
- Clarify the concept of "all inclusive": Most boat tickets include accommodation, three meals, and 3-4 onshore attractions, butboat lift experience (about ¥ 290), "Three Kingdoms of Flames", etc. are usually self funded.; When booking tickets, ask if dinner on the night of boarding is included.
- Advance booking: During peak seasons (April May, September October, winter and summer vacations), booking 1-3 months in advance can save up to 15% on early bird bookings..
- With identification: Real name ticket purchase has been made, please check your ID card on board.; There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening on the river, so prepare a coat.