Three Gorges Cruise FAQ

Why do Three Gorges cruises need to be booked in advance?

Berths on Three Gorges cruises are fixed and limited — all operating cruises together offer roughly 2,000-3,000 berths per day, while tens of thousands of travelers head to Chongqing and Hubei each day in peak season, so demand far exceeds supply. Buying a ticket only upon arrival at the pier often means no tickets are left, or scalpers are reselling them for hundreds or even thousands of yuan above the normal price. Booking early through official channels is therefore recommended.

How far in advance should I book a Three Gorges cruise?

Cruise cabins are usually pre-sold in overseas markets first and then released for domestic sales. Mainland Chinese travelers are advised to book at least 1 month in advance, and foreign travelers at least 3 months in advance. Some departure dates offer early-bird discounts: booking 60 or more days ahead qualifies for early-bird pricing. For peak-season sailings, place your order at least one week ahead; if cabins are still available, you can book as late as one day before departure, but cabins may sell out at any time.

What is the online booking process for a Three Gorges cruise?

The standard process has four steps:

1) Choose a ship — select the cruise and room type based on departure date and budget; 2) Place the order and pay — cabin availability changes constantly, so pay promptly once you have chosen, or ask customer service to hold the cabin first; 3) Secondary confirmation and contract — after payment, customer service re-confirms the cabin (payment alone does not guarantee the booking). Once availability is confirmed, a travel contract is signed. If sold out, you can switch room type, departure date, ship, or request a refund; 4) Boarding notice — customer service notifies you of the exact pier, meeting point, and time one day before boarding. Bring the original documents used at booking.

It is recommended to book your cruise ticket before booking flights or trains. Real-name ticketing requires the full name, document number, and phone number of every traveler in advance.

How do the deposit, contract, and full payment process work?

After booking a cruise ticket, a deposit is generally required first so the booking agent can lock in your cabin. Once the cabin is secured, a travel contract must be signed and the full balance paid, at which point the booking takes effect. If the ticket booking fails for any reason, all payments are refunded in full via the original payment method.

Can I pay when boarding? Is full payment required in advance?

No. Regardless of which travel agency or booking channel you use, the full amount must be paid in advance to guarantee boarding — cruises depart on schedule, and the cruise line will not hold a cabin without payment. This is standard industry practice for cruise bookings.

Are there paper tickets for Three Gorges cruises?

Real-name electronic ticketing has been fully implemented, so no paper ticket is needed. You board directly with the original documents provided at booking: mainland Chinese residents use their ID card, foreign travelers use their passport, and travelers from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan use the corresponding permit originals.

What should I keep in mind before booking a cruise?

1) Take care of your health and take precautions in crowded places; 2) Book as early as possible to avoid price increases or sold-out cabins; 3) Established cruise brands offer more assurance — do not judge a ship solely by how new or large it is, since tonnage and quality do not always go hand in hand: the Yangzi Explorer, launched in 2008 at just over 5,800 tons, is widely recognized as the finest cruise on the Yangtze; 4) Compare options and do your research — no matter which official channel you book through, the service on board is the same.

Does booking early guarantee a better cabin?

Booking early does not directly determine your final assigned cabin; it only increases the likelihood of securing one. Unlike hotels, cruises do not allow you to reserve a specific room — you book by room type, and specific cabins are assigned by the cruise line. After boarding, if you wish to move to a higher deck and cabins are available, you must pay the deck-upgrade difference yourself.

Do cruises offer "value for money" tiers?

There is no real "value-for-money" concept for cruises: a more expensive ship is generally better than a cheaper one in facilities, dining, and service, and how much better depends on how much more you pay. A better ship will not cost less (except during special promotions). We suggest reviewing each ship's specifications first, then narrowing your options by budget and preferences.

How do I choose a ship? How do I pick between cruise brands and classes?

The main premium Three Gorges cruise brands include: Century Cruises (super five-star flagship), Yangtze Gold Cruises, President Cruises, Huaxia Cruises (Goddess series), Interstellar Cruises, Changhang Cruises, Changjiang Xing Cruises, Chutian Cruises, and Chongqing Passenger Ships. Choose by budget and preference: the most luxurious is widely considered the Yangzi Explorer (nearly 1:1 crew-to-guest ratio, 148 guests fully loaded, passes the ship lift on its own hull, offers a special Shennongjia route — great for travelers with seniors or children); the newest and best-equipped include Changjiang Xing Lanyue/Aurora, Yangtze River Cloud Sail, and Yangtze 3; the most distinctive is the Huaxia Goddess series. When choosing, consider route direction, budget, room type, included sights, and travel companions (whether seniors or children are with you), or start narrowing options with the 7-level budget quick-reference table on the homepage.

How do I choose a cabin?

The deluxe standard cabin is the base room type, about 15-20 sqm; executive suites are about 25-35 sqm with VIP privileges; presidential suites are the top category at 40 sqm or more. Cabins with a private balcony are recommended, so you can enjoy the gorge scenery at any time.

Are there fake "official websites" for online booking? How do I tell them apart?

Counterfeit "official websites" do exist — some scammers build lookalike sites to deceive consumers. Choose booking channels carefully: book through legitimate websites or licensed travel agencies, and never pay into a personal account.

Why do cruise ticket prices fluctuate?

Ticket prices may rise or fall depending on when you book — a normal market adjustment similar to airfares. The price at the time of purchase applies. Even for the same ship and room type, the difference between peak and low season is significant.

How are children charged?

Children under 12 generally purchase child tickets. Standards vary by cruise line; common benchmarks are:

· Infants under 2: most lines are free without a bed or charge 10% of the adult fare; a few lines are free under age 1 and charge 20% for ages 1-2.
· Ages 2-12: typically 50%-67% of the adult fare without a bed, or 75%-100% with a bed; some lines charge a flat 60% of the adult fare.

Child fare policies differ across cruise lines; the customer service reply and written confirmation at the time of booking prevail.

Are there discounts for seniors?

Three Gorges cruise tickets offer no senior discount — everyone over 12 pays the same fare. Some optional shore activities offer senior discounts, which can be enjoyed when signing up on board.

What is the best room setup for 2 adults and 2 children?

If the children are under 12, you can stay in one room with an extra bed added. If you prefer more space, book two rooms with the children occupying beds. Costs follow each ship's child fare standards.

What are the cancellation fee standards?

The general standard (counted in calendar days before departure): 10% fee for cancellations 30 or more days before departure; 30% for 15-29 days; 50% for 11-14 days; and 100% within 10 days of departure or after departure.

Note: Each cruise line has more detailed tiered standards (fee-free periods and percentages all differ). Holiday sailings, chartered sailings, and special products such as promotional and early-bird fares have stricter refund and change rules. Orders from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and foreign travelers are in principle non-refundable and non-changeable. Specific terms are subject to the written contract and customer service confirmation at the time of booking.

What are the rules for changing dates (rescheduling)?

For non-holiday, non-chartered sailings, you can generally reschedule to a later departure within a certain number of days before departure (commonly 15-30 days): not allowed if the new sailing is fully booked; if the new sailing is more expensive you pay the difference, and if cheaper the difference is not refunded; changes are generally not processed within 15 days of departure; rescheduling is allowed only once, with a fee of 10% of the order amount; if you still fail to sail after rescheduling, the booking is voided as of the original date. Some channels waive the fee for changes made more than 30 days before departure.

Note: Standards vary by cruise line and channel; the written confirmation at the time of booking prevails.

Any special notes on refunds and changes?

1) "Days" means calendar days, based on Beijing time; 2) Tickets are valid only for the departure date shown — they are void after that date with no refund; 3) For holiday, chartered, and group sailings, as well as orders from Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and foreign travelers, refunds and changes are in principle not allowed. Where genuinely necessary, supporting evidence must be provided, and the cruise line's actual review result prevails; 4) Holiday sailings are those falling partly or entirely within national statutory holidays or major local festivals (including one day before and after); Spring Festival sailings cover New Year's Eve through the 15th day of the first lunar month; 5) Cancellations caused by force majeure or events the cruise line cannot avoid (such as hull/machinery failures or port congestion) are not the responsibility of the cruise line or the booking agent.

If I fail to board on time (miss the ship), can I get a refund?

No. The cruise keeps moving, and the vacant berth cannot be resold to other travelers at short notice. If you miss the ship due to your own reasons or third-party reasons (such as flight or train delays), the ticket cost cannot be refunded. Travelers must board on time as notified.

What happens if the cruise is suspended, canceled, or affected by force majeure?

If the original ship cannot operate due to unscheduled maintenance, chartering, or government requisition, the cruise line generally transfers booked travelers to another ship of the same class or slightly better — in principle, the ship standard will not be lowered. Travelers who decline the substitute ship receive a full refund. If a chartering prevents travel, the agent generally covers travelers' rebooking fees for changed transportation dates. In case of floods, low water, weather, or other force majeure, the cruise has the right to cancel, advance, postpone, or alter the route/port calls without prior notice and without liability; in such cases, assistance can be provided to switch ships (with any fare difference refunded or charged) or to refund payments already made.

What happens on boarding day, and what should I keep in mind?

1) Confirm the ship's exact docking pier with customer service on boarding day; 2) Complete check-in two hours before departure — present your order and valid documents at the ship's main service desk to check in, receive your room card (which doubles as your room key and dining pass) with your documents, pass security, and queue to board; 3) After entering your cabin, check the door lock, air conditioning, outlets, bathroom, and bedding, and contact the front desk immediately if anything is wrong; 4) Read the emergency evacuation diagram behind the cabin door and locate the life jackets and how to wear them; 5) Meet your guide, confirm your fixed restaurant seat, and get familiar with the entertainment facilities and service phone numbers; 6) Keep valuables safe or in the in-room safe, and remember your room number. The main service desk offers assistance around the clock.

What should I prepare before the cruise?

1) Documents (most important): original travel documents of all passengers (ID card, passport, or household registration booklet) — required for boarding, check-in, and security checks. Check validity before departure; 2) Clothing: comfortable casual clothes, non-slip walking shoes (shore visits involve lots of walking), a light jacket or windbreaker (decks are windy and mornings/evenings are cool), sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, a compact raincoat or umbrella, swimwear (some ships have pools). Bring sweaters or jackets for spring/autumn and down jackets for winter; 3) Daily essentials: toiletries, chargers and power banks, common medicines (cold remedies, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills), sunscreen and mosquito repellent; 4) Small cash: bring RMB 100-500 in small notes for cable cars, cold drinks, special admission tickets, and other small shore expenses; 5) You may bring sealed packaged snacks on board.

What if I miss the ship on boarding day?

Cruises departing Chongqing generally begin boarding around 18:00 and depart around 21:00 the same evening (if channel controls apply, guests may instead be transferred by coach to Fengdu or Fuling to board, meeting in Chongqing around 14:00-16:00). If you are delayed, call the ship's front desk first to confirm the latest boarding time; if you truly cannot make it, ask which pier the ship docks at next and travel there on your own to board. Cruises departing Yichang generally board around 20:00 the same evening; from 17:30-20:00 a dedicated shuttle runs from Yichang East Railway Station or the Three Gorges Visitor Center to Zigui Port. If you miss it, you can take a taxi to Zigui Pier yourself — the ship does not depart until the next morning.

Why do Three Gorges cruises sometimes require a "transfer" (boarding at a different pier)?

A "transfer" means boarding or disembarking at a different pier than originally scheduled, with the cruise line arranging ground transportation. Under Yangtze River maritime regulations, when the water level at Chongqing Yangjiaotan falls below 5.0 meters and the water level in front of the Three Gorges dam falls below 152.0 meters, vessels over 130 meters in length may not sail upstream beyond Fuling Lidu — ships then dock at Fengdu or Fuling Port. Upstream travelers disembarking are transferred to downtown Chongqing, while downstream travelers board from the city and are transferred to Fengdu or Fuling to board (about a 2-3 hour drive). Transfers may also occur during high flood levels, severe weather, or when authorities issue no-sail notices. Transfers are mandatory requirements issued by maritime authorities based on real-time water levels — not decisions by the cruise line or booking agent. Ships under 130 meters (Yangtze Ruge, Interstellar Athena/Apollo, Huaxia No. 2, etc.) have an extremely low chance of transfers. Please cooperate if a transfer occurs; the transfer time may be 1-2 hours earlier than originally planned.

Which sights are viewed from the ship, and which require going ashore?

The Three Great Gorges (Qutang Gorge, Wu Gorge, Xiling Gorge) and Goddess Peak are viewed from the ship with no admission ticket — your viewing position matters, so listen for onboard announcements. Sights requiring shore excursions include Fengdu Ghost City, Zhang Fei Temple, Shibaozhai, the Lesser Three Gorges, Baidicheng, Qu Yuan Temple, Shennong Stream, the Three Gorges Dam, Yueyang Tower, and the Ancient City of Jingzhou (different ships and up/downstream routes cover different sights). When going ashore, memorize the pier name and departure time — you must return to the ship before it sails.

What should I keep in mind during shore excursions and the stay on board?

1) Mind your personal and belongings safety and guard against falls into the river (especially watch children). Carry cash and valuables with you and lock the cabin door when leaving; 2) Almost all shore sights involve uphill walks and steps — wear comfortable shoes; 3) Gorge weather is unpredictable — rain gear is a must; 4) River wind on deck is strong: bring a light jacket for spring/autumn, a down jacket for winter, and sunglasses and sunscreen for summer; 5) During shore excursions, do not take photos while walking, stay away from cliff edges and riverside railings, do not leave the group, and do not enter closed areas; seniors and children must be accompanied at all times; 6) Strictly observe return times (the ship departs punctually and will not wait for individuals) and remember the meeting point; 7) Be cautious when buying local specialty products, and travel courteously.

What is the difference between upstream and downstream cruises? Which should I choose?

Upstream (Yichang to Chongqing) sails against the current, usually 5 days 4 nights. It travels slowly (about 15-18 km/h), allowing a relaxed schedule, more leisurely shore excursions, and more lectures and entertainment, and is typically 10-30% cheaper than downstream; the drawback is that lock passage often occurs in the early morning hours. Downstream (Chongqing to Yichang) sails with the current, usually 4 days 3 nights. It is fast (about 28-30 km/h), sails little at night so sleep is not disturbed, and daytime port calls are punctual; the drawbacks are higher cost and quicker gorge passage (Qutang Gorge takes only a few minutes — have your camera ready). Both directions cover essentially the same sights and services, and upstream usually includes one extra shore excursion (such as Three Gorges Tribe or Fengdu Ghost City). Downstream suits travelers short on time; upstream suits those with ample vacation time who prefer an in-depth trip. Consider your vacation length and transport convenience at both end cities.

When do Three Gorges cruises operate each year? Which season is best?

Premium cruises generally begin operating in March-April each year and are gradually laid up for maintenance from November, with a few sailings around Spring Festival. April 15 onward, May, September, and October are peak season; before April 15, June-August, and November are shoulder season. The best seasons are spring (March-May, mild weather and mountain flowers in bloom) and autumn (September-November, colorful foliage), with late November to early December the best time to see the Three Gorges red leaves. Summer offers abundant water and more spectacular gorges but is hotter; winter has discounted prices but some routes suspend operations.

Do all Three Gorges cruises pass the five-stage ship lock? What about the ship lift?

Most cruises on the Chongqing-Yichang route do not pass the Three Gorges Dam's five-stage ship lock on the same hull. Instead they dock at Maoping Port, Sandouping Port, or Zigui Port upstream of the dam; travelers tour the Three Gorges Dam scenic area and then travel by coach "over the dam" to downtown Yichang. Cruise lines generally provide free transfer service between downtown Yichang and the port; travelers must arrive at the designated meeting point on time. To experience dam passage: join the Three Gorges ship lift excursion at your own expense (transferring to a sightseeing boat, generally RMB 200-300 per person, not mandatory); or choose Yangtze 1 or the Yangzi Explorer (which pass the ship lift on their own hull); or choose longer Chongqing-Wuhan/Nanjing/Shanghai routes (Yangtze 2, Yangtze Memory, President No. 7, Century Legend, etc., which pass both the five-stage lock and the Gezhouba lock). Actual arrangements follow each cruise line's schedule.

Can I leave the tour group midway and explore on my own?

For safety reasons, leaving the group is not allowed except during scheduled free time. If you want more freedom, choose an independent travel product instead. For packaged group products, fees for unused services cannot be refunded separately if you leave midway, and you must sign a departure agreement with the guide before leaving.

Are there partial routes covering only one section (e.g., Fengjie to Yichang)?

Yes. Besides full-length routes, you can choose segmented routes such as Fengjie to Yichang. The 3-day 2-night short route suits travelers on tight schedules — although brief, it still covers the core scenery along both banks of the Three Gorges.

Is a higher deck always better on a cruise? Does staying on a higher floor cost extra?

Not necessarily. Premium cruises typically have 5/6/7 decks: cabins generally start from deck 2, which is busy and often near the restaurant, so it can be noisy; decks 5-6 mostly hold premium room types and concentrated entertainment facilities, which are also noisy. The best value is usually deck 3 on 5-deck ships and decks 3-4 on 6-7 deck ships (presidential suites are usually on lower decks). Bookings default to deck 2 (base deck); staying higher requires a paid "deck upgrade." Upgrade fees vary by ship (roughly RMB 100-600 per person per deck) — each cruise line's rules prevail. According to traveler feedback, moving up one or two decks makes little difference, while going too high puts you near the entertainment deck, which is noisier.

Do Three Gorges cruises sail at night? Will it affect my sleep?

Night sailing is common to keep to schedule, but it generally does not affect sleep. China's inland river cruise construction technology is advanced: new ships are essentially electrically propelled, with engines mostly installed amidships-aft below the waterline, and cabins are soundproofed, so noise and vibration are effectively reduced. Travelers sensitive to noise can choose electrically propelled ships (such as Century Glory, Century Victory Song, Century Oasis, Victoria Sabrina, Huaxia Goddess No. 3, Yangtze 3) or ships launched after 2019, or upgrade to a higher deck or better room type.

Do all cruise cabins have windows? Are there triple cabins?

Standard room types all have windows and private balconies; a few ships have windowless inside cabins (clearly disclosed at sale and priced lower). Standard cabins are twin rooms — there are no triple cabins. For three travelers sharing, most ships can arrange an extra bed in one room.

Which deck is the restaurant on? What form does dining take?

The main restaurant is usually on deck 2, open to all guests free of charge, serving Chinese and Western buffet meals; a few ships serve dinner as set menus. Some ships have a VIP restaurant for suite guests or available for a fee. Some newer ships serve all three meals buffet-style and offer free late-night snacks.

How is dining on standard (non-premium) cruises? Should I bring my own food?

Tickets on standard (non-premium) cruises usually exclude meals, and onboard dining is relatively expensive with limited options — bring snacks, bottled water, instant noodles, and similar items on board. Ships also sell basic food and daily necessities, but the selection is small and prices high. Premium cruises include meals, so this is not an issue.

Is there WiFi on board? Can I get online?

4G coverage is essentially continuous along the Yangtze Three Gorges, so mobile data works throughout. Most ships offer free WiFi (ask the main service desk for the password), but speeds are average; some ships have paid internet areas. Some newer ships offer full-ship satellite WiFi.

Will I get bored on board? What entertainment facilities are there?

Besides sightseeing and deck viewing, ships offer free song-and-dance shows and various themed lectures; bars, KTV, spa, gym, swimming pool, coffee bar, mahjong and card rooms, game rooms, and more. Newer ships even have cinemas and mini golf. Tickets usually include the crew's song-and-dance gala and welcome/farewell parties.

What if I get sick during the cruise?

Premium cruises have a medical office with a ship's doctor available for house calls around the clock. Medical services cost extra but are relatively inexpensive; you may also bring your own common medicines.

Can I smoke on board?

Premium Three Gorges cruises are smoke-free ships: smoking is strictly prohibited in indoor areas such as cabins, corridors, and restaurants. Please use designated smoking areas (a few ships have cigar bars) and dispose of cigarette butts properly. Each ship's actual rules prevail.

What about drinking water on board? Should I bring my own kettle?

Each cabin is provided with 2 bottles of mineral water daily, and every room has an electric kettle, so you can boil water yourself — no need to bring one. Note: high-power appliances (such as personal kettles over 600 watts) are prohibited on board.

Will I get seasick on a Three Gorges cruise?

Since the Three Gorges project was completed, the reservoir water is calm, and with hulls of 4,000-18,000 tons, walking around the ship feels like solid ground — seasickness is very rare. Downstream sailing with the current is even smoother, suiting travelers worried about motion sickness.

Do I need to tip on a Three Gorges cruise?

There is no mandatory tipping rule — it is entirely at your discretion, and the same service is provided whether or not you tip. If you wish to tip, RMB 30-40 is typical. Some premium ships add a small daily service charge to your onboard bill, settled together at disembarkation — no separate tips needed; tipping standards differ between ships.

What documents do I need to board?

Mainland Chinese residents must carry a valid original ID card (always checked for boarding, check-in, and security); e-tickets can be processed directly with the ID card. Minors under 16 may use the original household registration booklet; those over 16 without an ID card must obtain an identity certificate from their place of household registration. Original passports and household registration booklets are both valid travel documents. Check document validity before departure. Purchasing travel accident insurance is recommended.

What should foreign travelers and travelers from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan know? How do they book?

Documents: Foreign travelers must carry a valid passport and a valid Chinese visa (usually an L tourist visa or a visa type matching the itinerary), with document details matching the booking. Hong Kong and Macau residents must carry the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (Home Return Permit); Taiwan residents must carry the Mainland Travel Permit for Taiwan Residents (Taiwan Compatriot Permit). Booking: Fares for foreign travelers and travelers from Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan differ from mainland fares, and each cruise line charges different rates by region. Real-name booking is required — please consult customer service for exact prices.

Is there an age limit for Three Gorges cruises? What are the requirements for seniors and minors?

The Three Gorges section has calm water and slow sailing speeds, with all meals and lodging on board, so there is essentially no age limit — from centenarians to infants — and it is especially suitable for seniors. However, minors (under 18) and travelers over 70 must be in good health and accompanied by a guardian or family member. Minors must travel with their guardian; travelers over 70 must sign a guardianship commitment; those traveling alone must also sign a health declaration and liability waiver.

Note: Some cruise lines are stricter — travelers aged 80 and above must provide a Health Declaration Form and a Letter of Guarantee, accompanied by a younger relative. Each cruise line's actual rules prevail.

Who is advised not to join a cruise tour?

Travelers with infectious diseases, severe cardiovascular or cerebrovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, mental illness, severe anemia, those recovering from major surgery, and those with limited mobility should inform the travel agency and are advised not to join a group tour. Travelers with limited mobility who do join must be accompanied by an able-bodied adult throughout. Travelers must book on the premise of good health; injuries resulting from one's own illness or personal fault are one's own responsibility.

Can pregnant women board the cruise?

Some cruise lines have restrictions: for example, Century Cruises does not accept bookings from pregnant women who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy by the end of the itinerary. Pregnant women under 24 weeks must provide a doctor's certificate permitting boarding, stating the expected due date. Travelers with unstable pregnancies or nearing their due date are advised to avoid travel risks.

Is a Three Gorges cruise suitable for seniors? Can wheelchairs be brought on board? Are there accessible facilities?

Yes. Three Gorges cruises move at a relaxed pace with beautiful scenery, and dining, lodging, travel, and entertainment are all on board. A few shore sights have steps and long walks; travelers with limited mobility can skip shore excursions and stay on board while still enjoying the full gorge scenery. Foldable electric wheelchairs can be brought on board, most premium cruises have (vertical) elevators, and Yangtze 3 even has accessible cabins. Note: Three Gorges cruises generally lack accessible gangways, and almost all riverside piers have steps, which is challenging for travelers with no mobility at all (at Chaotianmen Pier you must descend stairs to the pier; wheelchair users can ask porters to help carry them on board for about RMB 200). When checking in, let the main service desk know — a deck 2 room is usually arranged for easier movement.

What if foreign travelers are in my group — how do we communicate on board?

The accompanying guides and onboard announcements on premium cruises are bilingual in Chinese and English. If needed, guides or interpreters in other languages can be arranged for a group at additional cost.

What are the safety rules on board?

1) Travel only in the seat assigned on your ticket; each ticket is valid for one person only — purchase a supplement ticket at the service desk if traveling without one; 2) Do not disembark at will or enter the vehicle deck; 3) Smoking is strictly prohibited in indoor areas — use designated areas; 4) Do not tamper with or misuse fire-fighting and life-saving equipment; 5) Do not enter restricted areas such as the bridge, engine room, deck work areas, or crew quarters; 6) Carrying prohibited items and flammable, explosive, toxic, corrosive, or radioactive materials on board is strictly forbidden; 7) No gambling, roughhousing, excessive drinking, or loud noise in cabins; do not smoke in bed or use high-power appliances; 8) Fresh water on board is limited — use it sparingly; 9) You must attend the mandatory safety drill after boarding; hold the handrail on deck, and do not climb or lean over the side; 10) Keep luggage and valuables safe, and watch children closely; 11) Deck surfaces may be slippery — walk slowly.

Is a Yangtze Three Gorges cruise safe?

Overall safety is very high: 1) Vessel hardware — all ships must pass China Classification Society safety certification, and mainstream premium cruises have dual power backups and vibration-damping, wave-resistant equipment; 2) Navigation control — routes, speeds, and port call times must be filed in advance with Yangtze River maritime authorities and are monitored in real time, with navigation bans or restrictions in extreme weather; 3) Emergency systems — a mandatory safety drill after boarding, crew and medical staff on board, and a medical office stocked with common medicines and first-aid equipment; 4) Shore excursions — guides lead the whole way, passenger limits are verified when transferring to sightseeing boats, and life-saving equipment is provided.

How do I get to the Three Gorges cruise piers?

Chongqing (Chaotianmen Pier — about 85% of Three Gorges cruises board/disembark here): Chaotianmen sits at the confluence of the Jialing River and the Yangtze in Yuzhong District, next to Raffles City, about a 10-minute walk from Jiefangbei and Hongyadong. Jiangbei Airport to Chaotianmen: taxi about 28 km / 50 minutes / RMB 60-70, or Metro Line 10 to Line 6 then Line 1, about 1 hour / RMB 7. Chongqing North Railway Station to Chaotianmen: taxi about 12 km / RMB 25-35, or Metro Line 10 to Line 1, about 40 minutes / RMB 3. Chongqing West Railway Station to Chaotianmen: taxi about 22 km / RMB 40-50. Shapingba Station: Metro Line 1, about 50 minutes. The exact boarding pier (Chaotianmen Piers 1-17) is subject to the ship's notice on the day.

Yichang (Zigui Port / Maoping Pier — a must-read for upstream travelers): Zigui Port is about 60 km from downtown Yichang. Take the free transfer shuttle first: boarding points are to the right of the exit at Yichang East Railway Station and the Three Gorges Visitor Center (Jiu Matou), with rolling departures 17:30-20:30; show your ID card for a ticket; the ride takes about 1.5 hours. Reference taxi fares: Yichang East Railway Station to Zigui Port about RMB 200; Three Gorges Airport to Zigui Port about RMB 150. Boarding at Zigui Port is generally 18:00-22:00.

Does the ticket include airport/station transfers?

Airport transfers are generally not included; travelers go to the pier on their own. The ticket mainly covers: lodging, onboard meals, admission to scheduled sights, guide service, and onboard entertainment. Premium room types or some cruises may include free station/airport transfer service — confirm with us when booking.

Can I bring my car on board (self-drive + cruise)?

Currently only the Xin Gao Hu cruise accepts vehicles on board (route: Zigui, Yichang ↔ Fengjie Port, Chongqing). Reference costs: about RMB 700 per person in a 6-berth cabin, RMB 800 in a 4-berth cabin, RMB 900 in a 2-berth cabin, depending on room type, plus RMB 300-500 for the vehicle.

How do I get an invoice (fapiao)?

If you booked through this site and need an invoice, contact customer service with the booker's name and invoicing details.

What if I have other questions?

Call +86-23-63629700, email info@sanxia-china.com, or click "Online Consultation" at the bottom of the page to chat with a consultant in real time. You can also see the Booking FAQ on the homepage and the Booking Inquiry page.