How Children Are Charged: Age Thresholds FirstPRICE
Three Gorges cruises price children's tickets by whether the child occupies a bed, and most lines use age 12 as the threshold: under 12 pays the child fare, 12 and above pays the adult fare. Common charging standards are as follows:
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% of the adult fare for ages 1-2.
Children ages 2-12
Without a bed (sharing with parents, no separate bed) typically 50%-67% of the adult fare; with a bed (using a bed of their own) typically 75%-100%; some lines apply a flat 60% of the adult fare.
Child fare policies differ considerably between cruise lines — be sure to confirm the exact standard for your chosen sailing with us when booking; the written confirmation at the time of booking prevails.
One Room with an Extra Bed, or Two Rooms with Beds?ROOM
Take the common families of 2 adults + 1 child or 2 adults + 2 children as examples:
Option 1: One room with an extra bed
Children under 12 can share one room with their parents using an extra bed, at the lowest cost. Standard cabins are twin rooms, so the space is somewhat tight after adding a bed — suitable for families with younger children on a budget.
Option 2: Two rooms with beds
For more space, have the child occupy a bed and book two rooms; families of 2 adults + 2 children are advised to book two rooms directly. Some new ships offer family suites that accommodate the whole family in one cabin — the Vista Aurora has a family suite and is a great choice for families with kids.
What Facilities on Board Suit Kids?FACILITY
Entertainment facilities vary from ship to ship; common family-friendly amenities include swimming pools (including heated pools on some ships), cinemas (found on most new ships), kids' playrooms/family activity areas, card and game rooms, plus free crew song-and-dance galas and welcome/farewell parties. Some newer ships also have outdoor areas such as mini golf.
Onboard lectures and activities also make great family learning moments: Three Gorges culture lectures, handicraft sessions, and more let children learn while traveling. Going ashore by day to the Lesser Three Gorges or Baidicheng and returning in the evening for shows, the itinerary rhythm is very kid-friendly — no long coach transfers, and children can sleep in their cabin whenever they get tired. Facilities differ by ship; before booking, confirm with us whether the pool is open and other specifics for your chosen sailing.
Safety First: Deck Supervision and Fall PreventionSAFETY
Cruise safety overall is very high, but children require constant supervision:
Deck supervision essentials
The river wind on deck is strong and the railings overlook open water, so children must stay within sight at all times. Teach children never to climb the railings, lean over the side, or run and roughhouse on deck; hold the handrails on stairs and elevators; when passing the ship lock or docking, the hull makes noises and moves slightly — tell children in advance so they are not alarmed.
Life jackets and the safety drill
Everyone must attend the safety drill after boarding; on entering the cabin, read the emergency evacuation diagram behind the door and confirm where life jackets are stored and the sizes of children's life jackets. During shore excursions, do not take photos while walking, stay away from cliff edges and riverside railings, and strictly observe return times.
Ship Selection for Families: New Ships and Family Cabins FirstSHIP
Our recommended priorities when choosing a ship with kids: ①A newer ship — new ships have complete facilities, larger children's activity spaces, and better soundproofing; ②Family cabins/suites — the whole family in one room saves worry and money; ③Pool and cinema on board — something for kids to do day and night. Key recommendations:
The Vista Aurora and its sister ship the Yangtze Moonlight are new ships launched in the last two years, with family suites designed for larger families; the Century Oasis has complete facilities and excellent dining; the Huaxia Goddess No. 3 is themed on Goddess culture, and its onboard decor and storytelling appeal strongly to children. For ship tiers and budgets, see the homepage's 7-level quick-reference table.
Packing List and Itinerary PacePREPARE
Packing list: the child's documents (children under 16 may use the original household registration booklet) and the adults' original documents are both indispensable; swimwear and goggles (if your ship has a pool); sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, and compact rain gear; a light jacket (the deck is windy); sealed packaged snacks for the child; chargers, wet wipes, and common medicines.
Pace suggestions: the downstream route (Chongqing → Yichang) runs 4 days 3 nights, sailing by day and mooring at night — better suited to families with limited vacation time; the upstream route runs 5 days 4 nights and is more leisurely, but lock passage often occurs in the early morning. For the booking process and refund/change rules see the FAQ; prices are subject to the written confirmation at the time of booking.
Contact Us
For sailing schedules, group quotations, or cabin recommendations, feel free to contact a Three Gorges Cruise Center consultant at any time. We will give targeted advice based on party size, budget, and health conditions.
You can also click "Online Consultation" at the bottom of the page to chat with a consultant in real time.