The Yangtze River flows nearly 4,000 miles west to east through the heart of China. Known in Chinese as “Chang Jiang,” or the “Long River,” the Yangtze has long been an important landmark, both geographically and politically, and the river area is currently home to more than 400 million of China’s people. Known for its towering peaks, sometimes rising as much as 300 meters above the river, sailing the Yangtze River has been compared to sailing the Nile River through the Grand Canyon. The majesty of the famed Three Gorges is a unique and special part of world heritage, and a must see for every traveler to China. With the completion of the second phase of the Yangtze River Dam Project, the water level is rising and the reservoir is being filled. However, the increase in water level is insignificant compared to the height of the mountain peaks which make up the Three Gorges area. The scenery is still majestic, the experience still memorable. You will be amazed as you pass through the 5-stage ship lock of the dam, an incredible engineering feat..

All of the Yangtze River cruises we feature travel through the famous Three Gorges area. With a full length of 193 kilometers, each has its own special characteristics. The spectacular Qutang Gorge is the shortest but by far the most dramatic. Its sheer steep cliffs are filled with stunning vistas and interesting oddities, including the Meng Liang staircase (carved by the bodyguard of a murdered Song Dynasty official, attempting to recover his master’s body from the steep cliffside). The Wu Gorge is 44 km long and is known for its deep valley and the quiet beauty of its forest-covered mountains. It is said that if you look carefully, a silhouette of a goddess can be seen at the top of Goddess Peak. The Xiling Gorge is the longest gorge at 66 km, and in the past was known for its hazardous shoals. Today the danger spots have been eliminated, but the fine scenery remains.

After launching its first ship in 1994, Victoria Cruises holds the distinction of operating and managing the largest fleet of vessels with the coveted five-star rating from the China National Tourism Administration. The only American-managed cruise line sailing on the Yangtze, Victoria Cruises delivers an unrivaled and unsurpassed Yangtze River experience.

China Travel Service (U.S.A.), Inc. sails on Victoria’s Premier Series of ships, including the newest, Victoria Katarina. All the Premier ships feature enhanced facilities such as private balconies in every cabin for viewing the magnificent Three Gorges scenery and full baths in the bathrooms.
Ships feature cabins in four categories– Standard, Junior Suite, Deluxe Suite and the Shangri-la Suite. Cabin amenities include Internet access and satellite television with HBO and BBC Broadcast. Though our scheduled tours feature standard cabin accommodation, guests have an option to upgrade their cabin category with an additional charge.

All ships in the fleet boast the same deluxe style and décor, from tastefully-appointed cabins and elegant atriums with sparkling chandeliers and gleaming woods to an overall décor of American and European influences with Asian accents. The ships are completely air-conditioned with services and facilities including a beauty and hair salon, fitness room, mini spa, library, gift shop and a health clinic with a doctor onboard.

The Dynasty Dining Room serves gourmet cuisine on each ship with American-style breakfasts, buffet lunches and Chinese banquet-style dinner. Passengers may also enjoy the option of its á la carte restaurant on the top deck while on board the Victoria Katarina. Among the dining highlights are the Captain’s Welcome Cocktail Party and the Farewell Dinner.

While enjoying the spectacular views and listening to the narration on the history and features of the Yangtze given by your knowledgeable River Guide, the International Cruise Director will organize daytime shipboard activities including informative Chinese cultural lectures; painting demonstrations; acupuncture demonstrations; and lessons on Tai Chi, Mandarin, calligraphy and the making of silk kites. Guests can delight in colorful entertainment in the evening such as traditional fashion shows, cabarets and nightly disco dancing.

All itineraries are highlighted by the famed Three Gorges–Qutang, Wu and Xiling–showcasing dramatic scenery, deep valleys, verdant landscapes and stunning vistas. Fascinating stops and places to see along the Yangtze are among the shore excursions.