Chongqing to Yichang: 3-Night Luxury CENTURY GLORY Yangtze River Cruise Tour

Thinking about cruising along China’s iconic Yangtze River? The Century Glory offers what many would call a top-tier experience — a modern, luxurious vessel that combines advanced technology, comfort, and sightseeing. While it’s relatively new on the scene, debuting in September 2019, this cruise has quickly gained praise for its high-end amenities, scenic itinerary, and attentive service.

What particularly appeals to us is the ship’s full silence and zero paint design, promising a serene environment away from noise and pollution. Plus, the onboard entertainment, including cultural activities and a stunning double-deck global restaurant, promises a relaxing and immersive experience on water. One thing to keep in mind is that this cruise offers a somewhat fixed schedule, and optional excursions like Fengdu Ghost City and White Emperor City are not included in the base price, so planning accordingly is key.

This cruise is best suited for those who crave a luxurious, comfortable journey with scenic views, insightful stops, and modern amenities. If you’re a traveler who values high-end comfort, seamless organization, and memorable landscapes, this experience will likely hit the mark — but those seeking a deeply local, off-the-beaten-path adventure might find it a tad polished.

Key Points

• Luxury and modernity define the ship, with spacious cabins and top-tier amenities.
• Scenic stops like Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai, and the Three Gorges Dam are highlights.
• Onboard features, including Wi-Fi, a double-deck restaurant, and a huge sunshine deck, enhance comfort.
• Cultural and natural sights are accessible via optional and included shore excursions.
• The itinerary balances scenic cruising with cultural exploration, typically suited for travelers who appreciate smooth and well-organized tours.
• The value is reflected in the impressive facilities, excellent service, and prime locations, making it a good investment if comfort ranks high for you.

Why Choose the Century Glory?

The Century Glory stands out as the newest, most luxurious cruise ship on the Yangtze River. Its debut in 2019 means you’re stepping aboard a vessel designed with cutting-edge technology, ensuring a peaceful, smooth ride. Its capacity for 650 passengers is balanced enough to feel lively but not crowded, fostering a cozy yet social atmosphere.

For travelers craving luxury, the ship’s reputation for “full silence, zero paint, and super comfort” indicates a focus on tranquility and high-end design. The full WIFI onboard and 24-hour internet access are features that modern travelers find indispensable, especially when sharing moments or staying connected.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Chongqing & Embarkation

Board at Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm. After a safety briefing, the ship departs around 9:30 pm. The first evening is dedicated to a Captain’s Welcome Reception, setting the tone for a friendly, relaxed journey. Dinner is not included, giving travelers the option to explore local dining before setting sail.

Day 2: Fengdu Ghost City & Shibaozhai

Morning starts with a Tai Chi session, which many reviews mention as a highlight to start the day peacefully. The optional tour to Fengdu Ghost City is highly recommended for those interested in Chinese legends and architecture, although it’s not included in the basic package. The site’s ancient temples and mythological statues, built during the Tang Dynasty, reveal China’s rich cultural tapestry.

In the afternoon, the ship docks at Shibaozhai to explore its iconic pagoda, built against a sheer cliff. Its architecture and scenic surroundings make it a photogenic stop, and visitors often comment on its “heavenly” appearance.

Day 3: Chongqing Baidi City & Shennv Stream

Fengjie’s White Emperor City is a suggested optional stop, renowned for inspiring poets and offering scenic historical ruins atop Baidi Hill. While not included in the base tour, the site promises sweeping views and a sense of ancient China’s poetic soul.

The afternoon features a visit to Shennv Stream, a narrow, primitive canyon known for its rushing waters and unspoiled scenery. Reviewers describe it as a “beautiful, surprising” spot, perfect for nature lovers eager to see the ‘hidden’ depths of the Yangtze. It’s a rare chance to get close to untouched landscapes via a well-organized shore excursion.

Day 4: Three Gorges Dam & Disembarkation

Early morning, disembark at Maoping pier in Yichang. The most impressive sight here is the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project. The three-hour visit offers a chance to appreciate China’s engineering marvels and the natural beauty of the upstream gorges, such as Qutang, Wu, and Xiling.

What Makes This Cruise Stand Out?

The Ship’s Design & Comfort

Passengers rave about the spacious cabins and the double-deck global restaurant, which not only provides a variety of international cuisines but also offers stunning views during meals. The sunshine deck spanning 1000 sqm is perfect for walking, soaking up sun, or just relaxing with a book while watching the river flow.

Onboard Experience & Service

Multiple reviews mention staff members, especially Dandan, as attentive and welcoming, helping make the journey feel personalized and special. The Wi-Fi is a big plus, allowing guests to share their experience or stay connected with home — a real boon during travel.

Scenic & Cultural Highlights

While the cruise emphasizes luxury and comfort, it does not skimp on cultural richness. The stops at Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai, and the Three Gorges Dam offer a layered understanding of China’s history, legend, and engineering achievements.

Optional Excursions & Flexibility

The included excursions are well-paced, typically lasting around 2.5 hours each, with optional tours to Fengdu Ghost City and White Emperor City. These optional activities allow a deeper dive into specific interests, though they come at extra cost and are not included in the basic package.

What About Price & Value?

At a glance, the price appears to be $0.00, which suggests a promotional or package deal; in reality, travelers should expect to pay a service charge (around 200 RMB per person) at check-in, plus optional tour costs. The value lies in the quality of amenities, scenic views, and cultural stops — a premium experience in a marketplace often filled with more budget options.

Who Is This Cruise For?

This cruise is ideal for luxury travelers, families seeking a comfortable and stylish journey, and those eager to explore the Yangtze River with minimal fuss. Its modern design and comprehensive amenities appeal to travelers who want a seamless, upscale experience, with plenty of opportunities for cultural enrichment.

It’s less suited for those on a tight budget or travelers who prefer a more rugged, adventure-focused trip. Since the itinerary is quite curated and organized, those seeking spontaneity or offbeat locations might find it a bit too polished.

Final Thoughts

The Century Glory offers a compelling combination of luxury, scenic beauty, and cultural discovery. Its modern facilities and well-curated itinerary make it an excellent choice for travelers who value comfort and high-end service while exploring one of China’s most famous waterways.

While optional excursions add a customizable touch, the core experience — cruising through the Three Gorges, taking in breathtaking views, and enjoying top-notch onboard amenities — remains a strong selling point. It’s a cruise that balances relaxation, exploration, and comfort, making it a memorable way to see the Yangtze River in style.

If you’re after a luxury river cruise with a good mix of scenery, culture, and comfort, this journey is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those who prioritize quality and a smooth experience over roughing it, with plenty of opportunities to appreciate the natural and historical marvels of the region.

FAQ

Is Wi-Fi available onboard?
Yes, Wi-Fi and internet access are available 24 hours a day, allowing you to stay connected and share your trip with friends and family.

Are land excursions included in the price?
Most of the listed land excursions are included, such as Shibaozhai and the Three Gorges Dam. However, some optional tours like Fengdu Ghost City and White Emperor City are extra, and a service charge of about 200 RMB per person applies.

What is the embarkation time?
You should plan to board at Chaotianmen Dock in Chongqing between 7:00 pm and 9:00 pm, with departure around 9:30 pm.

Does the cruise include meals?
Yes, the package covers breakfast (3), lunch (2), and dinner (2) during the cruise, with quality dining options and stunning river views.

What is the disembarkation process?
Disembarkation takes place at Maoping pier in Yichang after breakfast on the last day, followed by a visit to the Three Gorges Dam.

Is this cruise suitable for families?
Yes. Several reviews mention family rooms and kid-friendly amenities. The cruise’s modern and safe environment makes it suitable for travelers of all ages seeking comfort and scenic beauty.

To sum it up, the Century Glory Yangtze River cruise delivers a luxurious, well-organized journey through some of China’s most iconic sights. It’s perfect for those who want to travel in style, enjoy spectacular views, and explore the cultural landmarks of the Yangtze in comfort. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable river adventure, this cruise stands out as a high-value, premium experience.