Itineraries & Seasons

 Choosing an Itinerary 
According to the distance and direction that a ship cruises, the Yangtze Cruise itineraries can be categorized into four types: downstream short line, upstream short line, downstream long line and upstream long line. During a cruise, no matter which line you take, you will disembark and visit some of the scenic spots, such as Shennong Stream, Three Little Gorges, Fengdu Ghost City and Snow Jade Cave. An English guide will introduce the attractions, cultural relics, historical stories and legends of the Yangtze River while the ship is sailing. You can also require a visit to the control cabin of the ship.

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of each line:
 Downstream Short Line: Chongqing → Yichang (about 600 kilometers/ 373 miles, taking 4 days)
Advantages: the ship cruises fast and it costs less. There is no night sailing and more onshore visiting time for visitors. The public transportation from airports and railway stations to ferry ports are very convenient in both Chongqing and Yichang, especially for international visitors. In addition, this is the most frequently selected line.
Disadvantages: The onshore activities are energy-consuming. An itinerary like this with many daily activities may result in fatigue. 

 Upstream Short Line: Yichang → Chongqing (about 600 kilometers/373 miles, taking 5 days)
Advantages: the ship cruises slowly. It costs less. Many onboard activities and entertainment with Chinese culture can be experienced.
Disadvantages: the ship sails at night to reach the next destination, so some onshore attractions are omitted. 

 Downstream Long Line: Chongqing → Shanghai (2,399 kilometers/1,491miles, taking 9 days)
Advantages: the ship goes faster than on an upstream route. A long line consists of more attractions along the Yangtze River and more onboard activities. Visitors will have much time to relax, both onshore and onboard.
Disadvantages: a long line costs more and takes more time. For the lovers of outdoor activities, and those who want to learn more about China, 9 or 10 days onboard a ship might not meet with their expectations. 

 Upstream Long Line: Shanghai → Chongqing (2,399 kilometers/1,491miles, taking 10 days)
Advantages: the ship cruises slowly so that there is more leisure time onboard and onshore.
Disadvantages: time consuming and expensive. 

 Seasons – Best Time to Visit Yangtze River 
The water level of the Yangtze River changes with the seasons. Usually it is dry season in winter (November to January) and the water level is low, with the level being higher in summer (June to August). However, the cruise will not be affected by the water level.

The Yangtze River area has a mild climate, so it is not so hot in summer and not very cold in winter. The average temperature in summer is 28°C (82.4°F), and in winter 7°C (44.6°F). In addition, the cruise ships are equipped with air-conditioners. Therefore, it is suitable to take a cruise all the year round. Please notice that it is quite windy on the deck when a ship is sailing, so please take a wind-proof coat with you.