Collette > Cruising the Yangtze River

Cruising the Yangtze River
16 Days starting from $1,899

Countries Visited:
China

 

Length: 16 Days
Type: First Class Tour
Category: Tour and Cruise
Operator: Collette
Tour Code: 3341
   
 
 
About This Tour


A four-day cruise on the legendary Yangtze, a highlight of this tour, is one of the great river odysseys through spectacular scenery and timeless history. You'll see ancient sites and remote rural villages as well as an up-close look at the world's largest construction project, the Three Gorges Dam. The scenic highlights of this river journey are many, but most spectacular are the Three Gorges that lie upstream of the dam site. Quatang Gorge is dramatic with steep cliffs that guard ancient sites such as the Meng Liang staircase carved into rock. Wu Gorge with its twelve peaks and pristine, forest-clad mountains has been admired for centuries. During one day of your cruise, you will visit Wanxian where you may visit a silk-weaving factory and the Three Gorges Museum. This ideal tour combines the splendors of the Yangtze River with China's historic treasures. You begin in Shanghai where a full day of sightseeing introduces you to sites like the Bund, referring to Shanghai's famous waterfront which today consists of a marvelous promenade, the perfect platform for strolling along the busy river way. A visit to the Jade Buddha Temple and a tour of the tranquil YuYuan Gardens are other highlights. Following your cruise, you fly to the unique city of Guilin where you will visit the Chinese Art Institute and later participate in a private Tai Chi lesson. In Xian, located in China's interior, you'll marvel at China's greatest archaeological excavation site, the life-sized Terra Cotta Warriors and it is here that you will enjoy a special dumpling lunch. Your tour concludes with a 3-night stay in Beijing, the capital of China. The Summer Palace is a must-see architectural wonder and the Forbidden City provides a glimpse of the lives of China's mighty emperors. Go kite flying in Tiananmen Square; enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw ride through the narrow streets and alleys of Beijing's oldest part; and share lunch with a family in their Hutong home. And, finally, no visit to Beijing would be complete without an excursion to the Great Wall.

 
  • What's Included
  • Itinerary
  • Dates & Prices
  • Sightseeing
  • Details

Enjoy the services of a professional tour manager who accompanies you throughout your trip.

Meals
14 Breakfast(s), 13 Lunch(es), 13 Dinner(s)

5 night Yangtze River Crise aboard China Regal Cruises

Hotel Accommodations:
Listed below or equivalent. Rooms with private bath or shower, hotel taxes, porterage, tips, and service charges

SHANGHAIShanghai Marriott Hongqiao
GUILINGuilin Bravo Hotel
XIANGrand New World Hotel
BEIJINGLoong Palace Hotel & Resort

Complimentary hotel-to-hotel baggage handling.
Sightseeing
Private transportation via a deluxe, climate-controlled motorcoach
Day 1
Overnight Flight


Day 2
Shanghai, China - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in Shanghai, the economic capital of the People’s Republic of China and one of the most fascinating countries in the world. Prepare to immerse yourself in this land of stunning scenery and ancient culture.

Day 3
Shanghai
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Today enjoy a sightseeing tour of the booming city of Shanghai. The tour includes visits to the Old Town, with its narrow streets and traditional buildings; the Yuyuan Gardens, an island of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of the city; the Bund, the waterfront area that was the center of 19th century colonialism; and the Children’s Palace, a European-style fortress where local children play after school. Tonight you are sure to enjoy the amazing performers at the Acrobatic Show.

Day 4
Shanghai - Yichang - Board Cruise
A visit to the most important temple in Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple, brings you to the home of two white jade statues of Buddha, given to China as a gift from Burma. Fly to Yichang. Following a short drive to Shashi, board your ship for a 5-night cruise of the Yangtze River and enjoy a welcome briefing and orientation with the crew.

Day 5
Jingzhou - Cruising
This morning, visit Jingzhou’s city wall from the 3 Kingdoms Period, followed by the museum where you will see a mummy that is over 2,000 years old, ancient silk and lacquer wares, and other cultural relics. After lunch, relax on board the ship. You may choose from many possible onboard events such as the river briefings, tai chi classes, and calligraphy demonstrations. Or, perhaps you will choose to indulge in one of the ship’s spa treatments, such as a traditional Chinese massage. This evening, join the Captain for a welcome dinner.

Day 6
Gezhou Ship Lock - Xiling Gorge
Visit the construction site of the Three Gorges Dam project. The dam is 27 miles upstream from Yichang City proper, at Sandouping Village, inside the first of the three gorges. It is planned to be, by far, the largest hydroelectric project in the world.

Day 7
Cruising - Shennong Stream - Wu Gorge
Your excursion today includes a visit to the Shennong Stream in pea boats. You will see breathtaking scenery of the Parrot & Dragon Boat gorges. You will also pass through the Wu & Qutang gorges.

Day 8
Cruising - Wanxian
Your morning includes a visit to Wanxian, guarded by two nine-story pagodas and known as "the gateway to East Sichuan." While here, you have the opportunity to visit with a family that has been relocated from the home on the banks of the river because of the flooding of the dam. Hear their story first hand and learn how this technological marvel has impacted the local communities. Next, take a leisurely stroll through a busy local market and learn about the various produce and ingredients, then shop as the locals do. Visit the Three Gorges Museum where you will see many archaeological treasures unearthed before the dam project flooding began.

Day 9
Chongqing - Disembark Ship - Guilin
You arrive at the scenic mountain city of Chongqing. Disembark your ship and if time permits, visit the Stilwell Museum and Eling Park. Later, fly to the beautiful city of Guilin.

Day 10
Guilin
Today you have a full day at leisure to relax or explore Guilin on your own. Or, you may choose to take an optional excursion which includes a cruise on the Li River where you’ll admire the landscapes that have inspired artists and poets for centuries, followed by a visit to Yangshuo’s bustling market to bargain with the locals for souvenirs.

Day 11
Guilin - Xian
Experience peace and tranquility as you participate in a private Tai Chi lesson. Many believe that this ancient form of exercise is the secret to Chinese longevity. Next, visit the Reed Flute Caves, with its wonderful underground scenery. After lunch enjoy a stop at Elephant Trunk Hill before boarding your flight to Xian, located in China’s interior.

Day 12
Xian
Your tour of this former capital of China begins with a visit to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This vast clay army, 7,000 strong, was created to guard one of China’s emperors in the afterlife. You''ll be amazed by the craftsmanship - each soldier has a different face. Later, visit Xian''s imposing city walls and the classical Wild Goose Pagoda.

Day 13
Xian - Beijing
This morning you fly to the capital of China, Beijing. A fascinating sightseeing tour of Beijing includes visits to imposing Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the vast 15th century complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens that was once home to the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. A visit is also made to the Temple of Heaven, an impressive shrine where Chinese emperors worshipped their gods.

Day 14
The Great Wall
No visit to China would be complete without visiting the Great Wall. You will have the chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700-mile marvel. Later, travel through the valley of the Ming Tombs, burial sites of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors. Your route takes you for a scenic walk along an avenue called the Sacred Way. This evening a special treat is in store - a Peking duck dinner, followed by a special Peking Opera show.

Day 15
Beijing
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of the Summer Palace. Later take a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the narrow streets and alleys of the oldest part of Beijing. With help from an interpreter, learn about a local family’s history and way of life when you share lunch with them in their Hutong home. They will also teach you the art of traditional dumpling making! Next, you have the opportunity to visit with a local Kite Master and learn the art of making kites and the history of this most cherished pastime of the Chinese people. Your final stop is a traditional tea ceremony before returning to your hotel. Later, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner.

Day 16
Beijing - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Beijing.

Day 1
Overnight Flight


Day 2
Shanghai, China - Tour Begins
Your tour begins in Shanghai, the economic capital of the People’s Republic of China and one of the most fascinating countries in the world. Prepare to immerse yourself in this land of stunning scenery and ancient culture.

Day 3
Shanghai
LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals. Today enjoy a sightseeing tour of the booming city of Shanghai. The tour includes visits to the Old Town, with its narrow streets and traditional buildings; the Yuyuan Gardens, an island of tranquility amid the hustle and bustle of the city; the Bund, the waterfront area that was the center of 19th century colonialism; and the Children’s Palace, a European-style fortress where local children play after school. Tonight you are sure to enjoy the amazing performers at the Acrobatic Show.

Day 4
Shanghai - Yichang - Board Cruise
A visit to the most important temple in Shanghai, the Jade Buddha Temple, brings you to the home of two white jade statues of Buddha, given to China as a gift from Burma. Fly to Yichang. Following a short drive to Shashi, board your ship for a 5-night cruise of the Yangtze River and enjoy a welcome briefing and orientation with the crew.

Day 5
Jingzhou - Cruising
This morning, visit Jingzhou’s city wall from the 3 Kingdoms Period, followed by the museum where you will see a mummy that is over 2,000 years old, ancient silk and lacquer wares, and other cultural relics. After lunch, relax on board the ship. You may choose from many possible onboard events such as the river briefings, tai chi classes, and calligraphy demonstrations. Or, perhaps you will choose to indulge in one of the ship’s spa treatments, such as a traditional Chinese massage. This evening, join the Captain for a welcome dinner.

Day 6
Gezhou Ship Lock - Xiling Gorge
Visit the construction site of the Three Gorges Dam project. The dam is 27 miles upstream from Yichang City proper, at Sandouping Village, inside the first of the three gorges. It is planned to be, by far, the largest hydroelectric project in the world.

Day 7
Cruising - Shennong Stream - Wu Gorge
Your excursion today includes a visit to the Shennong Stream in pea boats. You will see breathtaking scenery of the Parrot & Dragon Boat gorges. You will also pass through the Wu & Qutang gorges.

Day 8
Cruising - Wanxian
Your morning includes a visit to Wanxian, guarded by two nine-story pagodas and known as "the gateway to East Sichuan." While here, you have the opportunity to visit with a family that has been relocated from the home on the banks of the river because of the flooding of the dam. Hear their story first hand and learn how this technological marvel has impacted the local communities. Next, take a leisurely stroll through a busy local market and learn about the various produce and ingredients, then shop as the locals do. Visit the Three Gorges Museum where you will see many archaeological treasures unearthed before the dam project flooding began.

Day 9
Chongqing - Disembark Ship - Guilin
You arrive at the scenic mountain city of Chongqing. Disembark your ship and if time permits, visit the Stilwell Museum and Eling Park. Later, fly to the beautiful city of Guilin.

Day 10
Guilin
Today you have a full day at leisure to relax or explore Guilin on your own. Or, you may choose to take an optional excursion which includes a cruise on the Li River where you’ll admire the landscapes that have inspired artists and poets for centuries, followed by a visit to Yangshuo’s bustling market to bargain with the locals for souvenirs.

Day 11
Guilin - Xian
Experience peace and tranquility as you participate in a private Tai Chi lesson. Many believe that this ancient form of exercise is the secret to Chinese longevity. Next, visit the Reed Flute Caves, with its wonderful underground scenery. After lunch enjoy a stop at Elephant Trunk Hill before boarding your flight to Xian, located in China’s interior.

Day 12
Xian
Your tour of this former capital of China begins with a visit to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This vast clay army, 7,000 strong, was created to guard one of China’s emperors in the afterlife. You''ll be amazed by the craftsmanship - each soldier has a different face. Later, visit Xian''s imposing city walls and the classical Wild Goose Pagoda.

Day 13
Xian - Beijing
This morning you fly to the capital of China, Beijing. A fascinating sightseeing tour of Beijing includes visits to imposing Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the vast 15th century complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens that was once home to the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. A visit is also made to the Temple of Heaven, an impressive shrine where Chinese emperors worshipped their gods.

Day 14
The Great Wall
No visit to China would be complete without visiting the Great Wall. You will have the chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700-mile marvel. Later, travel through the valley of the Ming Tombs, burial sites of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors. Your route takes you for a scenic walk along an avenue called the Sacred Way. This evening a special treat is in store - a Peking duck dinner, followed by a special Peking Opera show.

Day 15
Beijing
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of the Summer Palace. Later take a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the narrow streets and alleys of the oldest part of Beijing. With help from an interpreter, learn about a local family’s history and way of life when you share lunch with them in their Hutong home. They will also teach you the art of traditional dumpling making! Next, you have the opportunity to visit with a local Kite Master and learn the art of making kites and the history of this most cherished pastime of the Chinese people. Your final stop is a traditional tea ceremony before returning to your hotel. Later, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner.

Day 16
Beijing - Tour Ends
Your tour ends in Beijing.


To speak to one of our live, experienced travel consultants, Call us now at 1-800-942-3301.

Airfare Disclaimer
A NOTE ABOUT AIRFARE: We encourage you to buy your airfare from the tour operator, because if your tour cancels then your airlines tickets will be covered. Purchasing flights separately at a lesser rate and incorporating it with a Non-Guaranteed Departure Date can result in loss of total cost of your flight investment. Depending on the fare rules, flights may be Non-Refundable and/or Non-Transferable. Neither the tour operator and/or Atlas Cruises & Tours will be held responsible for loss if a tour is cancelled for Lack of Participation. If you would like to check for discounted fares on Guaranteed Departures or for competitive pricing on air and hotel packages, we invite you to follow this link.

Documents
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS: Necessary Travel Documents such as Passports and Visas is the responsibility of the traveler. Passports must be valid six months from your return travel date.

         
Touring Date
Land Only
Land + Air
Single
(Land Only)
Single
(Land + Air)
10/9/2008 - 10/24/2008
$1,999
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10/16/2008 - 10/31/2008
$1,999
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3/8/2009 - 3/23/2009
$1,899
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4/19/2009 - 5/4/2009
$1,999
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5/17/2009 - 6/1/2009
$2,149
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5/24/2009 - 6/8/2009
$2,149
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6/11/2009 - 6/26/2009
$1,999
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9/3/2009 - 9/18/2009
$2,149
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9/20/2009 - 10/5/2009
$2,149
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10/4/2009 - 10/19/2009
$2,149
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10/18/2009 - 11/2/2009
$2,149
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11/1/2009 - 11/16/2009
$2,049
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Package Notes:
The trans-Pacific and international flights on this program are not included in the land price of your vacation. These flights need to be arranged and purchased seperately if you arrange your own air. Internal flights are included with the air portion of your vacation if you purchase air through the tour operator.
Many of the included dinners features Western cuisine.
*Many dinners are Western. Dinners on the cruise ship are a combination of Eastern and Western cuisine.
Due to the ongoing dam/flood project, the itinerary may vary slightly with little or no advance notice.
Itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
This tour includes a cruise on the Yangtze River and visits to Shanghai, Wu Gorge, Beijing, Xian and Guilin.

Walk along the awesome 3,700-mile long Great Wall of China.

Savor dumplings filled with vegetables and meat at a dumpling lunch in Xian.

Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Parrot & Dragon Boat gorges on a "pea" boat excursion.

Feel the energy at a daredevil performance at the Acrobatic Show in Shanghai.

See amazing stalagmite and stone flower shapes during a visit to the underground Reed Flute Caves.

LANGUAGE DISCOVERY: Today, your Tour Manager will help you discover the origin and history of the language(s) you will experience on your tour along with key words and phrases that will help you communicate with the locals.

Sightseeing tour of Shanghai: the tour includes visits to the Old Town; the Yuyuan Gardens; the Bund; the Children’s Palace and the Jade Buddha Temple. Enjoy the amazing performers at the Acrobatic Show

5-night cruise of the Yangtze River. Visit the construction site of the Three Gorges Dam project. Visit to the Shennong Stream in pea boats on the Daning River. You will see breathtaking scenery of the Parrot & Dragon Boat gorges.

Enjoy a cart tour of Guilin, viewing some of the unique scenery that has been inspiring Chinese poets for centuries

private Tai Chi lesson

Tour of Xian begins with a visit to the excavation site of the Terra-Cotta Warriors. This vast clay army, 7,000 strong, was created to guard one of China’s emperors in the afterlife. Later, visit Xian's imposing city walls and the classical Wild Goose Pagoda. Visit the impressive Provincial Museum

Beijing: visits to imposing Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City, the vast 15th century complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens that was once home to the emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. A visit is also made to the Temple of Heaven, an impressive shrine where Chinese emperors worshipped their gods. In the evening a special treat is in store - a Peking duck dinner, followed by a special Peking Opera show.

Visit the Great Wall: You will have the chance to walk along a portion of this 3,700-mile marvel. Later, travel through the valley of the Ming Tombs, burial sites of 13 Ming Dynasty emperors. Your route takes you for a scenic walk along an avenue called the Sacred Way. While here, experience the time-honored and favorite pastime of the Chinese when you go kite-flying.

Visit the Guilin Tea Institute to learn the art of tea picking and enjoy a traditional tea ceremony

sightseeing tour of the Summer Palace

Take a once-in-a-lifetime rickshaw tour through the narrow streets and alleys of the oldest part of Beijing. With help from an interpreter, learn about a local family’s history and way of life when you share lunch with them in their Hutong home. They will also teach you the art of traditional dumpling making.
Package Notes:
The trans-Pacific and international flights on this program are not included in the land price of your vacation. These flights need to be arranged and purchased seperately if you arrange your own air. Internal flights are included with the air portion of your vacation if you purchase air through the tour operator.
Many of the included dinners features Western cuisine.
*Many dinners are Western. Dinners on the cruise ship are a combination of Eastern and Western cuisine.
Due to the ongoing dam/flood project, the itinerary may vary slightly with little or no advance notice.
Itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
   
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