Yangtze River Cruising Seasons

High seasons on the Yangtze River generally coincide with the cooler months of Spring and Autumn. In particular, April and May are popular months for cruising, as the winter thaw brings new life to the fertile Yangtze River Delta. September and October are equally popular times to travel, as the heat of summer slowly dissipates. However, a Yangtze River cruise in winter is not without its charms, with the low water levels revealing much more of the Three Gorges' breathtaking scenery.

Major Yangtze River Cruise Lines

Uniworld – Century Paragon

Luxury is paramount aboard Uniworld's state-of-the-art, five-star-rated Century Paragon. You can cruise the Yangtze in comfort and style in one of Uniworld's Signature Suites, which comes complete with your own private balcony, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi access and satellite TV. There are also two restaurants, a lap pool with relaxation area and poolside bar, a dedicated spa and a fitness centre for you to while away the hours when you're not admiring the dramatic scenery.

Victoria Cruises – Victoria Jenna

While Victoria Cruises boasts an impressive fleet of no less than seven dedicated Yangtze River cruise ships, the Victoria Jenna is certainly one of the biggest and undoubtedly one of the best. A thoroughly modern vessel which welcomes guests into a three-storey atrium lobby, the Jenna also boasts two restaurants, several lounges and bars, the Oasis beauty salon and a dedicated fitness centre – making it one of the most luxurious cruise ships currently plying the Yangtze.

Viking River Cruises – Viking Emerald

There are plenty of thoroughly contemporary vessels cruising the Yangtze River, and the Viking Emerald is no exception. Experience some old-world scenery whilst surrounded by modern luxury, on board this sophisticated river cruiser. Boasting spacious staterooms, each with a veranda, a shaded sun-deck and all the modern amenities one would expect of a luxury river cruise line, the Viking Emerald is one of the Yangtze's most popular river cruisers.