Here is some practical information for you to get general ideas about cruising on the Yangtze River and help you make you booking much easier.
- What are the differences between upstream and downstream Yangtze River cruises?
Upstream cruise lasts 5 days / 4 nights, and downstream takes 4 days /3 nights. Although the duration is different, the sightseeing is almost the same. - Do the schedules/sightseeing for the Yangtze River cruises change?
The Yangtze River is the biggest river in Asia, and the sailing conditions may change due to weather or navigational conditions. Also, the Government may impose a restriction on very short notice for special occasions. We at Century River Cruises, should there be a change, will try our best to ensure the least impact on your itinerary. - What is the best time to cruise the Yangtze River?
The best seasons to take a Yangtze River cruise are spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is cool and comfortable. These four months are often called high seasons. Otherwise, winter is the best time in terms of price. The prices are the best for the winter cruises and the highest in high season. Additionally, Century Cruises operates year-round sailings on the Yangtze River. - When should I book our cruise?
We recommend that you book as early as possible to avoid disappointment. The Yangtze River Cruises are very popular, and ships fill quickly, especially in peak travel seasons. - How can I store my valuables while on my Yangtze River Cruise?
Safe boxes are provided for free on Century Cruises. You may also deposit your valuable items at the Front Desk if needed. - Are the cruise fares for one person or for one cabin?
All cruise rates are PER PERSON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. A single cabin may be subject to a single supplement charge. - Is smoking permitted on the ship?
No smoking is permitted inside the ship. Smoking is only permitted on the outside observation deck. - Are there medical facilities on board?
There is a doctor present on board each ship trained in Chinese and Western medicine. - Can the staff on board speak English?
Most of the staff speak English, and all the information is given in English. Also, the tour guide will provide an English explanation. - Can we take our children with us on the cruise and can we share the same cabin with them?
Yes, you can cruise the Yangtze River as a family and you can share a cabin with your children because usually there is enough space to add a bed for a child. But extra charges should be paid in accordance with the children's ages (as on their passports). - What is the dress code on Yangtze River cruises?
For the Captain’s Welcome Party, the dress code is formal when gentlemen would be required to wear a jacket and ladies dress/skirt. However, you can wear smart casual. Please bring a sunhat and comfortable walking shoes. During the summer, sunscreen is also recommended.
- What kind of food will be served on board?
Century Cruises’ highly praised dining experience is reflective of China's ever-enriching culinary landscape, with a fusion of Western dishes. Lunch and dinner offer both Chinese and Western buffet meals with a variety of choices that are almost too exquisite to tuck into. Meals are generally served in the single-seating main restaurant, with marvelous picture windows that invite the dramatic scenery of the Yangtze inside. If you are looking for a more intimate setting, you can try our sophisticated, elegant à la carte restaurant, which offers authentic home-style cuisine. - Besides the sightseeing, are there any other activities offered on board?
You can choose to indulge yourself in the Zen Spa Center or relax in the quiet Library, try the traditional Chinese board game Ma Jong, or the art of Chinese Calligraphy. Or keep fit in the state-of-the-art fitness center or the largest heated indoor swimming pool on the Yangtze River. Alternatively, you can engross yourself in learning the ancient relaxation technique Tai Chi on the observation deck, which offers unparalleled 360-degree views. - Is the water onboard safe to drink?
Drinkable water is offered through the cabin electronic kettle and complimentary bottled water. Please do not drink the tap water directly unless boiled. - Is the tipping compulsory?
There is an amount USD30/pp/cruise, which is regarded as a mandatory one-off service charge for passengers who will take the cruise along the Yangtze River. And to ensure that it would be beneficial to the crew who will provide services to you onboard, as well as good for the sustainable development of the Yangtze cruise industry.
Besides, tipping is voluntary but would be much appreciated by the person who made your trip even more enjoyable and memorable.
The general recommendation is $10.00-$15.00 per person, per day for the crew. At your discretion, you could also give some individual tips to the person who may have provided excellent services. Please be advised that the river guides do not share in the tips from the tip box. On land excursions, tipping local guides, drivers, and boatmen who are not Century Cruises employees is also voluntary, with a suggested amount of $5.00 per person. - Can I use my credit card on board? If so, what kinds of credit cards can be used on board?
For incidentals and gift shop purchases, we accept Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. However, there is no cash flow aboard Century Cruises. For any purchase, you may simply sign a chit and present your room key card to the staff. It will be added to your final bill, which may be settled on the final night or day on board. Payment may be made in any major currency, including Chinese Renminbi. All major credit cards and traveler's checks are accepted. - What foreign currencies can be exchanged on board?
Century Cruises provides a money exchange service on board for various currencies such as US$, GBP, EUR, AUD$, CAD$, HKD$ to be exchanged into Renminbi (RMB), China's local currency.
- Are there balconied cabins available on the Yangtze cruise ships?
All ships of Century Cruises feature balconies with river views. - Are transformer/converter/adapter available on the Yangtze cruise ships?
Take along a plug adapter. Electricity aboard all our ships is 220 volts and 110 volts in the bathroom. The wattage may not be compatible with your hair dryer. If you forget an adapter, you don’t have to worry, as video cameras, digital cameras, and other electrical appliances can be recharged at the front desk. - What does the price of a Yangtze River Cruise include?
Fares include accommodations in the category confirmed and services from the point of embarkation to the point of disembarkation, meals, and sightseeing as specified in the contract. Cruise fares are based on tariffs and exchange rates. The price excludes personal expenses, like laundry, phone calls, internet, etc. - What health conditions do I need to fulfill to cruise on the Yangtze? Do I need to bring my medical records?
There are no special health requirements for cruising on the Yangtze River. However, those with medical problems are advised to consult their doctor before traveling to China. - One question that is very often asked is whether malaria precautions/medicines should be taken for a Yangtze Cruise?
The best advice we can give is to talk to your GP, who will have up to date with information and act accordingly.
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