Century Cruises FAQ | Cruise Questions & Cruise Tips

Upstream and downstream cruises follow the same iconic Yangtze River route and include the same featured sights and excursions.

The primary difference is duration. Cruises from Chongqing to Yichang operate over 4 days and 3 nights, while sailings from Yichang to Chongqing operate over 5 days and 4 nights. Downstream cruises travel with the river current, which shortens the overall journey slightly.

Whichever direction you choose, the experience onboard and ashore remains consistent.

One of the most frequent cruise questions concerns what is included in the cruise fare.

Your fare typically includes private balcony accommodations, all onboard meals, enrichment programs, cultural demonstrations, evening entertainment, and scheduled shore excursions when booked as part of a cruise package.

Our full cruise tours may also include guided land programs and coordinated transfers before or after your river sailing, depending on the selected itinerary.

Visa fees, travel insurance, service charges, airfare, and personal expenses are confirmed at the time of booking to ensure full clarity.

Superior cabins are designed for two guests. For parties of three, we recommend reserving a suite or booking an additional cabin to ensure appropriate space and privacy throughout the voyage.

Yes. Every stateroom aboard Century Cruises ships includes a private balcony, offering uninterrupted river views and the opportunity to enjoy the scenery in comfort and privacy.

All ships are equipped with elevators for guest convenience. Guests with limited mobility may request lower-deck accommodations at the time of booking.

Same-day laundry and pressing services are available, except on the final day of the cruise. Dry cleaning services are not offered.

Dining onboard is relaxed and thoughtfully paced around the daily excursion schedule. Meal times are communicated through the daily program delivered to each cabin.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner include both Western and Chinese selections. The cruise also features a Captain’s Welcome Reception and a Farewell Banquet on the final evening.

Select ships offer an additional “à la carte” dining venue available to suite guests and select cabin categories.

Yes. Vegetarian, gluten-free, low-sodium, diabetic, and other dietary preferences can typically be accommodated. As one of our key cruise tips, we recommend informing us of any requirements at the time of booking.

When not ashore, guests may participate in cultural activities such as tai chi sessions, lectures on Chinese history and the Yangtze River, painting and calligraphy demonstrations, language introductions, mahjong, and silk kite crafting.

Evening programs include cultural performances and ship-hosted presentations. Feature films and news channels are also available in guest cabins.

For preferred sailing dates and cabin categories, we recommend reserving several months in advance, particularly during peak spring and autumn seasons.

Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and clear scenery. Summer sailings provide lush landscapes, while winter cruises offer a quieter and more intimate experience along the river.

Century Cruises operates a cashless system. All onboard purchases are charged to the guest’s account and settled prior to disembarkation.

Instead of traditional tipping, Century Cruises applies a mandatory service charge. The current amount is confirmed at the time of booking. Gratuities for local guides or land program staff may be offered at guests’ discretion.

Cabins operate on 220 volts, with 110 volts available in bathroom outlets. Adapters may be borrowed from the front desk, subject to availability.

Satellite-based internet and communication services are available onboard. Connectivity may be limited while cruising through certain areas of the Three Gorges region.

Resort-style casual attire is appropriate during the day and for shore excursions. For the Captain’s Reception and Farewell Banquet, guests may opt for more formal evening attire.

Smoking is not permitted inside the ship. Designated areas are available on the outdoor observation deck.