Upstream vs Downstream: How to Choose the Right Yangtze River Cruise?

### **1. Sailing Direction and Duration**
- **Downstream (Following the Current)**
**Route**: Chongqing → Yichang (following the Yangtze River flow)
**Duration**: Typically 3 nights/4 days (about 72 hours)
**Features**: Faster sailing speed, shorter duration, suitable for travelers with limited time. Daytime viewing of major attractions like Qutang Gorge and Wu Gorge.
- **Upstream (Against the Current)**
**Route**: Yichang → Chongqing (against the river flow)
**Duration**: Typically 4 nights/5 days (about 96 hours)
**Features**: Slower sailing speed, more relaxed itinerary, ideal for those who prefer slow travel and in-depth experiences. The ship is more stable when sailing against the current, reducing the feeling of turbulence.
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### **2. Differences in Attraction Coverage**
- **Downstream Advantages**:
- Experience the magnificent "Kuimen, the most majestic pass under heaven" (entrance to Qutang Gorge).
- Some cruises arrange daytime passage through Wu Gorge, with better lighting for photography.
- **Upstream Advantages**:
- Potentially longer stops at attractions (such as Fengdu Ghost City, Shibaozhai).
- Some travelers believe the viewing angles are better when sailing upstream (e.g., in the Xiling Gorge section).
**Note**: Regardless of direction, mainstream cruises cover the same core attractions (Three Gorges Dam, Lesser Three Gorges, Goddess Stream, etc.), just in different order.
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### **3. Comfort and Price**
- **Comfort**:
- Upstream cruises are slower with less noise and vibration, suitable for light sleepers.
- Downstream saves time but may feel slightly more rushed.
- **Price**:
- Little price difference between upstream and downstream, though upstream may be slightly cheaper during off-season (due to lower demand).
- On the same cruise ship, cabin prices mainly depend on deck level and amenities.
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### **4. How to Choose?**
- **Choose Downstream (Chongqing → Yichang) if**:
✓ You want to save time while experiencing the essence of the Three Gorges.
✓ You want to enjoy the exhilarating feeling of "sailing swiftly past countless mountains."
✓ Transportation from Chongqing is more convenient (e.g., direct flights to Chongqing).
- **Choose Upstream (Yichang → Chongqing) if**:
✓ You prefer a more leisurely pace, suitable for seniors or families with young children.
✓ You want to reduce the risk of seasickness (upstream is more stable).
✓ You plan to depart from Yichang (e.g., for subsequent travel to Wuhan/Shanghai).
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### **5. Additional Tips**
- **Seasonal Factors**:
- Peak season (April-October) offers more frequent sailings in both directions; during the dry season (December-March), some routes may be adjusted.
- **Cruise Selection**:
- Prioritize the vessel (such as Century series, Yangtze No. 3), which offer better facilities and services.
- Check specific itineraries, as some premium cruises may have different attraction arrangements for upstream and downstream journeys.
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**Summary**: Both upstream and downstream cruises have their merits, with the main differences being time and pace. If you have ample time and value experience, choose upstream; if you seek efficiency or prefer sailing with the current, choose downstream. Consider your departure point, vacation length, and personal preferences when deciding.
Yichang Passenger Port