Difference Between Downstream and Upstream of Yangtze Cruise

The Yangtze River Cruise offers two main routes: downstream and upstream. Each provides a unique experience based on the direction of travel, the pace of the journey, and the time spent exploring.

Downstream Cruise

A downstream cruise travels from Chongqing to Yichang or Shanghai, depending on the itinerary. Since the river’s flow naturally moves downstream, these cruises tend to be faster and more relaxed. Here’s what to expect:

• Duration: Typically 4 days from Chongqing to Yichang.
• Speed: Faster due to the river’s natural current.
• Scenery: You’ll see the same stunning landscapes, such as the Three Gorges and various historical and natural sites, but at a quicker pace.
• Cost: Downstream cruises are often more affordable because they require less fuel and time.

Advantages of Yangtze sailing downstream

• Fast speed, 28~30km average per hour.
• Normally no sailing at night, thus no affecter to entertainment on board (dining hall and dance bar are normally located at the tail of the cruise where stands a relatively big shock).
• Shore excursion arrangement at daytime, the cruise will be waiting, you are ensured to have a full visit through three gorges scenery.

Disadvantages of Yangtze sailing downstream

• Fast sailing speed brings quick passing between each spots, 8 km long Qutang gorges only needs several minutes to pass, you may not have enough time choosing between photography, guide’s words and sightseeing.
• More expensive for a downstream cruise.

Upstream Cruise

An upstream cruise runs against the river’s current, from Yichang to Chongqing. Because it’s slower, it offers a more leisurely experience, allowing more time to enjoy the scenery and onboard activities. Here’s what to expect:

• Duration: Usually 5 days, a bit longer than downstream.
• Speed: Slower due to traveling against the current.
• Scenery: The same breathtaking sites, but at a slower pace, giving you more time for sightseeing.
• Cost: Upstream cruises are often slightly more expensive, reflecting the longer duration and greater energy required to move against the current.

Advantages of Yangtze sailing upstream

•  Average 15~18 km sailing speed ensures you plenty time to watch, listen and take pictures during the cruise.
• Cheaper price for a upstream cruise
• More time on board leaves foreign visitors more time to explore Chinese culture, history and folk entertainment.

Disadvantages of Yangtze sailing upstream

• Low speed, sometimes in order to arrive at next scenic spot on time, the cruise has to sail at night, which more or less affects tourists’s rest.
• Only pass the ship lock at 12:00-2:00a.m, also would affect tourists’ rest or arrangement at this time slide.

Both options offer access to iconic landmarks such as the Three Gorges Dam, Shennong Stream, and various cultural sites, but your choice depends on how much time you have and whether you prefer a faster or more relaxed journey.