What is the difference between upstream and downstream sailings?

Upstream and downstream cruises include the same sights and excursions. Cruises sailing Chongqing to Yichang are 4 days and 3 nights, while Yichang to Chongqing cruises are 5 days and 4 nights (downstream cruises sail with the current and are a bit faster). 

What is included in the price of Yangtze River Cruise?

Your cruise price includes cruise accommodations, meals, entertainment, lectures and demonstrations on board. Your cruise price does not include the cost of your visa, personal travel insurance, service charge and tips on board, air and ground transportation, and items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone, internet, medical services, gift shop items, spa and beauty services. The price of shore excursions is listed separately on our website, but are almost always included when you book a package tour through a tour operator.

Are triples permitted?

Superior cabins are not roomy enough to include a third bed. For three passengers traveling together, it is suggested that either a suite be reserved, or the third passenger reserve a single or share basis in a separate cabin.

Do cabins have balconies?

Yes, all cabins on Century’s ships are outside cabins with balconies.

Do ships have elevators?

All ships of Century Cruises are featured with elevators, but those who have difficulty climbing stairs can request a cabin on one of the lower decks.

When are meals served and what type of meal service is provided?

Meal times will vary depending on the schedule of shore excursions. Times will be posted in a daily printed program distributed to each cabin. Meals are served in a single-seating Dynasty Dining Room. Sumptuous western and Chinese buffets are offered at breakfast, lunch and dinner. An elegant Captain’s Farewell Banquet is served on the final night of the cruise.
In addition to the main Dining Room, Century Cruises now offers a separate a la carte dining room on Century Paragon, Century Legend, Century Victory, Century Glory and Century Oasis. A la carte dining is available without additional charge to passengers in Suites and upgraded on Executive Decks, or for a supplementary charge for passengers in Deluxe Cabins on other decks.

What foreign currencies can be exchanged on board?

Century Cruises provides a money exchange service on board for various currencies such us US$, GBP, EUR, AUD$, CAD$, HKD$ to be exchanged into Renminbi (RMB), China ‘s local currency. 

What kinds of credit cards can be used on board?

For incidentals and gift shop purchases, we accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express, JCB. 

What if I have a special dietary request?

If you have special dietary requirements (such as vegetarian, low sodium, diabetic, gluten free etc.), please advise us of your needs at time of booking.

What is the voltage on board?

220 volts (110 volts in the bathroom). Adapters are available at the front desk (on a first come first served basis).

What activities are included on board when passengers are not on shore excursions?

Among the daytime activities are early morning tai chi, informative lectures about China and the Yangtze River, painting demonstrations, acupuncture
demonstrations, lessons in Chinese language, calligraphy, mahjong and silk kite flying. In the evening, guests can enjoy cultural presentations, traditional fashion shows and crew performances. Feature films and news broadcasts are available on your cabin television.

Does the ship have a fitness room?

Yes, each ship has a small fitness room, with some equipment.

How should I dress on the ship?

Casual attire is recommended both on board and on shore excursions. Be sure to have a pair of comfortable walking shoes for excursions. For the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Farewell Banquet, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and dress or dress pants for ladies is suggested.

What about tipping on board?

A modest service charge has been instituted by Century Cruises in lieu of tipping.Please check at time of booking for the current daily amount. The service charge does not include a gratuity to our river guides or the guide service on land program, which may be given at passengers' discretion based on their satisfaction with services received, as can gratuities for additional special services requested by passengers. (There is a mandatory service charge of USD30 per person.)
Personal crew tipping is voluntary but would be much appreciate by the person who made your trip even more enjoyable and memorable. Please be advised that the river guides do not share in the tips from the tip box.The general recommendation is $10.00-$15.00 per person for the cruise guides. On land excursions, tipping local guides, drivers and boatmen, who are not Century Cruises employees with a suggested amount of $5.00 each person. 

How do I pay for items purchased on board?

There is no cash flow aboard Century Cruises. You will simply sign for purchases made (in the gift shop, at the bar, beauty salon, etc.). Your final bill may be settled during your last night or last day on board, in any major currency, major credit card, or travelers checks.

Is telephone, internet and fax service available?

The latest satellite communications system are on board each ship, including international phoning capabilities, fax options and internet service (these services may not be available at all times in the Three Gorges). These services are fee-based, and you can sign these charges to your account and settle them at the end of your voyage.

Are safe deposit boxes available?

Yes, you may place your valuables in a safe deposit box in your room.

Are hair dryers available?

Yes, hair dryers may be requested from the front desk.

Is there laundry service?

Same day wash and pressing service is available, except on the final day of the cruise. We do not offer dry cleaning service.

Is smoking permitted on the ship?

No smoking is permitted inside the ship. Smoking is only permitted on the outside observation deck.