Sail through the Three Gorges on board the world’s largest river ship and discover China’s ancient imperial monuments on this unforgettable luxury adventure.
Flying to Shanghai, your journey begins with a two-night hotel stay in Shanghai, where relics of China’s ancient past stand alongside shining modern skyscrapers. Following a night in Yichang, you’ll embark the world’s largest river ship, Victoria Sabrina, for a four-night voyage through the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges region.
Marvel at emerald waterways surrounded by mountains and enjoy onshore excursions on your route to Chonqing. Travelling to Chengdu, you’ll explore the world’s leading panda breeding centre before your journey continues in Xi’an and Beijing. During a series of tours, discover the treasures of China’s imperial past, from the lifelike sculptures of the Terracotta Warriors to the stone battlements of the Great Wall.
Your Imagine Holiday Includes
4 night full-board river cruise on board Victoria Sabrina
Three Gorges Dam
Sail through Shennong Stream, Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge
Fengdu “Snow Jade Cave”
2 night five-star stay in Shanghai at the Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel
Shanghai city tour including Yu Garden and the Bund
Auckland departure – regional flights available
Your Tour
Your Itinerary
Your holiday begins as you fly from New Zealand to your destination.
Enjoy a two-night hotel stay in one of China’s most exciting cities. Stroll along the historic Bund for stunning skyline views, savour local delicacies, and explore the intricate beauty of Jade Buddha Temple.
Overnight: Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel
Discover the incredible, 400-year history of Yu Garden, which was restored to its former glory in 1956. In the afternoon, enjoy a tour of the Bund, the historic waterfront where magnificent colonial architecture opposes enormous skyscrapers.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel
In Hubei Province, Yichang serves as the gateway to the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges. Here you’ll enjoy a sightseeing tour uncovering the city’s attractions including Binjiang Park, Yichang Museum, and the shops of Wanda Square.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Yichang
The largest river ship in the world, Victoria Sabrina features six passenger decks, a cultural theatre, and a grand, three-storey atrium. Her elegant staterooms and spacious observation deck perfectly complement the Three Gorges scenery.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight: Victoria Sabrina
Spanning the Yangtze River, the Three Gorges Dam is the world’s largest power station. Marvel at this incredible feat of engineering that stretches over two kilometres before continuing through the imposing Xiling Gorge region.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Victoria Sabrina
Today you’ll transfer to smaller vessels to access the small gorges of Shennong Stream. These enchanting waterways lead deep into an impenetrable wilderness where forest-shrouded cliffs rise from emerald waters.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Victoria Sabrina
Wu Gorge is celebrated for its quiet beauty, with forest-covered mountains and cliffs so sheer that the sun barely hits them. Later in the day, sail through the dramatic Qutang Gorge, which snakes for eight kilometres through some of the region’s most stunning scenery.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Victoria Sabrina
Today your cruise itinerary includes shore excursions to the stalactites of Snow Jade Cave and Xiao Guan Shan Folk Culture Park. Depending on river conditions, an alternate excursion may be substituted to Shibaozhai with its impressive wooden pagoda.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Overnight: Victoria Sabrina
Disembarking in Chongqing, you’ll take the high-speed train to Chengdu for a two-night stay. The capital of Sichuan Province, Chengdu is home to not just one of Asia’s richest culinary cultures, but the country’s leading panda breeding programme.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Shangri-La Chengdu
A highlight of your holiday, today you’ll visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for an up-close encounter with the national animal of China. Meander through the winding pathways and observe the bears asleep and at play.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight: Shangri-La Chengdu
Travel to Xi’an by train for a two-night escape and the imposing Terracotta Army. History buffs will also appreciate the Bell Tower of Xi’an, built in 1384, while foodies may wish to stroll the Muslim Quarter, packed with tasty local cuisine.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner
Overnight: Gran Meliá Xian
Uncovered in 1974 by farmers, the 8,000 soldiers of the Terracotta Army are a symbol of the power and megalomania of Qin Shi Huangdi, China’s first emperor. Sculpted in 210 BC, each of the figures carries its own unique features.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight: Gran Meliá Xian
China’s high-speed Fast Train awaits. Leaving Xi’an behind, you’ll journey to Beijing for three nights. Take a rickshaw ride through historical districts or seek serenity at the 11th-century Beihai Park, which boasts a wealth of historical structures, palaces, and temples.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing
Get ready for the Great Wall of China – the longest wall in the world and the only manmade structure visible from space! Discover its 2,000-year history, then explore the breathtaking Summer Palace and imperial gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing
Visit the magnificent Temple of Heaven with its symbolic representations of heaven and Earth, together with the scarlet-walled Forbidden City – home to imperial rulers. Then on to the remarkable Tiananmen Square and the heart of the People’s Republic.
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
Overnight: NUO Hotel Beijing
Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your Tour Highlights
Prices
Superior Cabin (Private Balcony) Prices from $7,499pp
Executive Suite (Large Private Balcony) Prices from $9,499pp
Your Hotel Stays
Shanghai
Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel (Or Similar)
The Renaissance Shanghai Yu Garden Hotel seamlessly blends modern luxury with traditional Chinese charm. Indulge in delectable dining at the stylish YU Bar, serving exquisite cocktails and panoramic views. Unwind in the serene Aura Spa, offering rejuvenating treatments. Admire the hotel’s elegant décor, inspired by classic Chinese elements and contemporary design. Enjoy spacious, well-appointed rooms with scenic city views, ensuring a memorable stay in Shanghai.
Yichang
Crowne Plaza Yichang (Or Similar)
The luxurious Crowne Plaza Yichang overlooks the Yangtze River, where it offers a modern elegance and comfort. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, multiple dining options, and state-of-the-art leisure amenities including a fitness centre, indoor pool, and versatile meeting spaces. Its convenient location near major attractions like the Three Gorges Dam and Yiling Square makes it an ideal choice for exploring the region.
Chengdu
Shangri-La Chengdu (Or Similar)
panoramic views of the Jinjiang River and the city’s glistening skyline, Shangri-La Chengdu offers elegant design and world-class service. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites, tastefully furnished with modern amenities. Guests can indulge in fine dining at its restaurants, which serve both local Sichuan cuisine and international dishes. The hotel also boasts a fully equipped fitness centre, an indoor pool, and a tranquil spa. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring attractions like Tianfu Square and the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
Xi'an
Gran Meliá Xian (Or Similar)
Located next to Tang Paradise, Gran Meliá Xian offers private gardens, a lake, and even a big-name shopping mall amidst its welcoming grounds. Guests can enjoy meals at a choice of five restaurants, or work off the calories in the well-equipped fitness centre. There’s also a beautiful indoor pool beneath a panoramic roof as well as a hot tub and spa. Every room comes with a TV, air conditioning, and a balcony offering views of wither the lake or the city. Enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the property.
Beijing
NUO Hotel Beijing (Or Similar)
The NUO Hotel Beijing, located in the Chaoyang District, is a luxury hotel known for its exquisite design, elegant accommodations, and commitment to Chinese art and culture. The hotel offers a range of spacious and well-appointed rooms and suites, all designed with a blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Chinese elements.
