By
Rebecca |
Victoria Cruises has repositioned Victoria Sophia to offer its popular Three Gorges Highlights itinerary on China’s Yangtze River this year.
Joining the rest of the US-managed line’s ships on the Yangtze, Victoria Sophia will sail three and three- and four-night cruises between Chongqing and Yichang.
Guests will be able to choose between standard and optional shore excursions. These will include an educational tour of the Three Gorges Dam, the largest hydroelectric dam project in the world. Meanwhile in Shibaozhai, passengers can see a 12-storey, 18th-century wooden pagoda and take a trip on a traditional Chinese sampan on the Yangtze’s tributaries.
Optional shore excursions will include a visit to the White Emperor City, which overlooks the Western end of the Qutang Gorge. On upstream voyages, passengers can participate in an optional ‘Tribe of the Three Gorges’ excursion for an additional US$45 per person. This takes guests to the Xiling Gorge region where they can see the Huanglong Waterfall, Toad Spring, statues of the ancient Ba nationality, Dragon Stream, Monkey Hill and Lover Bridge. In addition, they will meet local fishermen and enjoy a Crying Wedding performance, a custom of the Tujia nationality.
Visitors can combine a Yangtze River sailing with a comprehensive tour of China's historic cities with one of Victoria Cruises' reputable tour operator partners. These include Isramworld’s Asian Vistas, Pacific Delight Tours, Ritz Tours and Travcoa.
Onboard highlights will include lectures, nightly entertainment and a dining programme designed by Emmy Award-winning celebrity chef Walter Staib. As the only US-managed cruise line on the Yangtze River, Viking Cruises offers a culinary programme and passenger amenities designed to meet the preferences of Western travellers.