Cruising the Yangzi with Sanctuary Retreats

Explore the Yangzi River and the stunning Three Gorges region in style with Sanctuary Retreats.

The Yangzi River, the world's third longest river at 6,280 kilometres (3,900 miles), is the symbolic lifeline of China. Flowing from Tibet to Shanghai, and cutting through the dramatic mountains of the Yangzi river basin, the Chinese people have long seen the river's power and beauty as representing the nation itself. Historically, the Yangzi served as a divider between northern and southern China, a natural barrier against invaders and a waterway for transport and commerce.The river basin is the country's heartland, home to 500 million people - a tenth of the world's population. 

The magnificent Three Gorges region is an area unsurpassed in sheer physical beauty, enriched by over 3,000 years of culture and history. During the Three Kingdoms Period (260-280 AD), the gorges played an important role in the course of China's history. During World War II, the gorges provide protection against the onslaught of the Japanese invasion. And in recent years, the Three Gorges have drawn international attention for both their majestic scenic beauty and for the controversial construction of the Three Gorges Dam - the largest dam project ever attempted. Begun in 1992 and completed in 2009, China's coming of age as a world power is heralded by this colossal feat of engineering, a Great Wall for the future.

Cruising in China?

Time Zone

GMT + 8 hours.

Language

Mandarin Chinese is the official language in mainland China. In Hong Kong, Cantonese is spoken.

Currency

The currency used in China is RENMINBI (RMB), which means the people’s currency.  Foreign currency can be exchanged in banks or licensed moneychangers. Each time you exchange currency, you will be issued a Receipt of Exchange. Please keep your receipts as any excess RMB you may be holding at the end of your trip cannot be exchanged without your receipts. Please note that exchanging money on the black market is a criminal offence.

Money matters

ATMs are not easily accessible on the journey. The ship can cash travellers cheques and accepts all major credit cards (MasterCard, Visa and American Express).

Tipping

Tipping onboard the Sanctuary M.S. Yangzi Explorer is entirely discretionary but general suggestions are as follows:

• For porters, RMB 10.00 per room
• Chongqing, RMB 40.00 per person for the guide and RMB 20.00 per person for the driver
  
• Fengdu/Wanxian excursion, RMB 40.00 per person for the guide and RMB 10.00 per person for the driver
  
• Shennong Stream, RMB 20.00 per person for boatman, and RMB 30.00 per person for the guide
  
• Three Gorges Dam Project excursion, RMB 30.00 per person for the guide and RMB 10.00 per person for the driver
  
• Yichang, RMB 40.00 per person for the guide and RMB 20.00 per person for the driver
• RMB 300.00 per person for the crew of the M.S. Yangzi Explorer
  

Arrival & Departure Formalities

In most cases, visitors to China require a valid visa to enter the country. However, there are certain exemptions applicable to some countries. Please consult with the embassy of the People's Republic of China for information on exemptions that apply to your country.

Visas can be obtained through proper application from any embassy of the People's Republic of China or consular office empowered to grant visas. Single entry visas for China are valid for 30 days. Double entry and multiple entry visas (valid for 3 or 6 months) are also available.

Weather

The Three Gorges region is protected by mountains to the north and enjoys a humid subtropical climate. Spring (March to May) is mild with occasional light rains. Summer (June to September) is hot and humid, while Autumn (October to November) is milder and drier. Winter (December to February) is cool, but please note that the Sanctuary M.S. Yangzi Explorer is not in operation during this season. 

Click here for Temperature & Rainfall Charts.

Health

For up to date information on the latest health and vaccination recommendations, please contact your local health practitioner.

Electricity

220 volts/50 cycles. If purchasing an adaptor make sure it has different plug sizes as they vary from city to city in China.

Clothing

When in China, dress for comfort and with consideration for the local population's penchant for modesty. Pack lightweight cottons for summer, and prepare for weather extremes in spring and autumn. Layers are a good idea, as is a light raincoat. Smart casuals or jacket and tie are appropriate for the Captain's Welcome Reception and Farewell Dinner. Shore excursions entail a great deal of walking, so sensible and comfortable footwear is essential.

Journeys in China