Showcasing the beauty and history of China’s mist-shrouded Yangtze River, Victoria Cruises's popular Three Gorges Highlights itinerary is now available from December 2, 2010 – March 13, 2011 at a fraction of the cost, featuring private balcony superior staterooms starting at just $470 per person, based on double occupancy— a savings of more than 40 percent off regular season rates.
Victoria Cruises plans to use two of its largest five-star ships – the brand new Victoria Jenna and recently renovated Victoria Katarina – for departures throughout December to accommodate a higher than usual demand for this period.
The Three Gorges Highlights winter special is available for upstream sailings from Yichang to Chongqing (five days/four nights) as well as downstream voyages from Chongqing to Yichang (four days/three nights).
In addition to spectacular views of centuries-old pagodas nestled along the Yangtze and a scenic experience sailing through the massive Three Gorges – known as one of China’s most stunning natural treasures – a one-time shore excursion fee of $65 per person (inclusive of all excursions) will provide guests with:
* An excursion to the Three Gorges Dam Site in San Dou Ping.
* A tour of the “Ghost City” of Fengdu at Mingshan Hill, complete with statures of spirits and demons.
* A sailing experience through the Small Gorges of the Daning River, one of the Yangtze’s tributaries. The scenic journey will bring passengers to a floating dock near Dachang, where they will disembark to board a traditional sampan for a tranquil ride through the “Mini Gorges” of the Ma Du River, a tributary of the Daning (Daning River excursion may be substituted with Shennong Stream depending on river conditions).
* Guests can also participate in exciting onboard activities such as Tai Chi lessons, acupuncture/acupressure demonstrations and discussions on the Yangtze’s history. Nightly entertainment options include traditional Chinese dance and musical performances.
Vacationers can enhance their journey by taking advantage of special discounts on lavish accommodations including Executive Suites or Junior Suites ($680 per person, based on double occupancy), Deluxe Suites ($890 per person, based on double occupancy) and the ultimate in luxury, Victoria Cruises’ Shangri-La Suites ($1,310 per person, based on double occupancy).
All prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements are 75 percent of the cruise fare in a superior stateroom and 100 percent of the cruise fare for suite accommodations.
For more information or for a list of tour operators which include the Yangtze River in their value-priced winter programs, contact Victoria Cruises toll-free at 800-348-8084.