Are you looking for the best time to take a Yangtze River cruise? Most cruises are operated between March and November each year. However, the best season for a Yangtze River cruise is April, May, September and October. At these months, the weather is neither too hot nor too cold.

Peak Season with Higher Prices
• April, May, September and October are usually the peak season.
• Cruise prices in these months are higher than the sailings in other months.
• If you are looking for a season with best scenery in a comfortable weather, the best time would be September and October.

Shoulder Season with Lower Prices

• January, February, March, June, July, August, November and December are usually the shoulder season
• Shoulder season sailings are with lower cruise prices.
• June, July and August are during summer season.
  Although the cruise ships are air-conditioned, but it would be hot for shore excursions. If you are travelling in summer, don’t forget to bring your sun glasses, sun cream.

Booking Tips

Based on our experience, actually the early November is also a good season to cruise on the Yangtze River, and the cruise prices are lower, compared to the peak season rates. The weather in early November is quite comfortable.

But most cruise ships will stop sailing in late November. If you are plan to cruise in November, we suggest you take a cruise departing before November 10.

Best Time to Take a Yangtze River Cruise

Best Time with Best Scenery
Take a cruise in April, May, September and October.
But we do recommend travelers avoid the first week of October, not only for the highest rates of the year, but also for crowds of people everywhere. It may be also difficult to book a train or flight ticket.

Best Time with Best Prices
Take a cruise in January, February, March, June, November, or even December. A Yangtze River cruise departing within these months are with the lowest rates.
Please be aware that there are quite few sailings in December, January and February.