Victoria Cruises Adds New Excursions For 2018 – River Cruise Season On China’s Majestic Yangtze
In order to enhance the passenger experience and provide greater flexibility based on river conditions, Victoria Cruises will debut two new excursions when its 2018 sailing season on China’s mist-shrouded Yangtze River commences in March.
As an alternative to Shibaozhai, where passengers experience an impressive 12-story wooden pagoda dating back to the 18th century, the only American-managed line on China’s Yangtze will include the Jade Emperor Scenic Area in Fengdu on select departures.
The Jade Emperor is the supreme deity of Chinese Taoism. The sacred scenic area lies on the northern side of Yangtze west of Mingshan Mountain and east of Shuangguishan National Forest. At more than 100 feet tall, it is the largest statue in the world depicting the Jade Emperor and is modeled according to the principles of Feng Shui.
The scenic area features more than 30 different styles of traditional architecture and over 208 deity sculptures depicting Taoist and Buddhist culture.
Additionally, Victoria Cruises will debut an excursion to the Hometown of Qu Yuan, a cultural highlight at the foot of Phoenix Mountain with sweeping views of the Three Gorges Dam and surrounding scenery. Qu Yuan is a celebrated poet and statesman who served as chancellor to King Huai of the Kingdom of Chu 23 centuries ago and whose tragic exile and death inspired the Dragon Boat Festival, which is commemorated every May.
Passengers will observe hanging coffins, learn about dragon boating and enjoy a performance of Chinese traditional witchcraft during the excursion, which may be featured as an alternative to the Tribe of the Three Gorges excursion, based on river conditions.
In addition to taking in the famed Three Gorges scenery from one’s private balcony (featured in all staterooms on Victoria Cruises’ five-star ships), passengers will enjoy world-class dining designed for the Western palate with onboard activities such as acupuncture/acupressure demonstrations, Tai Chi lessons and nightly entertainment featuring traditional Chinese dance and musical performances.
For an additional charge, passengers can upgrade their onboard experience with Victoria Cruises’ Luxury Amenities program, which offers VIP perks including upper deck stateroom placement, access to exclusive ship areas, “white glove” service, enhanced culinary privileges such as wine and beer with dinner, exclusive happy hour and complimentary Wi-Fi Internet access.
Daily departures for both the Three Gorges Highlights and Three Gorges Explorer itineraries will be offered March 15 – Nov. 25, 2018.
Victoria Cruises’ Yangtze River voyages are included in the comprehensive escorted or independent China packages offered by some of the finest tour operators worldwide.
