2 for 1 Yangtze Cruise & Panda Experience

• Return international full-service flights (economy class), departure city surcharges may apply

• 3 nights of 4-star hotel accommodation

• Take a 4-night cruise along the Yangtze River
• Cruise aboard the recently refurbished 'China Goddess No.2' ship
• Stay in a private balcony cabin with an ensuite bathroom

• Enjoy 14 meals including all meals while cruising
• Indulge in a Captain’s Farewell banquet dinner onboard your river cruise

• English-speaking tour guides
• Airline taxes and surcharges

• Transportation by private air-conditioned vehicles
• One-way high-speed train journey (or domestic flight if unavailable)

• Return airport and cruise port transfers

• Optional Tours: Optional experiences and tours are available to add to your itinerary (see checkout for details)
• Flight Upgrades: Upgrade to Business Class (see checkout for details)

Today you'll depart Australia for Chengdu, China, on an overnight flight.

Please note:
• Some travellers may depart on Day 0.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in China with accommodation and transfers provided by the airline.
• Some travellers may have an overnight layover in an Australian city with airport accommodation provided (excluding transfers).
• Some travellers may arrive early in the morning of Day 2.

Meals included: In-Flight

Welcome to Chengdu, a vibrant and culturally rich city located in the heart of Sichuan Province, China. Known as the 'Land of Abundance', Chengdu offers a unique blend of history, cuisine and natural beauty that makes it a must-visit destination for tourists.

When you arrive in Chengdu, you'll be met at the airport and head out on an introductory tour of Chengdu. Your first stop is Kuanzhai Alley, one of Chengdu’s three historic conservation districts that was constructed in 1718 during the early years of the Qing Dynasty. This charming pedestrian thoroughfare is home to an eclectic mix of classic Sichuan architecture, modern cafes and smart boutiques. As you explore, listen to commentary from your guide about the district's history and design, while you marvel at some of the city’s old establishments like traditional teahouses and Chinese calligraphy demonstrations that sit alongside the new.

You'll then visit Heming Teahouse, nestled in the People's Park this has always been a popular destination for both locals and visitors who are looking for a relaxing cup of tea or a unique cultural experience. The ambience of Heming Teahouse is peaceful and serene, providing a respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The teahouse is decorated in traditional Chinese style with wooden tables and bamboo chairs adding to the atmosphere. Finish the day back at your hotel and enjoy an optional Hot Pot dinner in the evening (not included).

Optional Activity: Sichuan Hot Pot Dinner - 220 RMB per person

Overnight: Yunhao Holiday Hotel or similar, Chengdu

Meals included: None

This morning you'll visit the famous Giant Panda Breeding and Research Base of Chengdu which has been created to imitate the natural habitat of giant pandas so that they have the best possible environment for rearing and breeding. The giant pandas are not only a Chinese national treasure but are also beloved by people the world over. These animals are found only in Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces so in total there are fewer than 2,000 with more than 70% within the territory of Sichuan Province.

Late in the morning, you'll visit a jade factory, then travel to nearby Leshan where you will take a cruise to view the UNESCO World Heritage Leshan Giant Buddha. The Leshan Giant Buddha is a 71-metre tall stone statue that was built between 713 and 803 and depicts Maitreya. It is carved out of a cliff face of Cretaceous red bed sandstone that lies at the confluence of the Min River and Dadu River, in the southern part of Sichuan Province. Afterwards, you'll drive onwards to Emeishan City which is located in the shadow of Mount Emei (Emeishan) and is the highest of the country's four sacred Buddhist mountains at 3099 metres. On arrival, check into your hotel for an evening at leisure or join an optional tour to watch the famous Emei Kung Fu Show (not included).

Optional Activity: Emei Kung Fu Show – 280 RMB per person

Overnight: Huasheng Hotel or similar, Emeishan

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning, enjoy some free time to explore the area at your own pace or join an optional tour to visit the famous Ruocheng Ancient Town. In the afternoon you'll visit Bao Guo Temple, the largest temple at Emei Mountain which is the doorway to the mountain as well as the centre of Buddhist activity of Emei Mountain, before returning to Chengdu in the evening.

Optional Activity: Ruocheng Ancient Town & Lunch - 290 RMB per person
This is one of the most beautiful old towns in Western China where you'll find ancient streets scattered with stores selling local snacks and special old objects, ancient trees that have been towering for more than one hundred years, ancient folk houses have been built in pile dwelling style, and traditional activities of Sichuan are ever-present.

Overnight: Yunhao Holiday Hotel or similar, Chengdu

Meals included: Breakfast

This morning you'll transfer to Chengdu Railway Station for an approximately 6.5-hour high-speed train journey to Yichang. Upon arrival, a tour representative will meet you at the railway station to escort you to a local restaurant for a group dinner before you check in to your Yangtze River cruise onboard 'China Goddess No.2'. Settle into your balcony cabin with a private ensuite and prepare for the next day’s sightseeing on the amazing Yangtze River. This is the ancient pathway across China which spans centuries of cultures and blends the best of the old and the modern.

The 'China Goddess No.2' ship was launched in November 2014 and will undergo a complete refurbishment in March 2024 which will leave it looking and feeling brand new. With the theme of “Chinese Civilization, Three Gorges & Goddess Culture”, the cruise is like a moving Three Gorges culture exhibition centre. On the ship, you'll enjoy not only the spectacular Three Gorges scenery but also the culture and stories of the China Goddess.

Please note: Depending on availability, the rail journey may be replaced with a domestic flight.

Overnight: Damei Cruises, ‘China Goddess No.2 Ship’

Meals included: Breakfast; Dinner

After breakfast, enjoy an optional shore excursion to either the Three Gorges Dam or to the Three Gorges Tribe (optional shore excursions not included) before departing upstream through the west section of Xiling Gorge in the late afternoon, the first of these dramatic slices through the surrounding mountains. The new reservoir has altered the landscape and with more than a million people relocated, the scenery is now a wild countryside and the physical embodiment of thousands of beautiful Chinese landscape paintings. Watch the fog move in as it appears to turn the mountains into ghostly sculptures and enjoy a sumptuous Captain’s Dinner for your evening meal.

Optional Activity: Three Gorges Tribe – 450 RMB per person

Optional Activity: Three Gorges Dam – 450 RMB per person
Admire the 60-storey, mile-wide structure which is a stunning example of human achievement and a hallmark of an emerging China (river conditions permitting).

Overnight: Damei Cruises, ‘China Goddess No.2 Ship’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

Take an optional morning side excursion to the Lesser Three Gorges (not included) before sailing through the Wu Gorge and Qutang Gorge. Wu Gorge is 45 kilometres long and is known for its deep serene scenes, while the 8-kilometre Qutang Gorge is full of zigzags, strange peaks, rising mists and beautiful sights. Choose to take part in an additional optional shore excursion in the late afternoon (river conditions permitting) before enjoying a feast of local cuisine and entertainment during dinner.

Optional Activity: The Lesser Three Gorges (not included – 450 RMB per person)
You will see where the mighty Yangtze flows faster and has carved narrower, even more dramatic, rising stone cliffs. While cruising, you can spot the coffins of the Ba people suspended along an ancient plank road that hugs the cliff face.

Optional Activity: White Emperor City

Optional Activity: “Return to the Three Gorges” Live Show

Overnight: Damei Cruises, ‘China Goddess No.2 Ship’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

This morning, after breakfast, you can choose to experience an optional adventurous shore excursion to Fengdu Xueyu Dong (not included) or the scenic Wulingshan Mountain range (not included). The day finishes with a Captain’s Farewell Banquet dinner.  

Optional Activity: Fengdu Xueyu Dong – 450 RMB per person
This ancient village of temples is full of shrines to the gods of the underworld. Visitors are said to be purified after they 'survive' the scares. Surrounded by misty mountains, this area was revered as a crossing-over point, a mix of the material and spiritual worlds.

Optional Activity: Wulingshan Mountain Range
Only available if the river conditions permit.

Overnight: Damei Cruises, ‘China Goddess No.2 Ship’

Meals included: Breakfast; Lunch; Dinner

After breakfast, disembark your cruise in Chongqing and transfer to Chongqing Airport for your homebound flight.

Please note: If your flight departs in the afternoon, an optional city tour may be offered (not included).
Some travellers may be required to depart a day later and additional accommodation and transfers will be provided free of charge. This will not apply to passengers departing before 2am the following day as they will be transferred to the airport the day prior.

Meals included: Breakfast; In-Flight

Please note: Some customers may arrive +1 days.

 
After purchase, you will receive a receipt and a Purchase Confirmation, directing you to an online Passenger Information Form. You must complete the Passenger Information Form within 72 hours of purchase. Any special requests, preferences and optional extras MUST be clearly stated in your Passenger Information Form. Any change requested after submitting your Passenger Information Form cannot be guaranteed, is strictly subject to availability and will incur surcharges as outlined in the Schedule of Fees below.
 
On purchasing this Travel Offer, you are bound by the General Terms and Conditions and the specific terms and conditions outlined in this Important Information.
 
Please note: All countries and territories have different entry requirements in relation to vaccinations, quarantine/isolation periods and travel restrictions. Due to the evolving nature, we would ask all of our customers to monitor, meet and adhere to the specific requirements of their intended destination(s) in the lead-up to and immediately before travel, as well as any requirements post-travel upon their return.
 
CANCELLATION POLICY
Tour packages are non-refundable. If your tour package is affected by Covid-19-related travel restrictions and you are unable to travel, you will receive either a free date change (credit that is specific to your original package and purchase value) or an open credit less any non-recoverable supplier fees to the value of your original purchase for use on any other tour or package available via the TripADeal website.
 
Please note: Date change credits are subject to availability and not guaranteed until confirmed by TripADeal, not the tour operator you are due to stay with. We recommend you consider purchasing travel insurance with Covid-19 protection. The standard cancellation policy will apply if you cannot travel because you have tested positive for Covid-19.
 
Please note: All additional charges are payable in AUD (unless otherwise stated).
 

This travel offer is valid for travel on selected dates until 22nd March 2025.
 
This travel offer is priced for 2 people based on a twin share.
 
Single Traveller Supplement
For solo travellers, no discounts apply (a full-priced voucher for two must be purchased).
Please note: Accommodation for single customers who are travelling on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, depending on availability.
 
Departure Dates
2024
September: 7*
October: 12*, 19, 26
November: 2, 9 
 
2025
March: 15, 22^
Please note: See checkout for live dates and availability.
 
Surcharges
Please note:
• Dates/months with a * incur a high season surcharge of $75 per person. 
• Dates/months with a ^ incur a high season surcharge of $250 per person.
 

Departure Cities

Sydney, Melbourne, *Brisbane, or *Adelaide.

 
Departure City Surcharges
Brisbane or Adelaide: $500 per person.
 
International Full-Service Airline(s) Used
• Cabin Class: Economy class.
• Airlines: Hainan Airlines, Sichuan Airlines, China Eastern Airlines, China Southern Airlines, Air China, Tianjin Airlines, Capital Airlines, Xiamen Airlines plus any codeshare partners (subject to availability).
Please note: We cannot accommodate one-way flights. Travellers must take all included flights within the package, and any flights intentionally forfeited will result in later flights being subject to cancellation.
 
Missed Flights
If you fail to arrive for your outbound flight, you risk all flight and land arrangements in your destination being automatically cancelled by the airlines and land operator, respectively. Additional fees may apply to reinstate these services. If you miss your flight for whatever reason, please contact us as soon as possible to make arrangements.
 
Preferred Airline Surcharge
Unavailable.
 
Arrive Early in Chengdu
Unavailable.
 
Stay Behind in Yichang
Unavailable.
 
Stopover Packages
Unavailable.
 
Flight Class Upgrades
Business Class: For pricing, please refer to the payment cart at checkout.
Please note:
• Flight upgrades are subject to availability and pricing changes (if we cannot fulfil your request, the upgrade cost will be refunded).
• On any upgrade purchase, short-haul flights and domestic flight sectors are not guaranteed.
 

China Goddess No.2 Ship

China Goddess No.2 cruise ship launched in November 2014 and will come out from a complete refurbishment in March 2024 which will leave it looking and feeling brand new. With the theme “Chinese Civilization, Three Gorges & Goddess Culture”, the cruise is like a moving Three Gorges culture exhibition centre. On the ship, the passengers can enjoy not only the spectacular Three Gorges scenery, but also the culture and stories of the China Goddess.

 
Cabins/Staterooms
Standard Cabin with Private Balcony: 25m2
Includes:
• Private Balcony
• Private Ensuite
 
Public Facilities:
• Restaurant
• Conference Room
• Lounge
• Elevator
• Gym
• Wi-Fi Access in Public Spaces
• Non-Smoking Interior
• Spa & Massage Facilities
• Front View Stand
• Well-Stocked Library
• Cinema Room
• Card Room
• Indoor Swimming Pool
Please note: Cruise timetables are subject to change. Some cruise cabins may have restricted views, based on availability.
 

Accommodation Used

4-Star Properties (Self-Rated)

• Chengdu: Yunhao Holiday Hotel or similar

• Emeishan City: Huasheng Hotel or similar

• Yangtze River Cruise: China Goddess 2 Ship

Please note: Accommodation/rooms offered are based on a lead-in room type and are subject to availability based on seasonality. In the instance a property is not available, a similar standard of accommodation will be provided. Properties will be confirmed and included in your travel pack, which you will receive 4-6 weeks before travel.

 
Extra Nights
Not available at check-out. 
Please note: If you are interested in booking additional nights of accommodation pre or post-tour, please wait until you receive your travel documentation approximately 4-6 weeks before departure for the confirmed list of hotels. If booking your own additional accommodation directly with the hotel, please be aware that you may be required to change rooms at the start/end of your tour.
 
Maximum Room Capacity
2 people.
 
Child Policy
• Valid for people 18 years old and over.
 
Triple Share
Unavailable.
 
Bedding Configuration
Two single or one queen (subject to availability).
 

Minimum group size 20, maximum group size 44 per vehicle.
 
Optional Tours/Activities
Day 2: Sichuan Hot Pot Dinner – 220 RMB
Day 3: Emei Kung Fu Show – 280 RMB
Day 4: Ruocheng Ancient Town & Local Lunch – 290 RMB
Day 6: The Three Gorges Dam – 450 RMB (shore excursion)
Day 7: The Lesser Three Gorges – 450 RMB (shore excursion)
Day 8: Fengdu Xueyu Dong – 450 RMB (shore excursion)
Please note:
• Prices are based per person, are subject to availability, time permitting and weather conditions, and are payable directly to the tour operator in the currency specified.
• Some tours or shore excursions require minimum numbers to operate.
• Shore excursions can be booked whilst onboard (subject to availability).
• Shore excursion programmes and itineraries may vary depending on local conditions and/or any unforeseen events concerning the timing on the day of the tour. Some excursions are very popular, and therefore availability cannot always be guaranteed, it is advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.
 

• Visa fees and requirements.  
• Domestic transfers and flights not stated in the deal offer.
• Meals/beverages not stated in the deal offer.
• Gratuities/tipping - please see more information below.
• Optional activities/tours.
• Personal expenses.
• Travel insurance.
 

TOUR GUIDE VS. TOUR LEADER
Tour Guide
Often locals with intimate knowledge of an area, its culture, and history. Their role entails providing commentary, routing the tour, and seeing that people have a good time. They are a licensed, qualified expert who supplies specific information on the history, art, architecture and culture of the city/village/attraction where they are guiding the tour. The guide meets the group at the required place and leaves it at the end of the tour; they do not travel with the group.
 
Tour Leader
An experienced person tasked with ensuring the smooth operation of tours, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the whole trip. Their role primarily includes assisting with accommodation, transportation between locations, and communication with tour guides at each stop. A tour leader may provide general guidance around a city or village and offer information on the place visited on the bus. However, they are not required to have specific art, architecture, or historical knowledge. They are not allowed to provide a guided tour or commentary of a city/village/attraction once there and, if caught doing so, can be fined. 
Please note: Tour leaders/guides are not a standard inclusion in all travel offers. Tour leaders/guides will only be made available when required to enhance the experience of the destination featured.
 
CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Chengdu
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province in southwestern China, has a humid subtropical climate characterised by distinct seasons:
• Summer (June to August): Warm to hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from around 22°C to 32°C (72°F to 90°F). Rainfall is more common during the summer months.
• Autumn (September to November): Mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). Autumn is generally a pleasant season with lower humidity.
• Winter (December to February): Cool and damp, with temperatures ranging from around 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F). It can be overcast during the winter months, and occasional light snowfall is possible.
• Spring (March to May): Temperatures start to rise, and the weather becomes more pleasant. Spring temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Chengdu is known for its relatively mild and humid climate throughout the year. It experiences more rainfall in the summer, and occasional fog can occur during the winter months.
 
Yichang
Yichang is located in the Hubei Province of central China, along the Yangtze River. The city experiences a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons:
• Summer (June to August): Hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from around 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). July tends to be the warmest month.
• Autumn (September to November): Mild and relatively dry, with temperatures gradually decreasing. Autumn is a comfortable season, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F).
• Winter (December to February): Cool to cold, with temperatures ranging from around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). January is typically the coldest month.
• Spring (March to May): Temperatures start to rise, and the weather becomes more pleasant. Spring temperatures range from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Yichang, being situated along the Yangtze River, can experience some humidity, especially during the summer months.
 
FLIGHTS
Seat Selection & Frequent Flyer Points
We do not arrange seat selection. It is essential to highlight that some airlines do not allow pre-selected seats. We strongly suggest you contact the airline directly with seating allocation requirements and/or arrive at the airport earlier to arrange your seating. While we do not add frequent flyer member details to bookings, you can do this directly with the airline once you have your flight information.
 
Passport Validity
Customers must provide valid passport details either at the time of purchase or no later than 45 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the booking. Customers will be responsible for any costs and fees incurred in this instance.
 
CRUISE
Embarkation / Disembarkation
• Begins approximately 2 hours after docking.
• Due to security reasons, all guests must be on board 2 hours before sailing.
• Itineraries are subject to change at any time without notice.
Please note: Strict Covid-19 terms may also apply regarding proof of insurance covering Covid-19 and/or vaccination. Please refer to the cruise lines’ terms and conditions for further information before boarding.
 
COACH TOUR
Meals
For meals not included, the tour leader (when available) will offer assistance with reservations, suggestions and directions to local restaurants. It is your responsibility to notify us of any dietary requests/requirements. Please note: We will do our best to meet your requests/requirements; however, we cannot guarantee that we will always be able to.
 
Luggage
You will be responsible for all your personal belongings whilst on tour. You must carry your own luggage from the vehicle to the hotel room and back to the vehicle. The driver will assist with the uploading and unloading of bags from the vehicle.
 
OTHER
Mobility
If you require wheelchair access please contact our friendly sales and service team to inquire on your behalf.
 
Fitness Level Required
A leisurely level of fitness will be required. Leisurely is described as light walking, including up multiple stairs, and occasional hiking, may involve uneven surfaces. Able to travel unassisted and get on and off vehicles and small boats. Suitable for most fitness levels and mobility. 
Please note: If you have any concerns, please consult your healthcare provider prior to purchase/travel.
 
Payments & Currency On Tour
Visa/MasterCard/Amex can only be used at some hotels and is not often accepted in local restaurants and supermarkets. Whilst WeChat and Alipay are commonly used payment platforms in China at most businesses, some travellers can experience issues due to internet accessibility and other technical difficulties.
Cash is still widely accepted in China and most people still use cash on a daily basis. Therefore we recommend taking cash in either RMB (local currency) or AUD and the tour guides can assist with currency exchange in China if required. Optional tours and tipping can be paid in RMB or AUD for the land tour and RMB only on the cruise. Credit card and Alipay/WeChat are not accepted.
 
Yellow Fever
A valid international certificate of vaccination against Yellow Fever is required in many countries. You may need to present this on arrival at the airport or border crossing. Some countries will refuse entry if you are unable to present your certificate. It's also common for your home country to request a Yellow Fever certificate upon arrival. You must check with your doctor well before leaving home about the Yellow Fever requirements for the countries you'll be visiting.
 
Gratuities/Tipping
Land: Days 2 -5
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the services of the tour leader (when available) and driver throughout the tour. The highly recommended tip is $12 AUD per person per day. This covers the guide/leader and the driver and will be collected on tour.
Please note: Tipping for services provided is always a matter of personal discretion; however, please be aware that many locals consider tipping part of their normal remuneration, and they may approach you for payment; there's no need to be intimidated by the request.
 
Yangtze Cruise
Gratuities (tips) are not included for the cruise staff's services throughout this tour's cruise component. Gratuities are expected on your cruise and will be charged 150 RMB total for the 4-night cruise. If you have any questions regarding the gratuities on your cruise, please speak to the guest services staff onboard the ship.
 
Sightseeing
Please note: If entry to a site is affected by changes in operating hours or public holiday closures, your itinerary, where possible, may be adjusted, or a similar activity will be offered in its place (subject to availability).
 
Shopping
Shopping overseas can be a daunting and confusing experience, especially when there is a language barrier. Please be very cautious when foreign currencies and prices are involved. If paying by credit card, please pay close attention to the amount you are being charged and keep all your receipts. Do not make any purchases you are not comfortable with or feel pressured into. If you are uncertain or need assistance with the language barrier, please seek assistance from your Tour Guide/Leader. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions regarding shopping for further information.
 

China

A tourist visa for China is a strict requirement if travelling on an Australian Passport. Please note as of today you are required to attend a Chinese Visa Application Service Centre in person to apply for a visa or use a registered agent to apply on your behalf. China Visa Application Service Centres can be found in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane. You must attend the China Visa Application Service Centre relevant to the state you reside in. Please visit https://www.visaforchina.cn/ for more information. You will be able to start your visa application process once you receive your final travel documentation approximately 6 weeks prior to departure.

Important:

• Please start arranging your visa three weeks before departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours.

• Visa rules may have changed since Covid-19. Some countries and airlines may require you to obtain an additional visa before arrival. Please check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering.

Please note:

• Passengers who are not Australian citizens must also check with the respective consulate or visa agency to determine what their visa requirements are and what personal identification is required.

• It is also important to note that some areas of employment, such as journalism, government authorities and charity organisations, may have additional restrictions in applying for visas. This may, in turn, affect the type of application required.

 

Embarking on your next trip is exciting, and while you hope the unexpected does not happen, it is best to be prepared. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance when making your booking. Whether it’s a potential medical emergency, a flight cancellation, a delayed suitcase, or an unforeseen event, it's important to ensure you're adequately protected. For more information or advice visit https://www.tripadeal.com.au/travel-insurance
 

Voluntary Changes

This includes booking changes requested by you, including but not limited to those changes requiring an airline ticket or a Purchase Confirmation reissue.

• Changes - $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.

 
Name Changes Due To Passenger Error
• If the incorrect name has been provided, charges of $100 AUD per booking and any additional charges applied by the airline/cruise company/accommodation/other travel providers.
 
Supplier Fees
In the event the tour package you have purchased is unable to proceed, and/or a travel Supplier is unable to fulfil the tour due to external circumstances (Limitation of Liability e.g. a Force Majeure event), there may be a fee or amount of money that is withheld by our Suppliers and is unrecoverable. This may be due to non-refundable airline tickets, cancellation penalties with cruise cabins or unrecoverable payments with our land/accommodation partners. If refunds are not available from Suppliers, we will endeavour to obtain a travel credit on the best terms available and communicate these outcomes to you. In the event we are unable to obtain a refund or travel service credit, or part thereof, this cost is passed on to the customer as a Supplier Fee.