Day 1  BEIJING TO YICHANG
This afternoon you will fly to Yichang by Hainan Airlines HU7109 (14:10-16:20). You'll be transferred from the airport to your ship, Viking Century Sky (the most luxurious cruise on the Yangtze River), which is docked close to the Three Gorges Dam. You'll be welcomed aboard by a Western meal, and your ship remains docked overnight. (D)

Day 2 THREE GORGES DAM
After breakfast, you tour the Three Gorges Dam where you learn about this immense enfineering masterpiece and what it means for the Chinese people and the Yangtze. Return to your ship for lunch and scenic cruising through Xiling Gorge, the longest of the Three Gorges.

Day 3 THREE GORGES AND LESSER THREE GORGES
For the next 150 miles, you'll travel the most scenic stretch of the Yangtze as it forces its way through a spectacular series of limestone ridges known as the Three Gorges. During breakfast, cruise through Wu (Witches) Gorge, renowned for its magnificent scenery. Then, board a smaller boat for an excursion through the Lesser Three Gorges. Sail through these remarkable canyons flanked by towering mountains. Along the way you see ancient sites including the hanging coffins of the Ba people and the ancient plank road carved into the cliffside. Enjoy lunch at a scenic stop overlooking the gorges. After, return to your ship and sail through Qutang Gorge, the shortest, narrowest and most spectacular of the three large gorges. Dinner is served aboard. (B,L,D)

Day 4 FENGDU
Cruise through breakfast and enjoy the scenic landscape of the mighty Yangtze River. After lunch, you dock in Fengdu and join an excursion to Snow Jade Cave. Here, you'll visit an underground labyrinth of streams and caverns with brilliant stalagmites. Return to your ship for dinner aboard. (B,L,D)

Day 5 CHONGQING TO BEIJING
After breakfast, check-out the cruise. Your tour guide will meet you in the lobby and escort you to Chongqing airport, fly back to Beijing by Air China CA1420 (11:15-13:35)