China Cruises

Discover the Wonders of China on a Cruise

China, a land of immense cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, offers an unforgettable cruising experience. From the bustling cities of Shanghai and Hong Kong to the serene beauty of the Yangtze River, there is so much to explore. A cruise in China allows you to witness iconic landmarks, taste remarkable local cuisine, and delve into the rich history that spans thousands of years. Fun fact: China is home to the Great Wall, the longest wall in the world, stretching over 13,000 miles! Whether you’re looking to explore modern metropolises or ancient traditions, a cruise in China caters to all adventurers.

Top Harbours to Visit in China

When cruising through China, make sure to explore these remarkable harbours that offer distinctive experiences:

Popular Ports Visited Before or After Cruising in China

Several ports are typically visited before or after cruising in China, enriching your journey:

Seasonal Insights for Cruising in China

When is the best time to sail to China? Generally, the peak cruise season spans from April to October, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C. This window offers warm weather, ideal for sightseeing and experiencing outdoor festivities. For a less crowded experience, consider cruising in the shoulder seasons of September to November and March to April, where temperatures generally stay between 10°C to 20°C, making it a pleasant time to explore the rich culture and history without the heat.

Cruise Costs Overview for China

What can you expect to pay for cruises to China? A typical 1-week cruise can range from $1,500 to $3,500 for standard packages and $4,500 to $8,000 for luxury experiences. If you’re interested in a 2-week cruise, prices can be approximately $2,800 to $6,000 for regular cruisers and $9,000 or more for luxury options. The best time for affordable cruising tends to be during the shoulder seasons mentioned above, while peak summer months can lead to soaring prices. Local cuisine usually costs between $15 and $40 for a meal, and beverages can range from $5 to $12 depending on where you choose to dine.

Major Cruise Lines to China

• Royal Caribbean Cruises
  With a fleet of 29 ships, Royal Caribbean features four that visit China, including Spectrum of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas. Departures frequently occur from Shanghai or Hong Kong, and Royal Caribbean is renowned for its remarkable onboard activities, including the FlowRider surf simulator, luxurious dining options, and top-notch entertainment.
• Cunard
  Cunard operates a fleet of four ships, with Queen Anne and Queen Mary 2 offering itineraries to China. Domestic departures for this luxurious experience commonly occur from Sydney, while international ports like Southampton and Hong Kong are also frequently visited. Cunard is synonymous with opulent cruising experiences, offering classic ships with elegant interiors, world-class dining, and renowned service.
• Holland America Line
  With an 11-ship fleet, Holland America has one ship, Westerdam, that sails to China. Departures usually take place from Hong Kong or Singapore. Holland America is celebrated for its immersive travel approach, featuring destination-focused itineraries, cultural interactions, and fine dining throughout the journey.
• Norwegian Cruise Line
  NCL operates a fleet of 20 ships, including Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sun, both offering sailings to China. Common departure points include Keelung (Taipei) or Singapore. The cruise line is recognised for its “freestyle” cruising concept, granting flexibility in dining and entertainment for a relaxed onboard experience.
• Princess Cruises
  Princess has a fleet of 17 ships that includes Coral Princess and Diamond Princess offering itineraries to China. Departures typically occur from Sydney or international ports such as Yokohama (Tokyo) and Los Angeles. Famous for its attentive service and diverse onboard activities, Princess encourages guests to create their ideal cruise experience.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania’s fleet comprises 8 ships, with four of them sailing to China, including Riviera and Regatta. Departures often occur from Singapore or Hong Kong. Oceania is celebrated for its gourmet dining options and immersive itineraries, making it an exceptional choice for culinary enthusiasts.
• Viking Ocean Cruises
  With 11 ships, Viking features two vessels visiting China: Viking Orion and Viking Venus. These cruises typically depart from Sydney or international ports such as Hong Kong. Viking is noted for its culturally immersive experiences, small ship intimacy, and all-inclusive pricing, which enhances guests’ understanding of local destinations.
• Silversea
  Silversea operates a fleet of 13 ships, with five offering itineraries to China, including Silver Whisper and Silver Nova. Departures are often from Hong Kong or Tokyo. Silversea is high-end and renowned for its ultra-luxurious offerings, personalised butler service, and onboard amenities to ensure an unforgettable cruise experience.
• Seabourn
  The Seabourn fleet consists of 6 ships, three of which visit China, specifically Seabourn Encore and Seabourn Quest. Departures typically occur from Sydney or Perth and international ports like Hong Kong or Singapore. Seabourn stands out for its intimate sailing experiences, focusing on exceptional service and offering culturally enriching excursions at each destination.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent features six ships, two of which offer China itineraries, including Seven Seas Explorer and Seven Seas Mariner. These journeys often depart from Tokyo or Hong Kong. Regent is celebrated for its all-inclusive luxury experience, ensuring accommodation, dining, and excursions are seamless.

Alternative Regions to Consider for Your Cruise

If China captures your interest, consider these alternative regions for your upcoming cruise:

• Asia: With its array of cultures and diverse landscapes, Asia offers a chance to explore vibrant cities, indulging in delicious street food and visiting historical sites, making it a perfect choice for adventurous travellers.
• Alaska: Known for its stunning natural beauty, Alaska is ideal for those who love outdoor activities and want to witness breathtaking glaciers, wildlife, and incredible scenery while exploring charming coastal towns.
• Caribbean: Famous for its beautiful beaches and clear turquoise waters, cruising through the Caribbean is perfect for sun-seekers looking for relaxation and vibrant island cultures, with plenty of water activities available.
• Australia: For those wanting a taste of down under, cruises to Australia enable you to experience stunning coastlines, unique wildlife, and vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne—an unforgettable mix of adventure and culture!
• South Pacific: This region is known for its stunning lagoons, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural experiences. It offers a more laid-back cruising experience, perfect for those who prefer tranquility and natural beauty.

Embark on an unforgettable journey by booking your cruise to China with CruiseAway today! Filled with rich culture, staggering landscapes, and culinary delights, it’s the perfect destination for any avid cruiser.