China


China

Introduction »
Where we go »
What's included: A Cultural Feast »
Cruising on the Yangtze »
Click here to see our selection of tours in China »


Introduction

At the best of times, travelling in China can be a daunting experience. However, our team of highly experienced Tour Escorts and English-speaking Local Guides and will be your gateway into Chinese culture with the knowledge that only having a local on tour can bring.

Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this mystifying and intriguing country full of iconic attractions such as the Great Wall and the Terracotta Warriors. And, with your expert Local Guide close at hand, learn more about China's extensive history and many cultural traditions first hand. Under their guidance, you will also discover the best places to shop for unique artworks and antiques and the opportunity to sample local delicacies and regional delights in every destination.


Where we go

Imperial Beijing and the Great Wall of China

Beijing has served as the capital of the Chinese empire for the past 1000 years - from Kublai Khan to the dynasties of the Chinese emperors and today's People's Republic. Home to a staggering 13 million people, its historical treasures are unparalleled. Centered around the spectacular Imperial Palace or 'Forbidden City', the streets of the old city are arranged according to ancient feng shui principles. A short distance to the north of Beijing lies the magnificent Great Wall of China, built to protect the kingdom from invaders and stretching for over 6000 km, this is truly an amazing feat of architecture.

Cosmopolitan Shanghai

Referred to as 'Paris of the East' during colonial times, Shanghai today models itself to outshine and outgrow Hong Kong as China's economic powerhouse. Shanghai has been an important trading port for centuries and is growing at an amazing pace. Its distinct skyline is dominated by the Oriental Pearl TV tower, whereas the old waterfront area known as the 'Bund' still features the grand colonial buildings. Your hotel is conveniently located on Nanjing Road, China's No. 1 shopping destination.

Ancient Xi'an and Terracotta Warriors

The old imperial capital Xi'an rose to greatness during the Tang Dynasty in the 7th to 9th centuries. The main drawcard attracting tourists to Xi'an today are the Terracotta Warriors, an army of over 7000 lifesize statues of soldiers and horses, created to accompany the first Chinese emperor in the afterlife. The statues are arranged in typical battle formation, with each soldier bearing different facial expressions. Many of the figures have been excavated and are exhibited in a unique vault.

Guilin and Li River Cruise

Guilin is famous for the stunning landscapes surrounding it - unique caves and steep hills rising dramatically from the verdant vegetation. Take a cruise along the tranquil Li River from Guilin to Yangshuo and marvel at the stunning limestone karst peaks and witness a life far removed from China's bustling cities, with water buffalos on the river banks and farmers tending to rice fields. After your cruise discover the local market at Yangshuo.

Hong Kong

Enchanting Hong Kong is a mix of eastern and western culture. From colourful street markets to serene temples, sumptuous cuisine to glitzy buildings of commerce, Hong Kong hardly ever stops to take a breath. Enjoy panoramic views from Victoria Peak, visit Repulse Bay and Aberdeen's lively marina crammed with junks, sampans and cruisers. It's a great place to end your China holiday, especially on a farewell dinner harbour cruise revealing the fantastically lit skyline.


What's included: A Cultural Feast

Take an in-depth discovery of China's treasures with our Signature Experiences. From the secrets of ancient dynasties long past, to a rich collection of cultural highlights and traditions as well as the staggering feats of modern progress, your trip into the heart of China promises a once in a lifetime glimpse into a fascinating culture.

Unique Cultural Highlights

In Beijing, sit down to a feast of Peking Duck at the famous Quanjude Roast Duck Restaurant. Travel to a section of the Great Wall of China in Badaling, pay your respects to the 13 Ming Emperors at the Changling Tombs and see traditional Jade carving at a factory.

In Shanghai, experience the contrast of old and new as you visit the ultra-modern Shanghai Art Museum and the Yu Garden. Here, you will also visit the village of Zhujiajiao and take a boat ride on its network of canals and bridges that date back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties.

Cruise the Li River and visit Yangshou's famous West Street and its local markets. Journey to beautiful Guilin and the Reed Flute Cave - a legendary site from Chinese literature. Travel to Lhasa, the capital of Tibet and the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama. Here, you'll visit the Barkhor Bazaar and visit Lhasa's many temples including the Sera Monastery, where you may observe monks as they debate Buddhist doctrines in the courtyard. In Hangzhou, see the famous show of 'Impression West Lake' by Zhang Yi Mou. Explore the city on a tour that includes Park of Flower Harbour, Pagoda of Six Harmony and a stop at a local tea plantation for a tea ceremony.

Cultural Cruising Experiences

On your Victoria Cruises' luxury Yangtze River cruise, enjoy the opportunity to further experience Chinese culture. You'll be given the chance to learn Tai Chi Chuan. Daily practice of this form of Tai Chi promotes mental clarity and a healthy body. It is offered in the early morning to help you begin your day in a wonderfully relaxed way.

While a guest on board either the Victoria Anna or Victoria Jenna, you can attend lectures on Chinese history and culture which add insight and depth to your cruise experience. Topics include the evolution of the Three Gorges Dam project and its importance to China as well as talk about Chinese medicine, Chines language and poetry by many of the famous Chinese sages.

Bring your camera when the crew presents some of China's most elaborate fashions, dating back hundreds of years to the Han Dynasty. See a variety of traditional costumes from all regions of China that reflect the country's cultural diversity.


Cruising the Yangtze River

River cruising in China with Victoria Cruises is an experience to remember. See a never-ending panorama of spectacular scenery as you sail past the magnificent sights of the Yangtze River. Enhanced by outstanding service and fine cuisine, your time one a Victoria Cruises' vessel promises to be a highlight of your China holiday.

Facilities Aboard

  • Private Balconies on every cabin
  • Full Ensuite Bathrooms
  • World-Class Restaurants
  • Sauna and Well-equipped Gym
  • Internet Stations
  • A peaceful Reading Room
  • Massage and Beauty Salon services
  • Elevators between decks
  • Attentive English-speaking staff
  • A Health Clinic
  • Monye Exchange Services
  • Fully air-conditioned

The Luxurious Victoria Anna

The Victoria Anna is a truly luxurious river cruising vessel. Its facilities include a stylish main dining room and two elevators, a three-story atrium lobby, two lounges, three bars, a gym, lecture room, library, beauty salon, massage room and gift shop. All cabins have private balconies and access to HBO and CNN broadcasts.

Victoria Jenna - Brand New in 2009!

The Victoria Jenna will be added to Victoria Cruises' five-star fleet in 2009. At a length of over 133 metres, featuring five passenger decks and staffed by a crew of 179, it will be the largest and most luxurious ship cruising the Yangtze River. All of the cabins on the Victoria Jenna will have private balconies and access to HBO and CNN broadcasts. Other facilities will include a beauty salon, fitness centre, business centre, lecture room and a theatre-style night club.

A la Carte Dining

Both of these superb ships offer the option of enjoying ˆ la carte dining, in addition to the other superb on-board cuisine on offer. We have included a meal in the on-board ˆ la carte restaurant at our expense to get you into the holiday mood on your cruise of a lifetime!

Deck Plans

click to download (.pdf)

Cabin Plans

click to download (.pdf)

Technical Data - Victoria Anna

  • Built: 2006
  • Length: 106 m
  • Crew: 138
  • Passengers: 308
  • Decks: 6
  • Cabins: 153

CHYC13 Imperial China »
Discover the best of China on this 13 Day journey from the historic former Imperial capital of Beijing to the cosmopolitan streets of Shanghai.

CHYC17 Imperial China and Hong Kong »
Discover the wonders of China and Hong Kong on this 17 Day odyssey.

CHYC15 China Highlights »
Enjoy a thorough exploration of China on this 15 Day tour, travelling from historic Beijing to the bustling streets of Shanghai.

CHYC19 China Highlights and Hong Kong »
YouÕll begin this 19 Day journey with a thorough exploration of BeijingÕs attractions, before embarking on a luxurious four night cruise along the Yangtze River.

CHYCL15 Roof of the World - China & Tibet »
Journey to the roof of the world on this 15 Day adventure into the heart of China.

CHYCL19 Roof of the World and Hong Kong »
Discover the contrasting worlds of Lhasa and Hong Kong on this 19 day journey.