Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer (Uniworld River Cruises): Review, Specs and Cruises

At a glance

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer is an intimate-size cruise ship operated by Uniworld River Cruises, in service since 2008. It carries 124 guests and 124 crew (1.0 guests per crew member) at 6,733 gross tons. It is the 12th largest of 17 Uniworld River Cruises ships by guest capacity.

Builder's plate

Specs

Guests: 124
Crew: 124
Gross tons: 6,733
Decks: 6
Length: 300 ft
Beam: 52 ft
Maiden voyage: 2008
Refurbished: 2017
Space ratio: 1.0; Gross tons per guest
Guests per crew: 1.0
Speed (mph): 18

Bliss scores

What Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer is best at

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Our review

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer: Exploring China's fabled Yangtze River

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer introduces a new standard of cruising in China — an intimate and luxurious experience, with the ship carrying just 124 passengers, compared to the 300-plus accommodated on other cruise ships. Aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, the number of crew members match the number of passengers, resulting in the most personalized service on the river.

Recently refurbished, the elegant Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer sets the bar for luxury river cruising in China, with three- and four-night cruises between Chongqing and Yichang. The most celebrated stretch of the Yangtze is the spectacular Three Gorges region. Highlights include the mountainous region of Fuling, where fascinating touring options include the secret 815 Underground Project and the White Crane Ridge Underwater Museum.

The crystal-clear waters and forested slopes of Shennong Stream are experienced during a ride in a traditional sampan. Qutang Gorge is famous for its rolling waters and dramatic cliffs, while Wu is characterized by majestic forest-crowned peaks. Xiling, the longest, finishes at the vast Three Gorges Dam with a tour of the site and exhibition center. Friendly and intimate on board service creates an atmosphere more resembling a private club than a cruise ship.

Who will like sailing on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer

Travelers who enjoy exploring Eastern culture and scenic landscapes in an intimate, upscale setting would enjoy a trip aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer, chartered by Uniworld River Cruises.

Where Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer sails

Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer offers sailings on the Yangtze between Chongqing and Yichang, China. However, Uniworld not resumed itineraries while China still contends with coronavirus outbreaks.

Read the full review

What's included

Uniworld's river cruises are all-inclusive. Aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer you'll receive:

All three meals during full sailing days and breakfast on day of disembarkation
Beverages with meals including house wine, local beer, soft drinks and water
Entrance fees as part of scheduled sightseeing
Pre-arranged entertainment and on-board activities

Staterooms

The ship offers 38 cabins, 24 suites and four themed suites over four decks — the most luxuriously appointed staterooms on the Yangtze River. Each has floor-to-ceiling picture windows, a private balcony and en suite bathroom.

Cabins are the largest entry level of their kind on the Yangtze River. Stylish, and with their own private balconies, each is fully equipped with satellite TV, electronic safe, minibar and fridge.

Suites have an indoor seating area and a private balcony with table and chairs. They’re spacious enough to accommodate a third person, and they include a free laundry service as well as access to the suite lounge for unlimited drinks and snacks.

Activities

Complementing the natural beauty of the river is a rich program of shore excursions and shipboard activities that highlight the richness of China’s cultural traditions as well as the river’s history and ecology. Tai Chi classes, Chinese cooking and silk embroidery are just some of the diversions available. In between activities, the Huang Ding Spa beckons. There’s also a fitness center, sauna and beauty salon.

Interested in a cruise on this ship?

For pricing, itinerary information and to reserve your spot on this ship, contact a Cruiseable travel consultant by email or by calling 1-877-322-3773.

Photos

Inside and out

Dining 3

Enjoy fine dining during your sailing through China on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.
Enjoy afternoon tea during your sailing through China on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.
Enjoy complimentary tea service during your sailing through China on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.

On board 2

Learn calligraphy and other ancient arts during a sailing in China on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.
Learn calligraphy during a sailing in China aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.

Staterooms 3

A look at the luxurious bathroom in the guest rooms aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.
$Relax in style during your explorations along China\xe2\x80\x99s stories Yangzi River on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.$
Relax in style during your explorations along China\xe2\x80\x99s stories Yangzi River on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.
$Relax in style during your explorations along China\xe2\x80\x99s stories Yangzi River on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.$
Relax in style during your explorations along China\xe2\x80\x99s stories Yangzi River on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.

More photos 2

Soak up Chinese culture and beautiful landscapes on your sailing through China on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.
$Explore the scenic gorges of China\xe2\x80\x99s Yangzi River aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.$
Explore the scenic gorges of China\xe2\x80\x99s Yangzi River aboard Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer.

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Cruises on Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer

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