Packing & clothing for cruising
Packing Smart
Luggage that is well-packed will help ensure a smooth and comfortable journey. We suggest you pack early and keep a packing list with you, especially if there are any problems with luggage that is temporarily misplaced. For the cruise along Yangtze River, we provide followings for your reference.
For outbound tourists, make certain to have your visa and a valid passport with you in a secure location, otherwise you may be denied boarding the ships. For others, pack valid documents such as the identity card, Residence Certificates for Taiwanese, etc.
Do not forget cameras or film. Since the river excursion is an exciting experience and provides numerous beautiful backgrounds, a water-proof camera is recommended.
Although there are doctors and an infirmary on the ships, an unexpected illness or accident may result in an extra monetary charge. It is therefore a good idea to bring some medications that you can administer on your own for convenience. You should consider bringing medicines for colds, fever and diarrhea and anti-inflammation prescriptions. If you are taking prescription medicines, please ensure you have adequate supplies to cover the duration of your trip.
You may bring with you credit cards or sufficient cash. The 5 / 4 star ships usually provide a foreign currency exchange, including US dollars, Pounds, Euros, etc.
GUNS, DRUGS, and EXPLOSIVES are not allowed as personal imports to China. Penalties are severe.
Climate
For anyone who has decided to take a cruise through the Three Gorges area of the Yangtze River, it is important to get a general knowledge of the climate and weather in order to prepare properly. The Three Gorges region is within the sub-tropical climate area of Central Asia. However, the climate can be greatly affected by the geographic characteristics. The yearly average temperature is 18.4 ? (65.1 ?) with a range from the coldest month in January being 7.1? (44.8 ?) to the hottest month in July being 29.3? (84.7 ?).
Winds in the gorges area are relatively strong with fixed wind directions from either the east or west. Floating mists may also be hovering over the river due to the depth of the gorges and the lack of sunlight on the river. The Three Gorges area features four distinct seasons with distinct four seasons each showing the charm of the gorges in a different perspective. Spring, summer and autumn are the best seasons for a cruise, that is, from March to October. The weather changes dramatically in May and June, and rains frequently appear in July and August. September and October are usually rich with bright sunny days while winter is almost always characterized by continuous rain.
Clothing
There are several suggestions about the clothing for your reference. If you cruise in spring or autumn, you should pack sweater, jackets and protection from heavy winds. It you cruise in summer, besides T-shirts, shorts and sandals, you had better take hat, suntan oil and sunglasses. If you cruise in winter, (although few people do), heavy, warm clothing will be necessary to protect you from the freezing temperatures.
Casual clothes are the recommended for the many strolls involved. Comfortable shoes should be worn. One should also take along some drinking water. Because of the changeable weather in the Three Gorges region, umbrella and water-proof clothes are necessary. Luxury ships usually hold a Welcome Show as well as a Farwell Party, and formal clothing may be expected.