Victoria Cruises and Ritz Tours offering a comprehensive 12-day Yangtze Essence program, giving travelers the opportunity to explore the rich history of China.

The 12-day adventure features a luxurious four-day Yangtze River cruise in a private-balcony superior stateroom aboard the recently renovated five-star Victoria Anna. Passengers will discover cultural and scenic gems, including an excursion to the “Ghost City” of Fengdu, an educational tour of the Three Gorges Dam site, and a small boat experience through one of the Yangtze’s tributaries (Goddess Stream, Daning River, or Shennong Stream, based on river conditions).

The comprehensive 12-day program also encompasses the major highlights of Beijing, Xi’an and Shanghai. While in Beijing travelers will visit Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Temple of Heaven and the Great Wall, while the highlight of the Xi’an experience is arguably the Terra Cotta Warriors exhibit. Travelers will also explore the Ming Dynasty City Wall, the most intact city wall in China, and the Big Wild Goose Pagoda in Xi’an. The experience culminates in Shanghai where guests will discover the elegant waterfront of the Bund, City God Temple Bazaar and the peaceful halls of Yu Garden before returning home.

The 12-day program starts at $2,199 per person, based on double occupancy, and includes: all accommodations; 24 meals; comprehensive sightseeing tours; all shore excursions; experienced escorting hosts for groups of 10 or more; expert local city guides and river guides to enhance tour experiences; domestic air transportation in China; and air-conditioned tour coach buses with the service of professional drivers. A single room supplement starts at $700. China visa fees are not included. An early booking discount of $150 per person will be shown during booking.

Ritz Tours, www.RitzTours.com;  Victoria Cruises, www.victoriacruises.com