Does anyone know the current status of the Three Gorges Dam? Is it completed? How will it affect 2008 river cruises? Any information would be helpful, since I am thinking of a trip to China next year and I want to include a river cruise.
Thanks! Sue

Construction of the whole project, which is a huge series of dams and canals and locks, was completed last year. Although a good bit of it is already flooded, I don’t think maximum capacity of the lakes will be reached for a few more years. I have to say that much of this area was heavily polluted when I did this cruise almost 10 years ago, and I know that the situation has only gotten worse in the PRC; I am not sure that this cruise would be that worthwhile given the rise in water levels at this point and the heavy air pollution you will find in many spots. The boats are also not anything to write home about. Although the cruise is heavily promoted by the Chinese government as a tourist destination, I would not put it on my top 10 places to see in the PRC actually. I did it once and would never do it again, but have been back to places like Beijing, Lijiang and Guilin more than once.

My cousin went last month. They'll be back in the US this weekend, and I'll ask them.

Thanks for the feedback. I would love to hear from rkkwan's cousin when they return. I have been told by so many people that this is a wonderful trip and I really think I would like to see China. Any more people out there who have an opinion? thanx

I did the cruise back before the dam started affecting the water level, so can't help with your specific question. (It was magical then.) But there is so much more to see in China that I wouldn't let this affect a decision on whether or not to go there. And if you really want a dramatic gorge, visit Tiger Leaping Gorge in Yunnan province.

Hi, Three Gorges are still very beautiful, but it's not as beautiful as before. The Three Gorges Dam is fantastic, here is a page which introduce the dam, maybe it's useful .

http://www.chinatourmap.com/china/hu...gesproject.htm
Good Luck!