Pollution is a problem in almost all of China, merely thicker in some places than others, but that includes industrial areas along the Yangzi River. Of itself it isn't a reason not to visit China, or indeed to take the cruise (other reasons for not making that cruise part of a brief visit to China have been offered). On water as opposed to air pollution, you might find this interesting:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/new...icle669908.ece

The comments on fumes were not mine, and the experience of them would vary according to the vessel chosen.

Peter N-H

My friends who just returned from China said not to waste your time on the Yangtze River cruise. I've heard this from others too.

I took a 4 day Yangtze River cruise in Nov. I had no problem with pollution or fumes, but found that 4 days on the ship was too much down time for me. The scenery was pretty, and the three land excursions were interesting, but 4 days was too much time spent on the ship for me.

If you have enough time in China, why not take the Yangtze cruise? It is a nice experience. However, if your time is limited, it will not be a big problem to skip it.