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This distinctive ship is in a class of her own! AmaWaterways’ sole cruise ship on the Mekong River, the AmaDara features French Colonial décor and richly carved wood furniture inspired by the history of the region, as well as local artifacts made by native craftsmen. Air-conditioned interior corridors lead to spacious staterooms and suites, most featuring twin balconies that invite the ever-changing scenery of Southeast Asia inside. On board, the AmaDara caters to your every whim, with massage rooms, fitness room, gift shop, hair salon and sun-deck pool. Her stunning Saigon Lounge provides respite by day and unites guests over intriguing local entertainment by night. Savor authentic regional delicacies and Western cuisine in the Main Restaurant or dine at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant; and throughout your cruise, be treated to unlimited complimentary wine with lunch and dinner, as well as house brand spirits, local beer and soft drinks throughout your cruise.
Our cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia was one of the most enriching travel experiences we’ve had. The hospitality, thoughtful service, and deep cultural immersion truly stood out. The ship was beautifully maintained, and our stateroom was spacious with a comfortable bed, plenty of storage, and a balcony perfect for watching daily life along the Mekong. The crew was exceptional and genuinely seemed to enjoy their work. Cruise manager AK was outstanding, keeping everything running smoothly while adding humor and personality to the daily briefings. Dining was consistently excellent, blending Western favorites with regional dishes. The excursions were the true highlight. Visits to villages, markets, temples, and family-run workshops offered meaningful insight into everyday life along the river. Local guides were knowledgeable and engaging, explaining the region’s history and culture with depth and clarity. The pace was manageable with options for different activity levels. The ship’s relaxed, friendly atmosphere made it easy to connect with fellow travelers.
This was our first cruise of any sort, river or ocean. AmaWaterways was very thoughtful about, everything. There were plenty of activities to chose from. We were well informed of schedules and requirements (eg modest clothing for temple visits) or disembarkation procedures. I particularly like the evening 'background' briefings that provided history and geography lessons on the countries being visited. They gave context to the tours. The food was good with lots of local and "American/European" choices to select from. The crew, whether dining, activity, housekeeping, or boatmen could not have been more friendly and helpful. While well appointed, I think it time for re-fresh of the AmaDara. It is dated in its decor. All in all, a wonderful trip. --- End of review.
This itinerary is much different than most other river cruises. There are many rural towns and villages on the cruise itself. Also the scenery along the way is somewhat remote, but extremely beautiful. The Asian fruits, especially in Vietnam, are out-of-this-world. I highly encourage everyone to add the pre cruise extension in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), mid cruise in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, and post cruise in Hanoi with Ha Long Bay. Some of the highlights of this cruise are the temples at Angkor, especially Angkor Wat. Another is the overnight on Ha Long Bay (if Hanoi is added). Both of these are world heritage sites. If you are not yet adjusted to the time difference, I highly encourage you to awaken early enough to take the pre-dawn excursion to Angkor Wat. Another highlight for me was the visit to the local school in Oudong where I brought along a number of school supplies for the teachers to distribute. My recommendations for shopping are these: Tan Chau for silk. Avoid the excursion for shopping in Ho Chi Minh City. Shop for clothing and shoes in Hanoi. I enjoyed Pub Street at night in Siem Reap for local flavor. Much more touristy than Phnom Penh and rocking at night. I suggest about $50 per person in new one dollar bills for tipping. Cambodia loves dollars, and ATMs even dispense dollars, although probably not ones. Vietnam discourages dollars. The exchange rate was about 26,500 dong to $1. Be careful to double check prices in Vietnam since some places delete the last three digits of the price. As an example when quoted 260 it means 260,000. My impression was that Cambodia was more capitalistic, although Vietnam is changing.
We absolutely loved our Charms of the Mekong cruise! We did the pre-land portion in Ho Chi Minh City, stayed at the beautiful Sofitel Saigon Plaza for 2 nights, 7 nights on the AmaDara, amazing ship, wonderful crew, and our cruise director Tung was amazing too! We then went to Siem Reap, 2 nights at the Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa(probably one of the most beautiful hotels and grounds we have ever seen!!) We also did the post land package to Hanoi and Ha Long Bay! The icing on the cake! The Sofitel Metropole Hanoi, beautiful historic hotel and then one night on the Paradise Elegance in Ha Long Bay, one of the most beautiful places on earth!! Tung, our cruise director, the crew, our waiters, waitresses, and the local guides in each place and country made this trip a trip of a lifetime!! This is my 3rd Amawaterways cruise and we can’t wait to book the next one!! Amawaterways is top of the line! THE BEST!! Thank you!
Staterooms and suites feature twin balconies, both a French and outside balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish. Additional stateroom amenities include a cosy sitting area, climate-controlled air conditioning, in-room safe and mini bar. Spacious bathrooms have a shower, bathrobe, slippers and hair dryer. Suites have additional enhanced amenities with a large sitting area and bathrooms with both a shower and separate tub.
Savor regionally inspired cuisine as well as traditional favorites at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table.
AmaWaterways takes great pride in crafting enticing shore excursions and pre- and post-cruise city tours with personable local guides. Their tours are designed to delve into the heart of each destination, visiting must-see landmarks as well as out of the way gems. Guests are allocated one of the state-of-the-art personal audio devices, which make it easy to hear every word of their guide’s lively commentary. Whether it’s part of a land program itinerary or a small group shore excursion, your AmaWaterways vacation will include a multitude of experiences that are entertaining, enriching and available exclusively to their guests.
Meet fellow travellers in Saigon Lounge, enjoy a drink at the bar or soak in the passing scenery. The ship features convenient interior access as well as air conditioning in hallways, restaurants and lounges.
As you sail through Vietnam and Cambodia’s most beautiful and tranquil scenery, why not take the opportunity to pamper yourself? They have an expert hair stylist, masseuse and beauty therapist at your disposal for the duration of the cruise. Pamper your body and rejuvenate your spirit while you’re on board with AmaWaterways.
Please note: there are no dedicated kids or teens facilities onboard the AmaDara.
