AmaWaterways is adding more flexibility and choice for clients interested in Mekong river cruising. In 2018, guests will be able to select seven-night sailings upstream or downstream on the Mekong River onboard the AmaDara, along with extension options via pre- or post-cruise land packages.
Those sailing on the Charms of the Mekong cruise can arrange a 15-night cruise and land program that includes two nights in Ho Chi Minh City, a seven-night cruise, two nights in Siem Reap, three nights in Hanoi and one night in Ha Long Bay.
Those sailing downstream from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City on the Riches of the Mekong itinerary can also build a 15-night cruise and land program. The main difference between the two 15-night options is that the Riches of Mekong package includes three nights in Siem Reap, while the Charms of the Mekong package stays three nights in Hanoi.
Both cruises have identical 10-night options, which include three nights in Siem Reap, and a seven-night Mekong river cruise.
The itineraries share an emphasis on authentic cultural encounters, with shore excursions that include a rice paper- and candy-making workshop in Cai Be, Vietnam; a visit to a Buddhist monastery; a stop at the royal palace in Phnom Penh; and a full-day exploration of Vietnam’s Xeo Quyt, a lush forest lined with floating water hyacinths that also conceals the remains of Viet Cong bunkers.
“We are pleased to offer our guests more opportunities to experience the unique authenticity of the Mekong and the villages that line the riverbanks,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. “By combining the cruise with pre- and post-cruise land programs in Siem Reap, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, our guests have the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into the culture and history of this fascinating region.”
In addition, Ama has scheduled its first wine cruise in Asia on the March 26 departure of Riches of the Mekong. It will be hosted by Sbragia Family Vineyards from the California Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, known especially for its rich cabernets and chardonnays. The sailing will include onboard wine lectures and tastings as an added facet to the shore excursions.
The 124-passenger AmaDara mixes French Colonial decor and authentic Mekong artifacts and accents. Each stateroom has twin balconies, and there is a spa, a sundeck pool and a fitness room. In addition to the main dining room, The Chef’s Table restaurant serves a fusion menu developed by executive chef Primus Perchtold.
The Details
AmaWaterways
www.amawaterways.com
