River Cruise on the Mekong – BD125
River Cruise on the Mekong - BD125
Come and cruise along the Mekong River and discover Cambodia and Vietnam as you are transported to lands steeped in custom, where the rhythms of life move at a slower pace and where you will get a fascinating glimpse into a traditional way of life.
Visit rural villages, colorful markets and a monastery, where you will receive a special Buddhist blessing by monks. Delve into the peaks and valleys of Cambodia’s history in the Royal Palace and National Museums of its beautiful capital, Phnom Penh. Watch skilled artisans create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies, and be treated to authentic experiences, including rides via oxcart, tut tut and trishaw. On this transformative journey, the Mekong truly reveals a vibrant colorful world along its shores.
COUNTRIES:
WATERWAYS:
7 NIGHT CRUISE
On this Mekong River cruise you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, including special workshops, special interest tours and cultural experiences.
Itinerary ~ River Cruise on the Mekong
NOTE: All cruise only guests should meet us at Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap at 8:00 am on Embarkation day to join the transfer to the ship in Kampong Cham. We recommend that you fly into Siem Reap at least one day prior to embarkation; please inquire about important arrival arrangements prior to your cruise.
River Cruise - Day 1
SIEM REAP – KAMPONG CHAM, CAMBODIA – EMBARKATION
Transfer via motorcoach from Siem Reap to the AmaDara in Kampong Cham for your seven-night cruise.
Your afternoon excursion takes you to the Twin Mountains, known as Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei (male and female mountains). In the annals of Khmer legend, the twin mountains were formed as the result of a competition between the men and women of an ancient Cambodian kingdom to resolve which gender would be responsible for wedding proposals. As the story goes, the women lit a fire at night, which made the men believe the sun was rising. As a result, the men stopped working and the women won the competition. Thus, men still need to ask the women's parents for permission and Phnom Srei is higher than Phnom Pros.
Later, join fellow guests for an evening Welcome Dinner. (L,D)
River Cruise - Day 2
ANGKOR BAN - OKNHATAY
During the morning, go on a walking tour to Angkor Ban, one of the few villages in Cambodia that was not destroyed under the Khmer Rouge regime in the 1970s. Here people still live in their traditional wooden abodes and keep their old cultural traditions alive. Hundreds of wooden houses stand intact on stilts, shaded with banana trees, among the hustle and bustle of the daily agricultural life of the local villagers.
After visiting here, the ship sails to Oknhatey or “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River. This island is known for its rich tradition of silk weaving. While here, you’ll visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving that have been preserved for centuries. Your ship moors in Oknhatey village. (B,L,D)
*Based on seasonality, the port of Angkor Ban may be inaccessible from August - September. During this time, Wat Hanchey will replace Angkor Ban as the port of call.
River Cruise - Day 3
OUDONG - KAMPONG TRALACH - PHNOM PENH
Your cruise continues to sail to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.
The morning excursion takes you to Oudong, Cambodia’s former royal capital from the early 17th century until 1866. Today, Oudong is a place of pilgrimage for Cambodians. While here, be treated to a memorable Buddhist Blessing Ceremony at a monastery.
After visiting Oudong, be treated to a truly authentic excursion, an oxcart ride through a local village Kampong Tralach.
Later in the day, experience Phnom Penh via a tuk tuk ride and be enchanted by the city's French Colonial architecture and tree-lined boulevards set amidst monumental Angkorian architecture.
After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by local children in the Saigon Lounge. (B,L,D)
River Cruise - Day 4
PHNOM PENH
This morning’s excursion takes you to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum).
Alternatively, you may wish to shop for unique treasures at the bustling yellow-colored Central Market.
After lunch on board, you’ll explore the highlights of the city, followed by a visit to the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts. (B,L,D)
River Cruise - Day 5
PHNOM PENH – BORDER CROSSING – TAN CHAU, VIETNAM
Spend the day discovering the riches of the Mekong River as your ship crosses the border into Vietnam. (B,L,D)
River Cruise - Day 6
TAN CHAU – SA DEC
Visit Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town unspoiled by tourism. You will have the opportunity to enjoy an authentic experience via a traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) ride around the town, with stops at silk-making and rattan mat workshops, followed by a boat ride through the narrow channels of the Mekong River to “Evergreen Island.”
Alternatively, take a boat ride to Evergreen Island and return to Tan Chau, where you will visit a rattan mat workshop.
Later in the day, cruise to Sa Dec. (B,L,D)
River Cruise - Day 7
SA DEC - XEO QUYT - CAI BE
Once ashore in Sa Dec, tour the town where French writer Marguerite Duras spent many years in her youth.
Visit a colorful local market and the 19th-century house of Mr. Huynh Thuy Le, Duras’ Chinese paramour, on whom her prize-winning novel “The Lover” is said to be based.
Later, board a motorcoach for Xeo Quyt, once used as a military base during the French war and now an important ecological site. You will have an opportunity to visit candy and rice paper making workshops, and the historic Kiet Old House.
In Cai Be, cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board. (B,L,D)
River Cruise - Day 8
HO CHI MINH CITY - DISEMBARKATION
Your cruise concludes in My Tho Port, where you’ll disembark and transfer via motorcoach from My Tho Port to Ho Chi Minh city. (B)
*Guests booking cruise only will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Saigon Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City. We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Ho Chi Minh after 2:30 pm today to avoid potential missed connections.
Land Extentions
Optional Land Extensions
- A - Pre Cruise: 2 nights Hanoi, 1 night Ha Long Bay , 3 nights Siem Reap; Post Cruse: 2 nights Ho Chi Minh
- B - Pre Cruise: 3 nights Siem Reap
- C - Post Cruise: 2 Ho Chi Minh
Land Extension Pre-Cruise - Day 1
HANOI - HOTEL CHECK IN
To begin your River Cruise on the Mekong - Riches of the Mekong, arrive in Hanoi and transfer to the hotel and check in. Enjoy a free day to get to know the capital of Vietnam. You will find ancient temples to French colonial architecture and modern skyscrapers. Combined with beautiful parks and lakes, Hanoi is a beautiful city.
Check in is 6 Days before the River Cruise Embarkation.
Land Extension Pre-Cruise - Day 2
HANOI
Discover some of Hanoi’s most famous historic and cultural sites on your guided tour that includes: Ba Dinh Square and The Temple of Literature.
You’ll also visit the infamous prison that American POWs sarcastically dubbed the “Hanoi Hilton” during the Vietnam War.
Take an authentic rickshaw ride, known as “cyclo,” in Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, and then enjoy a traditional water puppet show. (B)
Land Extension Pre-Cruise - Day 3
HANOI - HA LONG BAY
Ethereal Ha Long Bay is considered by many to be the Eighth Natural Wonder of the World. Board an elegantly appointed ship designed with all the modern conveniences to ensure smooth sailing for an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience. The backdrop of the bay’s magnificent scenery and dramatic limestone cliffs and rock formations provide you with the perfect setting for a memorable sojourn. (B,L,D)
Land Extension Pre-Cruise - Day 4
HA LONG BAY - HANOI - SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA
Spend the morning sailing across the emerald waters of Ha Long Bay with more than 2,000 small islands rising from the water like a dragon’s back.
Later in the morning, disembark the ship and transfer to Hanoi Airport for a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, the gateway to Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the Khmer empire. (B,L)
Land Extension Pre-Cruise - Day 5
SIEM REAP - ANGKOR
Begin your morning exploration of the Angkor temple complex at Angkor Thom, meaning “the great city." This is home to Bayon Temple, best known for its gigantic smiling stone faces, as well as the Terrace of the Elephants and the Terrace of the Leper King.
You’ll then visit nearby Ta Prohm, known as the “Kingdom of Trees,” for the way in which the temple stones have become intertwined with thick forest vegetation over the centuries.
Afternoon excursions take you to the fascinating jewel in the crown of Angkorian art, Banteay Srei, meaning “Citadel of Women,” as it has been said that the carving is too fine to have been done by the hand of man. Cap this memorable day off with a special “Apsara Dance Show” at your hotel, featuring local Cambodian/Khmer folk dancers. (B,D)
Land Extension Pre-Cruise - Day 6
SIEM REAP - ANGKOR
Discover the heart and soul of Cambodia and the most iconic of all Angkorian Temples, Angkor Wat. This is one of the largest religious monuments ever constructed and a true masterpiece of Khmer architecture built by King Suryavarman II in the early 12th century to honor the Hindu god, Vishnu. (B,D)
Land Extension Post-Cruise - Day 15
HO CHI MINH CITY
Visit Chu Chi Tunnels, an immense underground network built during the Vietnam War.
Spend your afternoon at leisure exploring more of Ho Chi Minh City. (B)
Land Extension Post-Cruise - Day 16
DEPART HO CHI MINH CITY
Bid farewell to Vietnam and your river cruise on the Mekong, as you prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
Pricing ~ River Cruise on the Mekong
2021
2022/2023
| Embark Date | Start City | Ship Name | Cruise | Land Extension A | Land Extension B | Land Extension C | Discount |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug-09-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 2,399 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1500 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land |
| Aug-23-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 2,499 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1500 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land |
| Sep-06-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 2,699 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1500 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land |
| Sep-20-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 2,899 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1500 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land |
| Oct-04-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,099 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1000 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land |
| Oct-18-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,099 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1000 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land. Solo Traveler Offer. |
| Nov-01-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,099 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1000 per Stateroom. Solo Traveler Offer |
| Nov-15-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,099 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1000 per Stateroom |
| Nov-29-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,099 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | |
| Dec-13-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,099 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1000 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land. Solo Traveler Offer. |
| Dec-27-2021 | Kampong Cham | AmaDara | 3,199 | 2,299 | 799 | 399 | Save $1000 per Stateroom. 2 for 1 Land. Solo Traveler Offer. |
Scroll right for more dates
Promotions
- Save $1000 per stateroom select dates apply
- Save $1500 per stateroom select dates apply
- 2 for 1 land: 2-for-1 land pricing available on select pre/post-cruise land programs in lieu of retail savings
- Solo Traveler Offer: Take advantage of our 10% Single Supplement offer on Fixed Window Staterooms OR 25% Single Supplement offer on Balcony Staterooms in lieu of other savings. Exclusions apply.
Cabin Upgrades
| Cabin Upgrade | Sq. ft. | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Suite Sadec Deck French & Outside Balcony | 502 | 2,899 |
| Luxury Suite Sadec Deck French & Outside Balcony | 366 | 1,499 |
| Category A Saigon Deck French & Outside Balcony | 251 | 999 |
| Category B Sadec, Saigon & Tonle Deck French & Outside Balcony | 251 | 699 |
| Category C Tonle Deck French & Outside Balcony | 251 | - |
Notes
- Price Per Person in USD
- Dates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.
- Port Charges not included in cruise price$196 per person.
- Intra-Asia Air (Hanoi - Siem Reap) Additional $360 per person including taxes and fuel surcharges.
- Single Supplement Cruise:
- Category C 25% of twin price; Category B, A and Suite 50% of twin price; Luxury Suite 100% of twin price.
- Single Supplement for Land $1,099 per person.
- A visa is required for travel to Vietnam and Cambodia. Passengers with a cruise and land itinerary must obtain a multiple entry visa for Vietnam (as there are two different points of entry into the country) and a single entry visa for Cambodia. Please consult with your Consulate for more information.
- Siem Reap Embarkation Day: Transfer from Siem Reap to the ship via motor coach to Kampong Cham, a small village on the Mekong River.
- Ho Chi Minh City Disembarkation at My Tho Port and transfer via motor coach to Ho Chi Minh City.
- Phnom Penh: No bare shoulders or shorts for ladies during the Royal Palace visit.
Blue Danube Holidays are authorized AmaWaterways distributors
Features
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
- 7 nights luxury accommodation in a twin-balcony stateroom
- Flat-panel screen that features in-house movies
- Desk and sitting area
- Bottled water replenished daily
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
- Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Knowledgeable guides
- Personal headset for easy exploration
- Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
- Sun deck with pool
- Fitness room and three spas
- Saigon Lounge with panoramic views and bar
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AWARD-WINNING DINING
- All onboard dining in a variety of venues
- Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
- The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
- Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
- Unlimited wine with lunch and dinner
- Complimentary local beer, house-brand spirits and soft drinks during cruise
- Snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
Gallery
See the Ship ~ River Cruise on the Mekong
AmaDara
AmaDara features spacious staterooms and suites all of which have private twin balconies. Public areas include two stylish restaurants, an inviting lounge, a fitness room, hair salon, three spas and a refreshing Sun Deck swimming pool.
