Charms of the Mekong

7 Nights • AmaWaterways

From £4,688pp | Departs from Ho Chi Minh City

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Charms of the Mekong

Offer Highlights

  • AmaWaterways
  • Ho Chi Minh City
  • Included
  • River Cruise
  • AmaDara
  • luxury
  • Asia, Mekong
  • Vietnam, Cambodia
  • 8 days / 7 nights

Lively Ho Chi Minh City, once known as the “Pearl of the Orient,” offers a vibrant mix of old and new and provides the perfect start to your incredible journey through Vietnam and Cambodia. Cruise along the mighty Mekong, discovering a glimpse into another era; one where people still happily honor the timeless traditions passed down through the centuries from their ancestors. Throughout your trip, immerse yourself into the culture and heritage with visits to rural villages, historic pagodas and colorful markets. Be treated to a special blessing by monks in Buddhist monastery, and witness skilled artisans who create exquisite handicrafts and delicacies. Experience all this and more on this life-enriching cruise along the Mekong.

Ho Chi Minh City and My Tho

Romantically referred to by the French as the Pearl of the Orient, Ho Chi Minh City today is a super-charged city of sensory overload. Motorbikes zoom day and night along the wide boulevards, through the narrow back alleys and past vendors pushing handcarts hawking goods of all descriptions. Still called Saigon by most residents, this is Vietnam's largest city and the engine driving the country's current economic resurgence, but despite its frenetic pace, it's a friendlier place than Hanoi and locals will tell you the food—simple, tasty, and incorporating many fresh herbs—is infinitely better than in the capital.This is a city full of surprises. The madness of the city's traffic—witness the oddball things that are transported on the back of motorcycles—is countered by tranquil pagodas, peaceful parks, quirky coffee shops, and whole neighborhoods hidden down tiny alleyways, although some of these quiet spots can be difficult to track down. Life in Ho Chi Minh City is lived in public: on the back of motorcycles, on the sidewalks, and in the parks. Even when its residents are at home, they're still on display. With many living rooms opening onto the street, grandmothers napping, babies being rocked, and food being prepared, are all in full view of passersby.Icons of the past endure in the midst of the city’s headlong rush into capitalism. The Hotel Continental, immortalized in Graham Greene's The Quiet American, continues to stand on the corner of old Indochina's most famous thoroughfare, the rue Catinat, known to American G.I.s during the Vietnam War as Tu Do (Freedom) Street and renamed Dong Khoi (Uprising) Street by the Communists. The city still has its ornate opera house and its old French city hall, the Hôtel de Ville. The broad colonial boulevards leading to the Saigon River and the gracious stucco villas are other remnants of the French colonial presence. Grisly reminders of the more recent past can be seen at the city's war-related museums. Residents, however, prefer to look forward rather than back and are often perplexed by tourists' fascination with a war that ended 40 years ago.The Chinese influence on the country is still very much in evidence in the Cholon district, the city's Chinatown, but the modern office towers and international hotels that mark the skyline symbolize Vietnam's fixation on the future.

Cái Bè and Sa Déc

CAI BE – SA DEC. Take a local boat to Cai Be. You will have an opportunity to visit candy and rice paper making workshops, or you may also choose to add an active walking tour to the historic Kiet House followed by a visit to candy and rice paper workshops. Later in the day, journey to Sa Dec, a sprawling town on the Mekong Delta, where French writer Marguerite Duras spent part of her youth. You will visit the colorful market, Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Confucianism. (B,L,D)

Tân Châu and Border Crossing

TAN CHAU – BORDER CROSSING. Enjoy a visit to Tan Chau, a small Mekong River town unspoiled by tourism. Be treated to an authentic experience on a traditional “xe-loi” (trishaw) ride around the town, with stops at silk-making and rattan mat workshops. You may also choose the trishaw ride with visits to craftsmen’s workshops, followed by an active walking tour to “Evergreen Island.” As a third alternative, explore the stunning Mekong Delta on an intimate tour through Vietnam's Tra Su Forest and Sanctuary. This region thrives in lush greenery encompassing majestic cajuput trees, lotuses, water lilies and a carpet of bright green moss in the rainy season that appears to glow as you gently drift through it. Glide by sampan through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter.* Later in the day, cruise from Vietnam to the Cambodian border en route to Phnom Penh. (B,L,D)

*Please Note: Tra Su Forest visit is capacity controlled.

Phnom Penh

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market.

Oudong and Phnom Penh

OUDONG – KAMPONG TRALACH – PHNOM PENH. Visit 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. You may walk around Oudong’s monastery or take an active walking tour to see panoramic views of the Oudong plain. 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. (B,L,D)

Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s busy capital, sits at the junction of the Mekong and Tonlé Sap rivers. It was a hub for both the Khmer Empire and French colonialists. On its walkable riverfront, lined with parks, restaurants and bars, are the ornate Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum, displaying artifacts from around the country. At the city’s heart is the massive, art deco Central Market.

Oknha Tey Village

OKNHATEY - ANGKOR BAN. In the morning, set sail for Oknhatey Village. Oknhatey is the “Silk Island,” located on the lush banks of the Mekong River and known for its rich tradition of silk weaving. While here, you will visit a local elementary school and observe the traditional silk weaving, an art that has been preserved for centuries. Your cruise continues to sail to Angkor Ban. (B,L,D)

Angkor Ban and Kampong Cham

ANGKOR BAN – KAMPONG CHAM. Go on a walking tour of 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 on-going of the local villagers. After visiting here, the ship sets sail for Kampong Cham, where you will go on an afternoon excursion to Wat Nokor, perhaps the most treasured monument within the ancient complex of Banteay Prey Nokor. Fusing the Old-World with the “new,” this centuries-old temple now boasts a contemporary pagoda within its walls, delighting guests with colorful depictions of the Buddha’s life. Alternatively, visit the Twin Mountains, known as Phnom Pros and Phnom Srei (the male and female mountains). Cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Kampong Cham and Siem Reap

DISEMBARKATION – KAMPONG CHAM – SIEM REAP. Your cruise concludes in Kampong Cham, where you disembark and motorcoach transfer to Siem Reap. (B)

*Guests booking cruise only will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap. We recommend that you schedule your onward flight to depart Siem Reap after 4:00pm today to avoid potential missed connections.

AmaDara

AmaDara

Sailing the Mekong River, AmaDara’s design blends local artistry and French colonial influences. Spacious twin-balcony rooms and the lively Saigon Lounge create an inviting setting for experiencing Southeast Asia.

AmaDara sails exclusively on the Mekong River, offering an intimate experience with just 124 guests on board. The ship’s design blends French colonial elegance with Southeast Asian artistry, creating a setting that reflects the character of the region. All staterooms and suites feature twin balconies — both a step-out and a French balcony — so the sights and sounds of the Mekong are always close at hand. Evenings often bring the ship to life in the Saigon Lounge, where guests gather for cultural performances and conversation. With spacious accommodations, a Sun Deck pool, and attentive service, AmaDara offers a distinctive and welcoming way to explore Vietnam and Cambodia.

Luxury Suites
Luxury Suites
Suite

Spacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...

502 sq ft Max 2 guests
King or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Shower Bath Toiletries Provided Room Service Available +8 more
Suites
Suites
Suite

Spacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...

366 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Shower Bath Toiletries Provided Room Service Available +8 more
Cat A. Staterooms
Cat A. Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

251 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Shower Bath Room Service Available TV +6 more
Cat B. Staterooms
Cat B. Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin ba...

251 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Shower Toiletries Provided Room Service Available TV +6 more
Cat C. Staterooms
Cat C. Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

251 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Shower Toiletries Provided Room Service Available TV Free Wi-Fi +5 more

AmaDara has two dining venues: the Mekong Restaurant, serving elegant cuisine inspired by the regions along the river, and The Chef’s Table, offering a multi-course tasting menu in an intimate setting. Guests can also enjoy drinks and light bites in the Saigon Lounge, a welcoming space for gathering with fellow travelers. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs are happily accommodated.

Mekong Restaurant
Mekong Restaurant
Complimentary

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local...

The Chef's Table Restaurant
The Chef's Table Restaurant
Complimentary

Enjoy an intimate, multi-course dinner where culinary artistry shines at The Chef’s Table, available on select sailings....

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.

Saigon Lounge
Saigon Lounge
Lounge

Meet fellow travellers in Saigon Lounge, enjoy a drink at the bar or soak in the passing scenery. Th...

Onboard Entertainment
Onboard Entertainment
Lounge Theatre

Onboard Performances and Musical EveningsThroughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into...

AmaDara has a fitness room, a hair and nail salon, and two massage rooms, along with a Sun Deck pool that overlooks the Mekong River. These spaces offer a balance of activity and relaxation, perfect for unwinding after a day exploring temples, local villages, and more.

Fitness Room
Fitness Room
Gym

Are you looking for a way to stay fit on holiday? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruis...

Sun Deck and Pool
Sun Deck and Pool
Pool Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

Find calm in beautifully designed areas made for rest and reflection, whether it’s a quiet lounge, t...

Spa
Spa
Spa

Rejuvenate body and spirit with soothing spa and massage treatments, offering the perfect balance of...

Fitness Classes
Fitness Classes
Exercise Class

Start the day with intention through gentle stretching, yoga, or quiet moments on deck, surrounded b...

Sadec Sun Deck
Sadec Sun Deck
  • Sun Deck
  • Pool
  • Sadec Spa
  • Fitness Room
  • Category B Staterooms
  • Suites
  • Luxury Suites
Saigon Upper Deck
Saigon Upper Deck

  • Saigon Lounge
  • Reception
  • Boutique
  • Saigon Spa
  • The Chef's Table
  • Cat A Staterooms
  • Cat B Staterooms
  • Cat C Staterooms

Tonle Main Deck
Tonle Main Deck

  • Mekong Restaurant
  • Cat B Staterooms 
  • Cat C Staterooms 

Choose your cabin

AmaDara Ho Chi Minh City → Siem Reap 10 Jan 2028 – 17 Jan 2028 Available
From £4,688 pp
Flights included. Prices include flights and transfers — everything's covered, so you can book online.
Balcony

French or outside balcony with river views

3 options

from £4,688 pp
Suite

Spacious suite with premium extras

2 options

from £6,169 pp

65 dates available

Date Ship Balcony Suite
05 Oct 2026 AmaDara £4,571 £5,110 View
19 Oct 2026 AmaDara £4,541 View
02 Nov 2026 AmaDara £4,772 View
30 Nov 2026 AmaDara £5,386 £5,925 View
14 Dec 2026 AmaDara £4,918 £5,687 View
28 Dec 2026 AmaDara £5,179 £6,948 View
08 Mar 2027 AmaDara £5,010 View
15 Mar 2027 AmaMaya £5,547 £6,317 View
22 Mar 2027 AmaDara £4,779 £5,779 View
29 Mar 2027 AmaMaya £5,240 £6,010 View
05 Apr 2027 AmaDara £4,250 £5,250 View
12 Apr 2027 AmaMaya £4,548 £5,548 View
19 Apr 2027 AmaDara £5,086 £5,856 View
02 Aug 2027 AmaMaya £4,021 £5,021 View
09 Aug 2027 AmaDara £3,898 £4,898 View
16 Aug 2027 AmaMaya £4,350 £5,350 View
30 Aug 2027 AmaMaya £4,129 £5,129 View
06 Sep 2027 AmaDara £3,568 £5,106 View
13 Sep 2027 AmaMaya £3,645 £5,183 View
20 Sep 2027 AmaDara £3,722 £5,260 View
27 Sep 2027 AmaMaya £3,683 £4,683 View
04 Oct 2027 AmaDara £3,974 £5,512 View
18 Oct 2027 AmaDara £4,174 £5,712 View
01 Nov 2027 AmaDara £4,426 £5,964 View
15 Nov 2027 AmaDara £4,589 £5,589 View
22 Nov 2027 AmaMaya £4,051 £5,589 View
29 Nov 2027 AmaDara £4,051 £5,589 View
06 Dec 2027 AmaMaya £4,351 £5,889 View
13 Dec 2027 AmaDara £4,714 £5,714 View
20 Dec 2027 AmaMaya £4,551 £6,089 View
27 Dec 2027 AmaDara £4,176 £5,714 View
03 Jan 2028 AmaMaya £5,206 £6,169 View
10 Jan 2028 AmaDara £4,688 £6,169 Viewing
24 Jan 2028 AmaDara £4,688 £6,169 View
31 Jan 2028 AmaMaya £5,206 £6,169 View
07 Feb 2028 AmaDara £4,388 £5,869 View
14 Feb 2028 AmaMaya £4,388 £5,869 View
21 Feb 2028 AmaDara £4,388 £5,869 View
28 Feb 2028 AmaMaya £4,906 £5,869 View
06 Mar 2028 AmaDara £4,388 £5,869 View
13 Mar 2028 AmaMaya £4,906 £5,869 View
20 Mar 2028 AmaDara £4,388 £5,869 View
03 Apr 2028 AmaDara £4,758 £5,721 View
10 Apr 2028 AmaMaya £4,092 £5,573 View
17 Apr 2028 AmaDara £3,944 £5,425 View
14 Aug 2028 AmaDara £3,337 £4,966 View
21 Aug 2028 AmaMaya £3,411 £5,040 View
28 Aug 2028 AmaDara £3,485 £5,114 View
04 Sep 2028 AmaMaya £3,259 £4,888 View
11 Sep 2028 AmaDara £3,333 £4,962 View
18 Sep 2028 AmaMaya £3,407 £5,036 View
25 Sep 2028 AmaDara £3,481 £5,110 View
02 Oct 2028 AmaMaya £4,130 £5,759 View
09 Oct 2028 AmaDara £4,204 £5,833 View
16 Oct 2028 AmaMaya £4,204 £5,833 View
23 Oct 2028 AmaDara £4,204 £5,833 View
30 Oct 2028 AmaMaya £4,579 £6,208 View
06 Nov 2028 AmaDara £4,204 £5,833 View
13 Nov 2028 AmaMaya £4,204 £5,833 View
20 Nov 2028 AmaDara £4,204 £5,833 View
27 Nov 2028 AmaMaya £4,204 £5,833 View
04 Dec 2028 AmaDara £4,504 £6,133 View
11 Dec 2028 AmaMaya £4,504 £6,133 View
18 Dec 2028 AmaDara £4,504 £6,133 View
25 Dec 2028 AmaMaya £4,504 £6,133 View
From £4,688 per person

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