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Kampong Chhnang

Riches of the Mekong - Cruise Only

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard MS Amadara
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Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh aboard the MS Amadara. Sail along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam, where time slows, and the countryside unfolds in a tapestry of tradition and tranquility. Explore charming rural villages, bustling markets, and a serene monastery, where monks will bestow a special Buddhist blessing. Enjoy Cambodia’s rich history at the Royal Palace and National Museum in Phnom Penh, and witness master artisans crafting intricate handicrafts and local delicacies. Experience the region’s authentic culture firsthand with unique rides by oxcart, tuk-tuk, and trishaw. This unforgettable journey unveils the Mekong’s vibrant life along its storied shores.
Typical countryside house in VietnamVietnamese street vendorsSunsets of Southeast AsiaWoman on a boat in VietnamPhnom PenhKampong Chhnang
Highlights
  • Explore Angkor Ban village, Cambodia, preserving traditional wooden stilt houses
  • Sail to Oknhatey, Silk Island, and discover silk-weaving heritage
  • Tour Phnom Penh, visiting Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and museums
  • Discover Oudong, Cambodia’s royal capital, with a Buddhist blessing ceremony
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Siem Reap | Kampong Cham, Cambodia | Embark

Transfer via motorcoach from Siem Reap to Kampong Cham and board the AmaDara for your seven-night cruise. In the evening, gather with fellow guests for a warm Welcome Dinner.

*All cruise only guests should meet the team at Sofitel Angkor hotel in Siem Reap at 8:00 am on Embarkation day to join the transfer to the ship in Kampong Cham. It is recommended that you fly into Siem Reap at least one day prior to embarkation; please inquire about important arrival arrangements prior to your cruise.

Day 2: Angkor Ban | Oknhatey

In the morning, take a guided walking tour of Angkor Ban, one of Cambodia's few villages untouched by the Khmer Rouge. Here, locals continue their traditional way of life in wooden stilt houses shaded by banana trees, surrounded by the rhythms of daily farming. Later, sail to Oknhatey, or "Silk Island," along the lush Mekong River. Discover the island's renowned silk-weaving heritage, visit a local elementary school, and witness artisans preserving this centuries-old craft. Your ship will dock overnight in Oknhatey village.

*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.

Day 3: Phnom Penh

Your cruise continues to sail to Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia. This morning’s excursion takes you to the highlights of Phnom Penh, followed by a visit to the Royal Palace, the spectacular Silver Pagoda, and the National Museum, which has an outstanding collection of Khmer crafts. Alternatively, you may wish to shop for unique treasures at the bustling, yellow-colored Central Market after you visit the Royal Palace. In the afternoon, prepare for a moving visit to Cambodia’s infamous Killing Fields and the Khmer Rouge’s grim Tuol Sleng S21 detention center (Genocide Museum). After returning to the ship, enjoy Khmer folk dancing performed by local children in the Saigon Lounge.

Day 4: Phnom Penh | Oudong

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. 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, or continue your visit to Wat Phnom, a famous landmark of Phnom Penh.

Day 5: Border Crossing | Tan Chau, Vietnam

Spend the day cruising the Mekong River as your ship crosses the border into Vietnam. 

Day 6: Tan Chau | Sa Dec

Enjoy visiting Tan Chau, a small town on the Mekong River 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 and 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. Board a traditional sampan boat and glide through this diverse ecosystem that includes more than 70 species of birds, including the painted stork and oriental darter, and 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. Later in the day, cruise to Sa Dec.

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

Day 7: Sa Dec | 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 Cao Dai Temple, home to the unique religion of Caodaism in Southern Vietnam. It is a fusion of Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Confucianism. You can 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 Old House and cap the day off with a festive Farewell Dinner on board.

Day 8: Disembark | My Tho | Ho Chi Minh City

  • 1 Breakfast
Your cruise concludes in My Tho Port, where you disembark and transfer from My Tho Port to Ho Chi Minh City via motorcoach.

*All guests will be transferred from the ship to Sofitel Saigon Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City. It is recommended that you schedule your onward flight to depart Ho Chi Minh after 2:30 pm today to avoid potential missed connections.

Ship/Hotel

MS Amadara

Amadara-Sundeck Pool
Amadara-Foklore Entertainment
AmaDara chef's table

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

    <Mar 2025>
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    Available departures
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    Per person starting at
    $2,709
    AmaDara standard stateroom
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    Cat.C
    Tonle Deck French & Outside Balcony, 226 sq. ft.
    AmaDara standard stateroom
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    Cat.B
    Sadec, Saigon & Tonle Deck French & Outside Balcony, 226 sq. ft.
    AmaDara standard stateroom
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    Cat.A
    Saigon Deck French & Outside Balcony, 226 sq. ft.
    AmaDara Suite Stateroom
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    Suite
    Sadec Deck French & Outside Balcony, 334 sq. ft.
    AmaDara luxury suite
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    Luxury Suite
    Sadec Deck French & Outside Balcony, 452 sq. ft.

    Notes

    Single supplement is 50%, except for Suites which are 100%.
    Included
    • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
    • 7 Nights Accommodations
    • Accommodations as listed
    • Ground transportation as listed
    • Activities as listed
    • Meals as listed
    • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
    • Port Fees
    • Onboard Entertainment 
    • Bottled water replenished daily
    • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
    • Beverages: Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
    • Beverages: Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
    • Personal headset for excursions. 
    • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
    • Knowledgeable guides
    • Internet and Wi-Fi access
    • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
    Excluded
    • Gratuities
    • Travel Insurance
    • Personal Expenses
    • Flight costs (please request a quote)
    • Additional excursions during free time
    • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
    • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
    • Laundry 

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