AmaWaterways today announced details of its newest custom-designed vessel, AmaDara, which will enhance the line's Vietnam, Cambodia & The Riches of The Mekong program in 2015. AmaDara is slated to make its anticipated debut with an inaugural sailing August 17, 2015 and will join its sister ship AmaLotus in offering incredible 16-day river cruises on the fabled Mekong in 2015 and 2016. Both ships sail as part of the AmaVoyages program, an extension of AmaWaterways' core product line that delivers the highest standards available for travel in remote, undiscovered destinations.
"AmaWaterways continues to meet traveler demand for more river cruise options by expanding our fleet of custom-built ships in some of the world's most sought-after destinations," said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of AmaWaterways. "The new AmaDara will be a welcome addition to our family, as we enhance our offerings of unforgettable journeys on the magnificent Mekong River."
AmaWaterways' Mekong River itineraries begin in Vietnam's bustling capital, Hanoi, with sightseeing tours including visits to the city's most famous historical spots. Then, a scenic ride to the breathtaking Ha Long Bay will include boarding a contemporary junk for a once-in-a-lifetime overnight experience. Travelers will enjoy a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia to experience the ancient Khmer empire and mingle with the warm, friendly Cambodian people. Travelers will also embark upon a three-day adventure, touring the ancient temples of Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before beginning their Mekong cruise on the Tonle Sap Lake. The epic journey will conclude with an overnight stay in Phnom Phen, the capital of Cambodia, followed by two nights in Ho Chi Minh City.
As part of this impressive itinerary, visitors touring the Angkor Archaeological Park will have the chance to visit the Oprhans and Disabled Arts Association's (ODA) Free Village English School in Siem Reap, Cambodia. A proud sponsor of ODA, AmaWaterways supports this institution in offering young children free English language instruction and providing a safe, comfortable community center for the village's residents.
Complimenting this unforgettable, immersive itinerary and experience is the ship itself.
The sister ship of AmaLotus, AmaDara will feature the most innovative ship design in the river cruise industry. Elegant French Colonial décor will be accented by authentic Mekong artifacts and design elements in all air-conditioned cabins and public spaces. Each of the ship's 62 extra-spacious outside staterooms and luxury suites - the largest on the Mekong at 226-452 square feet - includes a private "Twin Balcony," consisting of a French Balcony with a second full-sized step-out balcony. Two elegant, stylish restaurants serve Western-style cuisine while keeping with AmaWaterways' passion for regionally inspired dishes, boasting an infusion of local flavors like sweet coconut, lemongrass, curries, chili peppers and fresh citrus. Entertainment abounds with special folklore dances, live musical performances, cultural discussion forums, themed dinners and more.
Travelers choosing AmaWaterways for their voyage along the Mekong, "The Mother of Water," will have access to incredible amenities onboard AmaDara, including salon and spa services, a refreshing sun deck and swimming pool, fitness center and complimentary in-room "Infotainment" system with Internet, music, popular new release movies and English-language television programming. Complimentary unlimited wine is available with lunch and dinner; complimentary house spirits, local beer, soft drinks and bottled water are available all day every day, and complimentary bottled water is provided daily in all staterooms.
"At AmaWaterways, one of our core philosophies is to focus on building the most innovative ships on the market. With AmaDara, travelers will see the benefits of this innovation in the form of authentic Southeast Asian touches, the comforts of home like air-conditioning and Wi-Fi, and the largest cabins on the Mekong," said Karst. "When you see AmaDara in port, there is a clear distinction in design and décor and we are excited to see the reaction of our guests!"
Cruise only pricing for a seven-day sailing onboard AmaDara or AmaLotus on the Mekong River starts at $2,299 per person. For cruise only passengers, an optional four-day/three-night pre-cruise stay in Siem Reap, Cambodia is available, starting at $799 per person including luxury hotel accommodations, daily breakfast and guided sightseeing tours. Pricing for the full 16-day land and cruise itinerary starts at $4,498 per person.*
