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AmaWaterways' new AmaDara to join sister ship on the Mekong in August 2015

AmaWaterways' new AmaDara to join sister ship on the Mekong in August 2015
AmaWaterways' AmaDara is scheduled to make its inaugural sailing on the Mekong River Aug. 17, 2015. Like sister vessel AmaLotus, AmaDara will operate 16-day programs to Vietnam and Cambodia.

The trip begins in Vietnam's bustling capital, Hanoi, with sightseeing tours to famous historical spots. At scenic Ha Long Bay, travelers will stay overnight on a contemporary junk.

After a short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, they get three days to tour the ancient temples of Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before beginning their Mekong cruise on the Tonlé Sap Lake. The journey concludes with an overnight stay in Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, followed by two nights in Ho Chi Minh City.  

In Siem Reap travelers will have the chance to visit the Orphans and Disabled Arts Association's Free Village English School. AmaWaterways supports this institution that provides young children free English language instruction and a community center for the village residents.

AmaDara will have elegant French colonial décor, accented by authentic Mekong artifacts and design elements in all air-conditioned cabins and public spaces. Each of the ship's 62 outside staterooms and luxury suites, 226 square feet to 452 square feet, includes a private twin balcony consisting of a French balcony with a second full-sized step-out balcony.

Two restaurants serve Western-style food while keeping with AmaWaterways' regionally inspired dishes offering local flavors like sweet coconut, lemongrass, curries, chili peppers and fresh citrus. Entertainment includes folklore dances, live musical performances, cultural discussion forums and themed dinners.

Other AmaDara amenities are salon and spa services, a sun deck and swimming pool, fitness center and complimentary in-room 'infotainment' system with Internet, music, newly released 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.

Cruise-only pricing for seven days starts at $2,299 per person.  For cruise-only passengers, an optional four-day/three-night pre-cruise stay in Siem Reap 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, exclusive of air, port charges, taxes and fuel surcharges.