There are some holidays that you dream about for years and for me sailing along the Mekong was one of those holidays.
With excitement at maximum, Mr B and I boarded AmaDara, our home for the week whilst sailing along the Mekong.
This was our first river cruise with AmaWaterways, but having heard and read many positive things about them we had no hesitation about our sailing. We were both confident we had chosen the right cruise company to enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime holiday with.
Built in Vietnam in 2015, when sailing at full capacity AmaDara holds 124 passengers. We wouldn’t have known that she was built in 2015 as for us she didn’t show any age or wear. She is a beautiful vessel and we loved the French Colonial décor and beautiful wood which adorned the ship. For me it made the ship feel authentic to the region and a true reflection of sailing on the Mekong.
We stayed in a category A stateroom and at 251sq ft felt much more spacious than our European river cruise staterooms. Our room had a wardrobe with plenty of hanging space and shelves. It was also home to a safe and hanging in the wardrobe were lightweight bathrobes and slippers.
The bathroom had a spacious shower with glass door. Toiletries provided were shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion which were replenished throughout our sailing.
In our room there was a seating area, perfect for watching the world go by from the comfort of our suite, and the much-needed great air conditioning.
The writing desk had a phone and our very important audio boxes which we took on all our included tours and just popped back on charge after each day. The flat screen TV had a selection of movies, however, we didn’t even switch it on during our trip.
The lovely queen size bed gave us a very good night’s sleep each evening. Every night returning back to our stateroom, waiting for us on our bed was the next day’s full itinerary along with a little local treat. We loved the sweet sesame crackers!
Our balcony, whilst small, had two chairs and a small table. It was perfect for enjoying the magical views which always awaited us on the Mekong.
Head to the top deck and you will find the pool, perfect for a refreshing dip and to cool off.
There are plenty of sun loungers and seating on the top deck. We and our fellow guests could often be found enjoying a relaxing hour or so. There is also a bar on the top deck so you never have to worry about quenching your thirst!
When not off on a tour, Mr B and I enjoyed heading to the deck to take in the views, perhaps read a book and take the opportunity to relax (gin and tonic optional!).
Back onto deck 2 and as well as staterooms you will also find the Chef’s Table, the ship’s specialty restaurant where all guests can dine once during their sailing for free of charge.
Deck 2 is also home to reception which is manned 24/7. The lovely reception team, no matter what time of day, would always have a smile on their faces and be happy to see you. I don’t think there is one question they won’t have the answer to!
There is also a small shop onboard selling souvenirs and a small selection of toiletries. We couldn’t resist purchasing one of the AmaDara bread baskets which appear on your table every lunch and dinner.
Most importantly, on deck 2, you will find the Saigon Lounge. Here, all briefings are held, guests meet before excursions, evening entertainment is held and it is home to the bar onboard.
When it comes to drinks, you can enjoy complimentary wine with lunch and dinner. The crew are always keeping your glass topped up and we never had an empty wine glass at meal times! Local beers and spirits are included throughout the cruise so can be enjoyed before, during and after mealtimes.
Whilst Mr B often enjoyed one of the cold refreshing beers (Saigon was his favourite), I liked to opt for a gin and tonic or a vodka and cranberry juice. But also, when getting back from an excursion Mr B and I often made our way straight to the bar and enjoyed an ice-cold Sprite, perfect after spending a few hours in the humidity.
The evening entertainment varied which Mr B and I enjoyed. Our amazing cruise director Young hosted a quiz one evening and a games night on another.
Some of the outside entertainment we enjoyed in the evenings were a local dance performance and a traditional band, and songs.
But the highlight of all the entertainment for us was the crew talent show. It had us in stitches. I will just say the housekeeping team were the winners for me!
When there was no fixed entertainment onboard, we loved our evenings relaxing in the bar talking about our wonderful day’s exploring in Cambodia and Vietnam and listening to the resident talented pianist John.
Head down to the bottom deck and you will find the Mekong Restaurant. The restaurant team are simply wonderful, always asking about your day and how you were and most importantly, making sure you were happy with the food. We found the mix of both regional and western menus onboard an absolute delight. More to come on the food on AmaDara in a separate blog post!
The ship is also home to a small salon and spa. Whilst Mr B and I didn’t use this I spoke to a fellow guest who very much enjoyed a full body massage. There is also a small fitness room onboard.
Mr B and I loved sailing on AmaDara. She is a beautiful ship, authentic to the Mekong and was an absolute pleasure to sail on. What made AmaDara extra special? The incredible crew onboard. Every single one of them made our holiday special one way or another. It was a delight to meet them and enjoy our sailing with them.
Read my next blog post to see our 7 night itinerary, the places we got to visit and the special and unique experiences we had . . .
Read about all the food we enjoyed on our cruise on the Mekong . . .
https://www.amawaterways.co.uk/ships/amadara-river-cruise-ship
