Online Check-In

AmaWaterways’ online Cruise Check-In process is intended for the convenience of our valued guests. We require that each step of your Cruise Check-In is completed to board our ships. To complete, visit our website at www.amawaterways.com/welcome-check-in. In addition to providing the information required for embarkation, the Cruise Check-In process:

• Ensures your personal information, as it appears on your passport, is correct
• Provides us with an emergency contact in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Allows you to pre-register for all your shore excursions (does not apply to Egypt or Africa cruises)

IMPORTANT: Mekong River Cruise Checklist

Print out this handy checklist to ensure you stay on top of important dates for completing your Cruise Check-In, as well as vital details about applying for your Vietnam visa. This document also includes handy contact information should your Vietnam visa include any errors.

US Guests: Click here for your Mekong River Cruise Checklist (USD)

Canadian Guests: Click here for your Mekong River Cruise Checklist (CAD)

What to Pack

Your Essential Mekong River Cruise Packing Guide

It is always advisable to travel light in Southeast Asia, so “if in doubt, leave it out.” Vietnam and Cambodia are tropical countries with hot and humid weather. Bring lightweight easy-care clothing that includes some long-sleeved items for protection from mosquitoes and sun, raingear, and sturdy and comfortable walking shoes that you won’t mind getting wet or muddy. You might also pack a few casually elegant items to wear at the Welcome and Farewell dinners.

Other recommended items:

• Shorts and/or long cotton pants
• T-shirts and long-sleeved cotton shirt
• Sweater, sweatshirt, or warm wrap for chilly nights
• Bathing suit, cover-up and flip flop
• Small flashlight
• Camera equipment and extra batteries, chargers/accessories
• Converter and electrical adapter (220v)
• Travel-sized deodorant, toothpaste, disinfectant wipes, insect repellent, etc.
• Prescription medications in original containers (to be packed in carry-on bag, not checked luggage)
• Small first aid kit with aspirin, antibacterial cream, etc .
• Feminine products and cosmetics
• Hat with brim, sunscreen, lip balm, sunglasses
• Money belt or other secure place to keep passport and cash
• Day pack large enough to hold camera, binoculars, etc
• Photocopies of your passport and other important documents

Please note: Hanoi and Ha Long Bay can sometimes reach colder temperatures during the Fall and Winter seasons, make sure to bring extra layers.

Religious Site Visits
When visiting religious sites, we kindly ask guests to be respectful of the local culture and its customs. Shoulders and knees should be covered, and some sites may require you to remove your shoes upon entry. Shoes that can be easily slipped on and off are useful during these excursions

Carry-On Luggage
Prepare your carry-on luggage with the necessary essentials. Our suggestions for what to pack:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb or hair brush, razor, feminine products and cosmetics
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Hand sanitizer, tissues and antibacterial wipes
• Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
• Basic first aid kit: medications for upset stomach, prescriptions, aspirin, antiseptic cream, cold medicine, vitamins and bandages
• Prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses
• Converters, adapters, chargers and power cords
• Personal ear buds or headphones to use with our Quietvox commentary systems during shore excursions
• Travel umbrella
• Camera and extra memory cards
• Smart phone
• Proof of vaccination or negative PCR test, if required

Important: Pack a sufficient supply (including two weeks beyond your planned return) of any medications you are taking, copies of the prescriptions and the telephone/fax numbers of your doctor. Some countries require prescription drugs be carried in their original container with the label clearly visible.

For Your Travels

Tips for Long Flights

• Wear loose-fitting clothing and comfortable shoes.
• Based on current airline regulations in place, you may be required to wear a medical grade mask (or N95/KN95) so you may want to have several with you in order to change during the flight.
• Avoid caffeine, alcohol and carbonated drinks and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Alleviate ear pressure by chewing gum, yawning, swallowing or gently blowing your nose.
• Periodically walk up and down the aisle to stretch your legs and get blood circulating. You can also do a few isometric exercises while seated.
• Try to sleep during your overnight flight – an eye mask, noise cancelling headphones and a light sweater or scarf may help you to be more comfortable and sleep so you can acclimate to the local time more quickly.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during your flight, as recirculated cabin air tends to dry them out.

TSA Secure Flight Program
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) requires all passengers to provide Secure Flight passenger data when reserving airline travel. This includes your full name, date of birth and gender as it appears on non-expired government-issued travel documents (e.g., passport, re-entry permit, alien registration card, “green card,” photo ID, etc.). Any missing or incorrect information can cause unnecessary delays at the airport. If you reserved your airline tickets through AmaWaterways and have not yet provided us with this Secure Flight passenger data, please contact our office as soon as possible at 800-626-0126 or 818-428-6198 (if dialing from outside of the U.S.). Please refer to your local transportation authorities for more information.

Airport Security and Check-in
Please arrive at least three hours before international flights and at two hours before domestic flights this will allow ample time to check-in and get through Customs and TSA security check points.

Late or Missed Flights
If you miss a flight, immediately advise an airline representative that you are a cruise guest bound for a specific location/date/time to meet your ship. If your flight is cancelled, await instructions from the airline regarding alternate travel arrangements and contact your travel advisor for assistance. Typically, airlines will do everything in their power to get you on the next available flight. Once you know your new flight information, please call the emergency contact number listed within our Contact Information section and your electronic Travel Documents.

Travel Protection Insurance
We strongly recommend you purchase travel protection insurance that includes coverage related to Covid-19. If you purchased travel protection insurance, please make sure to write down important information such as the insurance company’s telephone number and your policy number.

For the most up-to-date vaccination and Travel Insurances requirements at port of entry, please visit:

• Vietnam National Administration of Tourism at https://vietnam.travel/node/1336
• Embassy of Cambodia in USA at https://www.embassyofcambodiadc.org/arrival-procedure.html
• Tourism administration of Thailand at https://www.tourismthailand.org/home

Baggage
International air carriers are often very strict about the size and weight of baggage and carry-on luggage. Please contact your air carrier or visit its website for specific requirements prior to your departure, as size and weight limitations vary according to the airlines. It is also important to check Intra Asia Air flight regulations as these too may vary. Passengers on international flights are usually allowed one piece of checked luggage and one carry-on bag per person. Some airlines limit each checked bag to a maximum of 62 linear inches (158 linear cm) and weight do not exceed 50 lbs. (23 kg). Your carry-on should not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (55 x 35 x 22 cm) or weigh more than 15 lbs. (7kg). International air carriers may impose fees for baggage that is too large or heavy and/or require you to remove certain articles in order to meet weight restrictions. Current security regulations require that all liquid items in your carry-on bag be no larger than 3 oz. and contained in a clear quart-sized plastic bag.

Intra-Asia Luggage Restrictions (Applies to all flights within Southeast Asia)

• One Checked-in baggage must not exceed 50lbs/23kg in weight and to a maximum of 62inches (158 cm)
• One Carry-on baggage must not exceed 15lbs/7kg. in weight and to a maximum of 45 inches(115cm) plus one small item, such as Ladies purse or a small handbag must fit under the seat in front of you.

*An extra fee will apply for overweight and/or each additional piece of checked in luggage. Fees to be paid by guests directly to Vietnam airlines counter at Hanoi or Siem Reap airport.

NOTE: Airlines may impose fees for excess baggage and/or require you to remove articles and place them in another bag if weight/size limits are exceeded. AmaWaterways is not responsible for any additional fees imposed by airlines. Also, storage space may be limited on board your ship and/or motorcoaches/ tender boats, and porters may refuse to carry heavy, oversized suitcases. For these reasons, we recommend bringing only one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person.

It is a good idea to place your itinerary and contact information inside your checked bag, just in case it goes temporarily astray.

Mobile Phones
Please contact your service provider for information on overseas usage. Your phone will need to be set up for international roaming.

Health & Well-Being

Vaccines & Medications

All North American residents should consult the latest vaccine recommendations issued by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Visit www.cdc.gov or call 1-800-232-4636 (toll free in the U.S.). Residents of other countries should contact the appropriate government agency in their home country to determine what, if any, vaccinations are recommended.

Depending on your health history, your physician may also recommend malaria pills or certain booster shots, such as tetanus and/or Hepatitis A and B. Anti-diarrhea medicine may also be advised, in case you are sensitive to certain spices or unfamiliar ingredients commonly used in Southeast Asia.

You should be as fit and healthy as possible before starting on your journey, and have enough physical stamina to go on shore excursions and sightseeing tours.

Health & Safety Protocols

Our teams are experienced with enhanced health and safety protocols and are ready and eager to safely welcome you on board. Our experienced Cruise Managers and crew have undergone special training and will be advised and guided by a Public Health Officer. As always, our crew will be on hand to take care of all the details so you can relax and enjoy your much-anticipated river cruise vacation.

Physical Limitations
AmaWaterways Vietnam and Cambodia itineraries are as varied and active as you want them to be. Cruising days provide ample opportunities to relax on board, land programs and shore excursions require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking. Streets, temple complexes, docking locales, and other sites may have steps and/or uneven terrain. The embarkation/disembarkation points between ship and shore may not be able to accommodate passengers with mobility issues and who use wheelchairs, scooters, walkers or any other mechanical devices. Facilities and services for passengers with physical limitations may sometimes be limited or non-existent.

We kindly request guests requiring special assistance be accompanied by a companion who is physically able to provide such assistance. Transfers and shore excursions adhere to a set schedule and cannot be adjusted for unexpected delays due to physical limitations. AmaWaterways and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, motorcoaches, local guides/operators or other independent suppliers.

Medical Conditions
There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. Please consult your physician prior to traveling if you have a medical condition that might pose limitations during your trip. Please advise us at time of the booking if you have any medical conditions requiring special attention during your trip.

Handicapped Facilities
The AmaDara is not equipped with handicapped facilities such as ramps or elevators, and hallways and doorways may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs or scooters. Motorcoaches, boats, and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions also may not be handicap-accessible.

Special Diets
Please let us know prior to your departure if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g. vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your requests, with the resources available to us.

Drinking Water
We recommend using bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth when you travel to Southeast Asia. A supply will be readily available on board during your trip. If you have a meal in town on your own, ask that bottled drinks to be opened at the table (to ensure purity) and refuse ice cubes. Drink often to avoid dehydration, too.

Street Food
Please be cautious when sampling any food purchased from street vendors, as hygiene standards may be sub-par. It’s best to avoid dairy products, salads, and any food that is uncooked or fruit that you have not peeled yourself.

myAmaCruise App

Packed full of features to enhance your river cruise experience, our app puts your itinerary at your fingertips.

Download our myAmaCruise App [iOS] [Android]

Please be advised that although you may download the app at any time, you will not be able to add or access details for your upcoming cruise until approximately 60 days prior to your departure.

Stay Informed: Enable push notifications within the app settings before you depart to ensure you receive important communications such as a last-minute change to your embarkation location. Instructions on how to enable push notifications are below:

• iPhones and Apple Devices: Open the icon for your device’s Settings, select Notifications, and then scroll down to “myAmaCruise” where you can toggle Allow Notifications to “on.”
• Android: Open the icon for your device’s Settings, select Apps, then scroll down to “myAmaCruise” where you can Select Notifications and toggle the button to “on.”

Excursion Selection: Register for your shore excursions as early as 45 days prior to embarkation after final payment – plus, make changes to your selection if needed once on board.

My Cruise Itinerary: Access a live tracking map of your river cruise route as well as information about each destination you will visit.

My Cruise Album: Upload your river cruise memories to your personal cruise album. You can also share with friends via Facebook, X (Twitter) or email postcard.

Electronic Documents: Access your Daily Cruiser newsletter as well as your electronic Travel Documents (approximately 45 days prior to embarkation) and even complete your post-cruise guest survey.

Daily Cruiser: During your cruise, access an electronic version of your Daily Cruiser newsletter, which provides information about the day ahead including a schedule of shore excursions, onboard activities and more.

Learn more at www.AmaWaterways.com/myAmaCruiseApp

Air with AmaWaterways

• Excellent Fares
• Trusted Airlines
• Quality Experience
• Transfers (to and from airport are included)
• Peace of Mind

AmaWaterways School Project In Cambodia

AmaWaterways is very proud to provide financial support to the ODA Free Village English School in the Siem Reap province of Cambodia. This school helps local children improve their English language skills and broaden their future employment opportunities. Surrounded by the famous temples of Angkor, residents of the area rely primarily on tourism. Guests touring the Angkor Archeological Park as part of their Cruise & Land itinerary will have a chance to visit this school during an excursion to the nearby Banteay Srei temple. Many of our guests are profoundly touched by the friendliness of the local children and wish to contribute something to their education. If you wish to bring some items from home to donate to the school, here are a few suggestions: Very simple story books with lots of pictures, UNO cards, wooden jigsaw puzzles, pencils with erasers, jumbo felt tip pens, dry erase markers, highlighters, Post-It notes, small notebooks, building blocks, toothbrushes, and small tubes of toothpaste, soap and shampoo.

Learn more about ways you can give back here.

Learn About Your Destination

Learn About Your Destination
It may be helpful to do some reading up on the locations you plan to visit. You might wish to learn a few key words and phrases too, especially if you plan to do any exploring on your own.

• Click here to visit our Asia destination hub
• Click here to read our Asia blog articles

Average Temperatures (Hi/Lo ºF)

                                 Hanoi             Ho Chi Minh City       Siem Reap         Phnom Penh

    January                  66 / 57                  89 / 71                   88 / 71                 88 / 73

    February                69 / 59                  91 / 72                   91 / 73                  91 / 74

    March                    73 / 64                  93 / 75                   94 / 77                  94 / 77

    April                      82/ 71                   94 / 78                   95 / 79                  95 / 79

    May                       89 / 76                  94 / 77                   94 / 80                  93 / 72

    June                      92 / 79                  92 / 76                   92 / 79                  92 / 79

    July                       92 / 79                  91 / 76                   90 / 78                  91 / 78

    August                  91 / 79                  90 / 76                   90 / 77                  90 / 76

    September            89/ 77                   90 / 76                   89 / 78                   89 / 77

    October                 85 /72                  89 / 75                   88 / 77                   89 / 77

    November             77 / 65                  89 / 73                   88 / 75                   89 / 75

    December             71 / 59                  89 / 72                   87 / 71                   86 / 72

To get the current weather conditions, log on to www.weather.com

Time Zone

Vietnam and Cambodia: UTC*/GMT + 7 hours

These countries do not observe Daylight Savings Time

*UTC = Coordinated Universal Time

Airport Information

Hanoi International Airport (HAN)
Hanoi Airport is located approximately 28 miles from the city center.

Meeting place: In front of the airport information desk, located outside of the exits of Gates A1 and A2. A representative holding an “AmaWaterways” sign will be waiting.

Airport transfer emergency contact number: +84 985 390 947 (local dial 09085 390 947).

There is no AmaWaterways Welcome Desk at this airport.

Transfers

International Airport Transfers (Arrivals)
If you have a pre-arranged transfer provided by AmaWaterways, please collect your luggage upon arrival and proceed through Immigration and Customs. Head to the meeting place (see info/maps on the following pages) where you will be met by an AmaWaterways representative holding an “AmaWaterways” sign.

International Airport Transfers (Departures)
If you have a pre-arranged transfer provided by AmaWaterways, you will be notified of your pickup time the last day of the tour. Passengers without a pre-arranged transfer can contact the hotel concierge to schedule a ride to the airport by taxi or other local transport.

Cruise Only Guests/Guests with Their Own Transfer Arrangements
If you do not have a transfer provided by AmaWaterways, please make your own way to the hotel indicated in your detailed itinerary.

Docking Locations

There are very few proper embarkation/disembarkation points along the Mekong River. You may need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or tender boat, or occasionally cross a dirt- or grass-covered and uneven surface to enter or exit the ship. Our helpful and friendly staff will always be on hand to assist you.

Land Packages & Hotel Information

Hotel Arrival & Departure Information
The official check-in time is 3:00 p.m. local time. If your flight arrives in the morning, your luggage can be dropped off at the hotel before check-in and delivered to your room later.

Check-out times vary but are typically between 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. If you have a late afternoon or evening flight, most hotels have a room where you can store your luggage until you depart for the airport.

Travel Money Tips

Local Currency
Vietnam: Dong (VND)
Cambodia: Riel (KHR) and U.S. dollars (commonly used)

We suggest bringing some crisp U.S. dollars in newer condition and in small denominations. Please be advised that larger bills and bills in poor condition (i.e. folded, ripped or washed) may not be accepted. Traveler’s checks are generally not accepted anywhere in Southeast Asia.

ATM (Automated Teller Machine) and Credit Cards
ATMs are available in major cities throughout Vietnam and Cambodia, and the machines in Siem Reap and Phnom Penh, Cambodia dispense U.S dollars. Your ship does not have an ATM on board. Prior to travel, be sure to ask your bank about any applicable overseas transaction fees and/or restrictions.

Major credit cards (Visa, Master Card, American Express) are accepted in the major cities on your itinerary. Note that some shops and restaurants may require a minimum charge. Be sure to bring two credit cards, as some places may accept one type but not another. Before traveling, make sure your credit cards are activated and valid for at least 30 days after you return home. It’s a good idea to let your credit card company know you may be using your card overseas, and to inquire about any transaction fees and/or restrictions.

Settling Your Bill Onboard
The day before your cruise ends, you will receive an invoice for any charges you’ve made since boarding the ship. Please make sure all charges are correct before settling your account at the reception desk. All onboard charges are in Vietnamese Dong and may be paid in cash (USD or Vietnamese Dong) or with Visa, Master Card or American Express; pre-paid credit cards or debit cards are not accepted. Your credit card company will convert your onboard charges into your home country’s currency at the current exchange rate and service fees may apply. Please note that your onboard charges will not be referenced as “AmaWaterways Los Angeles” on your credit card statement, as cards are processed in Vietnam.

Safety Precautions

Stay Alert

As in many touristic destinations, pick-pocketing is something to remain vigilant of while traveling worldwide. It is not advisable to have passports or other valuables (i.e. jewelry, money) on your person during excursions. Whenever possible, valuables should be kept in the safe available in your hotel room or stateroom. Stay alert while venturing out on your own or in the evening, especially if traveling solo.
For additional safety reason, please be mindful of the pets and animals at the destination you’ll visit.

Embarkation & Disembarkation Points
There are very few proper embarkation/disembarkation points along the Mekong River. You may need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or a local tender boat, or occasionally cross a dirt- or grass-covered surface to reach the ship. Our helpful and friendly staff will always be on hand to assist you.

Motorcoaches and Tender Boats
To avoid injury, please remain seated whenever riding in a motorcoach or small boat. Day packs and other personal items should be stowed in the overhead racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Heavy or fragile items should never be stored overhead. Do not leave any valuables behind during sightseeing tours. Please watch your step when exiting any vehicle or tender boat and always check for oncoming traffic. All guests must wear lifejackets anytime they are in a tender boat. AmaWaterways reserves the right to prevent any guest refusing to comply with this requirement from participating in the scheduled excursion.

Moving About On Board
Please exercise caution when moving around the ship, especially when it in transit and/or when you are navigating wooden stairs and floors.

During Your River Cruise

Reception
Should you need any assistance during your cruise, please contact the ship’s reception desk.

Onboard Language
The onboard staff consists of 50 crew members. Key English-speaking personnel include the Cruise Manager, Hotel Manager and Purser at reception desk.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available inside your stateroom and Saigon Lounge on the upper deck. Please note that due to the ship’s isolated location, access may be sporadic.

Smoking
Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the ship, only outside in the designated area.

Ship Schedule
Your ship will promptly depart each port of call according to its cruising schedule. We are unable to delay departure for passengers who may not be back on board. Unless you are on a shore excursion accompanied by an AmaWaterways-appointed Cruise Guide, you will need to make your own way back to the ship at a subsequent stop. AmaWaterways is not liable for any costs incurred if you miss the ship’s departure for any reason.

Settling Your Bill Onboard
The day before your cruise ends, you will receive an invoice for any charges you’ve made since boarding the ship. Please make sure all charges are correct before settling your account at the reception desk. All onboard charges are in Vietnamese Dong and may be paid in cash (USD or Vietnamese Dong) or with Visa, Master Card or American Express; pre-paid credit cards or debit cards are not accepted. Your credit card company will convert your onboard charges into your home country’s currency at the current exchange rate and service fees may apply. Please note that your onboard charges will not be referenced as “AmaWaterways Los Angeles” on your credit card statement, as cards are processed in Vietnam.

Stateroom Information

In-Room Entertainment
Each stateroom has a 22” flat-panel TV that features news, sports and documentary channels.

Telephone
Each stateroom has a telephone that may be used to make calls within the ship.

Climate Control
All staterooms are equipped with air conditioning with individual climate control. It takes about 20 minutes to completely cool your room.

Electricity
The electricity on board is 2 flat pins power outlet. For safety reasons, the use of your personal curling iron, blow dryer, electric kettles, travel irons, garment steamer and most other electric devices are prohibited. For more details, please contact our Reservations Department at 800.626.0126

Amenities
Each stateroom provides bathrobes, slippers, a hair dryer, soap, body wash, and conditioning shampoo.

Water
All water on board is purified and filtered, suitable for washing. We do not recommend drinking the tap water. Complimentary bottled water will be provided to you daily for drinking and brushing your teeth.

Safe
All staterooms are equipped with a safe. We recommend placing your passport and other valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room.

Onboard Facilities & Amenities

Medical Facilities
There is no doctor or nurse aboard your cruise. In the event you need medical assistance, the closest medical facility will be contacted. We strongly urge you to obtain adequate travel protection to cover any medical treatment and/or medical evacuation while overseas.

Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available inside your stateroom and Saigon Lounge on the upper deck. Please note that due to the ship’s isolated location, access may be sporadic.

Fitness Room & Pool
Your ship has a fitness room with basic exercise equipment. There is also a refreshing pool located on the Sun Deck. Please note there is no attendant on duty and use of these facilities is solely at your own risk.

Gift Shop
The gift shop has a selection of accessories, souvenirs and gifts. Please contact the reception desk for the hours of operation.

Laundry
Onboard laundry services are available for a fee. A price list can be found in your stateroom. Please note that clothes cannot be dry cleaned on board.

Books & Games
The ship has a small collection of books and games that you are welcome to borrow free of charge. Please return books before the end of the cruise. Book donations are always appreciated!

Sun Deck
The Sun Deck has lounge chairs, a pool and plants. Please proceed with caution when walking around on sun deck. For safety reasons, there may be times when access to the Sun Deck is restricted, such as late evening or during inclement weather.

Saigon Lounge
Your ship has a large, comfortable indoor lounge with a full-service bar on the upper deck. This lounge serves as a gathering spot for announcements, lectures and entertainment.

Onboard Dining

Onboard Dining

All onboard meals are included in your cruise fare. Meals are prepared by our executive chefs and offer a choice of Western or Asian cuisine.

For dinner at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, reservations are required as there is a limited seating capacity. Please contact the reception desk staff for reservation before 2:00 PM on your preferred day (first come, first serve basis).

Beverages

Complimentary bottled water, soft drinks, juices, house brand spirits, local beers, coffee and tea are available at any time throughout the cruise. These beverages are also available during meals along with unlimited fine wine served during lunch and dinner in the Restaurants. Premium wine and brand name liquor are also available for purchase.

Special Diets
Please let us know prior to your departure date if you have any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). We will make every effort to accommodate your request with the resources available to us.

Shore Excursions

Daily Activities
The ship’s Daily Program contains updated information about each day’s scheduled activities, shore excursions, tour departure times and more.

A sightseeing tour is included at each location on your itinerary. These tours can involve walking and/or travel by motorcoach or a small boat. Each tour is led by a qualified English-speaking Guide. Note that scheduled activities and tours are always subject to change, particularly in the event of low water levels or inclement weather.

Motorcoaches and Tender Boats
To avoid injury, please remain seated with seatbelt fasten whenever riding in a motorcoach or small boat. Day packs and other personal items should be stowed in the overhead racks or under your seat to keep the aisles clear. Heavy or fragile items should never be stored overhead. Do not leave any valuables behind during sightseeing tours. Please watch your step when exiting any vehicle or tender boat and always check for oncoming traffic. All guests must wear lifejackets anytime they are in a tender boat. AmaWaterways reserves the right to prevent any guest refusing to comply with this requirement from participating in the scheduled excursion.

Village Visits
There are very few proper embarkation/disembarkation points along the Mekong River. You may need to embark or disembark via a narrow gangway or tender boat, or occasionally cross a dirt- or grass-covered and uneven surface to enter or exit the ship. Our helpful and friendly staff will always be on hand to assist you.

Religious Site Visits
When visiting religious sites, we kindly ask guests to be respectful of the local culture and its customs. Shoulders and knees should be covered and some sites may require you to remove your shoes upon entry. Shoes that can easily be slipped on and off are useful during these excursions.

Safety Tip
As in many touristic destinations, pick-pocketing is something to remain vigilant of while traveling worldwide. It is not advisable to have passports or other valuables (i.e. jewelry, money) on your person during excursions. Whenever possible, valuables should be kept in the safe available in your hotel room or stateroom. Stay alert while venturing out on your own or in the evening, especially if traveling solo.
For additional safety reason, please be mindful of the pets and animals at the destination you’ll visit.

Recommended Gratuities

A Word About Gratuities
Although we leave gratuities to your discretion, many of our guests have asked for general tipping guidelines. Gratuities may be charged on a credit card or given in cash.

Gratuities are not included in the brochure price. In most parts of the world, tipping is at the traveler’s personal discretion. For our guests’ convenience, during their 8-day/7-night cruise on the Mekong River, gratuities are covered for transfer drivers, as well as cruise guides who take you off the ship to see their home countries, for the duration of the cruise. Gratuities are not included for the AmaWaterways team on board or the cruise manager. During the Pre- and Post-cruise extensions gratuities are not covered for guides and transfer drivers. Here are some general tipping guidelines:

Pre- and Post-Cruise

• Cruise Manager: $5 per person per day
• Local Guides: $2 per person for each half-day tour, $4 per person for each full day tour
• Bus Drivers: $1 per person for each half-day tour, $2 per person for each full day tour

Cruise

• Crew: Recommendation $80 per week (The entire amount will be divided equally amongst all crew members)
• Cruise Manager: Recommendation: $30 per week (Your Cruise Manager is not part of the ship’s crew and is the AmaWaterways representative)

Pre-Paid Gratuities: Gratuities pre-paid in advance are for your cruise only and do not include any pre- or post-cruise hotel/land extensions with your Cruise Manager.

Contact Information

Helpful Calling Information

Calling Asia from the US and Canada:

• Dial the US/CAN long distance code 011
• Dial the country code (such as 84 for Vietnam)
• Dial the area code (drop the leading zero)
• Dial the number

For example: to dial a Vietnam phone number, such as +243 826 6919, you dial the following: 011 84 243 826 6919

AmaWaterways representatives are available to help with any needs that may arise during your vacation. If for any reason you require assistance, please call the appropriate number below:

Contact Information

Your final travel documents contain important phone numbers and other information you may need during your vacation.

Please refer to the phone numbers below and/or on your travel documents and advise the ship of any delays or changes to your schedule. If for any reason you require assistance, our representatives are at your service.

AmaWaterways Headquarters
1-800-626-0126 or 1-818-428-6198
Monday-Friday: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Pacific Standard Time
Saturday: 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Pacific Standard Time

AmaDara (24-hr emergency contact numbers)
Cambodia: +855 97 529 9696 (Local dial: 097 529 9696)
Vietnam: +84 902 833 190 (Local dial 0902 833 190)

Land Program and Transfers (24-hr emergency contact numbers)
Cambodia: +855 97 529 9696 (Local dial: 097 529 9696)
Vietnam: +84 985 390 947 (Local dial 0985 390 947)
OR +84 938 469 196 (Local dial 0938 469 196)
Bangkok Airport Emergency Number: +66 9-0973-7235 (Local dial 09-0973-7235)
Bangkok Land Emergency Number: +66 9-7217-7939 (Local dial 09-7217-7939)

Helpful Calling Information

Calling Europe from the US and Canada:

• Dial the US/CAN long distance code 011
• Dial the country code (such as 41 for Switzerland)
• Dial the area code (drop the leading zero)
• Dial the number

Telephone dialing instructions for international calls:
Replace the “+” symbol with the international access number for the country you are in (e.g., for international calls from North America, dial 011+ country + city code + number)

Common Calling Questions

Calling the US and Canada from Europe:

1. Dial the Europe long distance code 00
2. Dial the country code (1 for the US and Canada, 44 for the UK)
3. Dial the area code and number

Hotel Contact Information

Please refer to your cruise vouchers to verify which hotel you are staying at.

Hanoi
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
15 Ngo Quyen Street
Hoan Kiem District,
10000 Hanoi, Vietnam
Tel:+84 (4) 3826 6919

Siem Reap
Sofitel Angkor Phokeethra Golf & Spa Resort
Vithei Charles De Gaulle
Khum Svay Dang Kum
Angkor, 1010 Siem Reap, Cambodia
Tel:+855 (63) 964 600

Ho Chi Minh City
Sofitel Saigon Plaza
17 Le Duan District 1
Ho Chi Minh City
70000 Vietnam
Tel:+84 (8) 3824 1555

Bangkok
The Peninsula Hotel Bangkok
333 Charoennakorn Road, Klongsan,
Bangkok 10600
Thailand
Tel: +66 (2) 020 2888

Ship Contact Information

AmaDara (24-hr emergency contact numbers)
Cambodia: +855 97 529 9696 (Local dial: 097 529 9696)
Vietnam: +84 902 833 190 (Local dial 0902 833 190)

Land Program and Transfers (24-hr emergency contact numbers)
Cambodia: +855 97 529 9696 (Local dial: 097 529 9696)
Vietnam: +84 985 390 947 (Local dial 0985 390 947)
OR +84 938 469 196 (Local dial 0938 469 196)
Bangkok Airport Emergency Number: +66 9-0973-7235 (Local dial 09-0973-7235)
Bangkok Land Emergency Number: +66 9-7217-7939 (Local dial 09-7217-7939)

Telephone dialing instructions for international calls:
Replace the “+” symbol with the international access number for the country you are in (e.g., for international calls from North America, dial 011+ country + city code + number)