Travel trend 2020: Mekong River cruises are booming — here’s why

Meanwhile, Scenic’s more moderately-priced and less-inclusive sister line, Emerald Waterways, has the brand new 84-passenger Emerald Harmony, with seven-night cruises starting at $2,195 per person, including all meals, one daily excursion and wine and beer at lunch and dinner.

Another company, AmaWaterways, offers the 124-passenger AmaDara. Built in 2015, the boat is styled with French colonial-style interiors, glossy teak paneling and carved wood furniture. As it is on the Scenic Spirit, dining is a highlight; likewise there’s a pool, small gym and spa.