Yachties can thread their journey with elements of relaxation, luxury, excitement, sightseeing, and myriad water sports. The best months for sailing are from October to May when the weather is generally dry, sunny, and windy, with the advent of the southwest monsoon in May signaling the end of the season. Cabins and theme cruises are also available for those of you who have no sea-fearing legs. Options abound, so set sail now and see for yourself that Asia leaves everybody else in the wake!
While Europe and the Caribbean islands have long been established yachting destinations, Asia’s coastlines have staged some of the most breathtaking water extravaganzas found anywhere in the world. From the aqua blue waters and white sandy beaches of the Andaman to the beautiful Gulf of Thailand and the emerald green waters of the China Sea, sailing in such exotic spots can provide an incomparable experience. Even the experienced yachtsman will feel a newfound sense of adventure cruising in uncharted waters and visiting exotic ports and islands along the way. One of the charms of yachting in Asia is the variation that each destination offers. Every country is unique with its own rich culture, history, architecture, culinary specialties, and friendly people.
Significance of Yachting in Asia
Singapore, for example, hosts the Joe Ng International Dragon Boat Festival, an event that combines a domestic “dragon boat” race with an international dragon boat race, and directly supports the Asian race. They hope to further promote their world-famous event culture. In the same way, the Bahrain Shipbuilding and Engineering Forum takes the lead, thereby attracting potential yacht customers to the country. This country hopes for opportunities for their local business sector. The UAE has achieved unparalleled success in the construction of large ships and ship repair services, and the Dubai International Sailing Week and the Dubai to Muscat Race have been created as part of their strategic plan to become the international sailing and sailing center. In the past two years, China, the host of numerous regattas, including Shanghai Olympic Week and The Qingdao International Match, has spread their wings by pulling out the successful 2007 Volvo Ocean Race in Qingdao, China.
The first thorough survey of yachting in Asia has recently been completed and summarized in Tucker’s Ph.D. thesis, which provided a comprehensive forecast/prediction for the size of the future yachting industry in Asia on the following principles: Asians love the water. Aspiration for yachts is rising. Very little provision has been made for future boom. The Bugis and the Hong Kong Dragon Boat Race provided evidence of a traditional seafaring heritage. Changes occur rapidly in the Asian city and the privilege to build and build mega-yachts now attracts numerous nations. The location of shipyards has a profound effect on the flow pattern of yachting patterns in Asia. Countries that host yachting events not only have increasing money and interest in the sport and are continuing and intensifying their commitment but also have an increasing recognition of the promotional aspects of attracting the yachting community to their nation.
Historical and Cultural Context
The other major yachting tradition was that of the Arabs who were in some predilection for serious enjoyment of their boats. Greatly imbued and influenced by their peers in Spain, they took to the pleasure of sailing under press-ganged oars as well as winds with great enthusiasm. The maximum pleasure was to be derived from a pure sail yacht, the typical Arab gaffe-rigged hull which was the first pure regional sailing yacht type now to be found in the Mediterranean, beside the Nile, in the Red Sea, the Gulf, the Bay of Bengal, off the Malabar Coast, and in the Southeast Pacific from Samoa to Peru. With the coming of Islam and the resultant important necessity to be able to spread the religion without undue encumbrance, the Arab dhaw, the ‘sea horse’, came into its own.
From the first century AD, yachts and their owners have stood out as glaring symbols of the golden times of their respective civilizations. They have rarely been utilitarian modes of transport but more often than not, they were scourges of the “great unwashed.” The very rich traveled for pleasure; the rest did not really matter. Although the Chinese had a sailing boat for thousands of years, they never took to yachting in the European sense. They were quite content to be transported in junks, palanquins, litters, and sedan chairs by coolies while others labored at the oars. Self-propulsion for aesthetic or romantic reasons was unknown in China, unlike in ancient Egypt, the Western Mediterranean, or Europe. Indeed, China led the world into that peculiar state of affairs where scholars with no knowledge of the practicalities could look with the greatest disdain upon traders who exchanged the oriental fruits and spices for gold and then silver.
Traditional Sailing Practices in Asia
Not only were the old Phinisi seafaring ships a miraculous blend of inherent beauty, stability, and ability, but they carried a vast range of merchandise on exciting routes. Phinisi was the design solution that provided elegance with stability, spaciousness, and good cargo capacity. Indigenous woods like Ulin, Rengas, and Bittang, possessing great strength and resistance to teredo worms, gave the ships their lasting quality. The Phinisi were gaff-rigged sloops or ketches, with single or multiple masts, and featured an intricate and crisscrossing spider-like array of standing and running rigging of indigenous palm fibers resting on wooden blocks, equating to no or very limited stress points. The elegant and simple versatility of Phinisi’s flawless sail plan allowed the ship powerful upwind sailing performance. The ability to smoothly reef and furl the sails was an artful application of tensioning and sluicing the halyards, which were traditionally knot-rigged tightly in an adjustable lock from the mast.
We trace this art back to the age-old traditions of Phinisi, the graceful traditional wooden ships of the Indonesian archipelago. Present-day contemporary Phinisi ships are, in large part, derivative of historical Indonesian cargo Phinisi, the Pinas, the Lancaran, the Adriyasa, and other ships that sailed Indonesian waters for centuries. Looking at the very beginning provides a yardstick, especially within an exclusive yacht building perspective. Input from the yachting market, which requires modern comforts, navigational aids, firefighting equipment, and other maritime safety equipment that is non-existent on the original or restored ship, dictates a need to blend the unique appearance and style of a Phinisi hull with a state-of-the-art modern yacht.
Top Yachting Destinations in Asia
Fiji Fiji, a popular choice for both luxury and adventure travelers, is recognized as a renowned sailing and yachting destination. The Fijian people celebrate life’s most precious moments, offering their guests respect, trust, generosity, and loyalty throughout their stay. Experience some of the best snorkeling and diving on your yacht adventure and locals selling garden fresh produce, bread, and seafood are ever ready to restock your supplies. To savor delicious English, Fijian and native Indian dishes go to the most happening town on the Mamanuca Islands – Bounty Island. Fiji is closest to the heavens. With more than 300 islands and 1500 miles of coastline to uncover, it’s no wonder that Fiji is the best destination to explore aboard your own floating hotel.
Zanzibar Archipelago, Tanzania The Zanzibar Archipelago consists of several islands, with stunning beaches and clear waters, making it another sought-after yachting destination. Each island holds its own distinct natural beauty, history, and culture, with friendly inhabitants and a peaceful atmosphere. The Tides Restaurant in Zanzibar serves local cuisine and fresh seafood. The enchanting ambience offered by the tropical paradise is perfect for rest and relaxation on your chartered yacht. Upon your visit, don’t forget to check out the locals selling freshly caught fish along the beach in the afternoon – a great opportunity to obtain your dinner ingredients.
Bay of Islands, New Zealand New Zealand is a popular choice among sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. It’s undeniably an ideal destination for nautical excursions. Bay of Islands is a popular yachting destination, excellent as a port of refuge, with several luxurious accommodations and dining options. The temperate climate, clear waters, and safe harbors make it the perfect spot for a yachting holiday in Asia. The 144 islands it’s comprised of hold great charm and serenity. The sunny weather makes it a great sailing destination all year round and you’re likely to come across dolphins and penguins on your excursion as well.
Phuket, Thailand
Your butler will conduct you to our launch, sparkling with baby sand crab, where to see and be seen are enacted; where jungle legends, giant naval battles, SWAT team raids, bumpy water, sudden dive-buoyancy, white faces, giant high dance clubs, historical sea ports, water buffalo & drug runners, rubber plantations, the inside of a green coconut, Brazil’s mighty England, new luxury homes, inspirational living, Go Phi-Phi in the morning, upcoming F1 events in Kuala Lumpur at night, swift tail, a chorus-line, a choir, picnics, warm beakies, magnificent landscapes, rustic village life, or just having – and letting – time fly by all take place of an evening in this unique dramatic spectacular drop-dead sophisticated moviola-budget-messenger-based business fairy tale venue.
Fan of rutted tracks down a deserted jungle peninsula to snorkel the best patch reefs, and scuba dive coral gardens in Asia. Fresh air, clear skies, sleeping under the stars, fantastic dining on board, and total peace of mind all come as standard in our Phuket Sailing Adventure Yacht Charters. Forty-knot whizz to the Krabi coast lovers to reach his cocktail before the ice has melted, the boat has stirred or anything! Tailor your own irresistible sailing journey in Phuket today and make it a reality with Phuket Sailing. Kick off anywhere in the South Andaman Sea or stay in Phuket and its environs depending on your group’s style. Yacht sampans from rice traders in Sa-mao-deng Bay for pirate treasure and buried demons, change divine acoustics within vast historic Phang Nga Bay, cast a line for the £1,000 Perl’s worth, break fast the fast lane at Phuket Race Week, nudist galore, sun yourself in deserts – the world is your boa oyster. So why are you waiting?
Known as the “Pearl of the Andaman,” Phuket has long established itself as a premier destination for yachting. The tropical coastline, caves, cliffs, and beaches are the perfect place to navigate through the azure water and overhanging cliffs. Phuket itself offers a vibrant streetscape teeming with pleasures for the senses. Our canvas covers the Sirinat Marine National Park in the north of the island with its raised headlands for great anchorages or stay at the speedboat-humping bustling southeast coast.
Langkawi, Malaysia
From Langkawi, a sailing holiday from Peninsular Island could take in Penang, or continue south to Kota Bharu stopping at Ko Lipe, Ko Muk, Ko Kradan, Ko Lanta, and Ko Phi Phi. Sailing to Penang, either anchoring or tying up at the marina just south of the Georgetown causeway, you can pick up a coach to the fascinating old town. Despite neighboring the industrial island of Penang, its miles of unspoiled coastlines have clear waters and pristine beaches, boasting rich marine life. Major cruising destinations include Pulau Jantan, Safir Raya, Pulau Langgun, and of course, Penang. Heading south from Langkawi, the perfect host for a good number of cruising enthusiasts is Ko Tarutao. The island became Thailand’s first marine national park when it was founded in 1974 due to its biodiversity and its beautiful coral reefs. This archipelago offers Ko Lipe, Ko Tubg, Ko Tarutao, Ko Rok Nok, and ending with Krabi.
Langkawi, Malaysia is named as the Jewel of Kedah and is accessible from a number of cities in Asia including Penang, Kuala Lumpur, and Singapore by air. This is a perfect yachting destination for the winter season as it has a delightful tropical monsoon climate. The wet monsoon season starts in May and ends in September. However, it’s not impossible to sail during this season as long as the wind is in your favor. Even though the rainy season has a monsoon period, it’s quickly interspersed with hot sunshine. Langkawi has a lot of islands suitable for anchoring and has safe anchorages for all wind directions. There are 99 beautiful islands in this area, with only two of them being inhabited. The majority of the islands are covered with jungle-clad hills and limestone geological formations with beautiful beaches and clear waters. Sailing near the islands is very pleasant as the mariner can spot coral-fringed areas with scenic and enchanting snorkeling locations.
Luxury Yachting Experiences
The Amandira also extends its hospitality to younger guests and offers a children’s menu with healthy food options to get the little ones adventurous in style, too.
The ship proudly advertises conservation of the surrounding underwater land and sea as a highlight of sailing through tranquil Raja Ampat or the Lost Temples of Bali. The Amandira has a state-of-the-art water treatment plant on board, meaning guests can replenish their own water bottles and keep hydrated in the warm and sunny weather while being green.
The main deck has a luxurious air-conditioned, large salon with a dining area and is where all meals are prepared by Aman’s excellent chef. In addition to the main deck’s elegant ambiance, the four lower-deck cabins are beautifully fitted with queen-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms, and stunning views of the sea.
The award-winning Amandira is an ultra-luxurious sailing phinisi with just five cabins, meaning every guest gets the five-star treatment. Amandira is a traditional but sophisticated vessel made from ironwood, teak, and rattan, and was handcrafted by master shipbuilders.
Exclusive Yacht Clubs and Facilities
Sailing in Style: Yachting Adventures Through Asia’s Most Breathtaking Coastlines.
In Melaka, Malaysia, experience Asia’s first and only Mediterranean-style luxury marina. Not just an international yachting venue, this is also an elaborate residential community called Matroshka, where the luxurious marina is nestled. Design of the Marina Matroshka swap prides itself on harmonizing the elegance and essence of Mediterranean-inspired architecture with the intricate Asian sense and charm. For your convenience, a full range of destinations has also been integrated into the facility, including a world-class hotel, luxurious spa and wellness center, specialty shops, and yacht club, offering the luxury of total privacy, beauty, and leisure.
In Sanya, Banyan Tree Sanya and Angsana Sanya are some of the Banyan Tree Group’s finest hotels that feature yachting facilities in partnership with developers Huifeng Investor Group and Original Vision. Not only that, they are homes to the Sanya Serenity Marina, a venue well-known in China and attracting international yachts and visitors from nearby tourist destinations. It is also a destination for their fine dining outlets, banquet, conference, seminar, and meeting facilities. At the core is the Marina that regularly plays host to international regattas and yacht rallies. Banyan Tree Sanya and Angsana Sanya are operated by world-class international hoteliers—Banyan Tree Hotels and Resorts and sister brand, Angsana Hotels and Resorts.
The Asia-Pacific region is teeming with exclusive yachting facilities and destination resorts. In this section, we will briefly highlight select ones in China, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. They serve as your link to some of the region’s most breathtaking coastlines and coastal attractions – rare yachting getaways that you are unlikely to easily forget. Some of the finest are owned and operated by the Banyan Tree Group.
Environmental Conservation and Sustainable Yachting Practices
Green yacht charters – featuring eco-friendly (or small yacht) rentals, supporting local conservation efforts, “clean-up” cruises and using quality biodegradable products onboard – are offering yacht owners, their guests/clients, yacht crew, and local stakeholders environmental support that can help push forward for greater tourism and local policies to better protect the planet. Such beneficial activities can only be carried out if all stakeholders (especially yacht owners and their crew) are committed to sustainable yachting practices. They must also be caring towards nature and other residents (flora and fauna) by adopting a caring and supporting approach towards reducing the negative impacts of local and mass tourism industries – which include yachting… even if it’s on a smaller scale.
It’s important to remember that yachting in Asia’s most breathtaking coastlines must be done in a responsible way. We’re talking about cruising through seas that are part of territories that are yet to fully embrace environmental conservation efforts. Fortunately, the world is now moving towards initiatives that combine yacht holidays with environmental awareness and education.