Where are the Best Places to Dock My Yacht When Sailing in Malaysia?

Seafaring is in the Malaysian DNA. From the distant past to the present day, people have been sailing the inviting, turquoise waters around Malaysia’s mainland and islands. Home to prestigious regattas and races, Malaysia is one of the major sailing destinations in Southeast Asia. Situated alongside the famous Malacca Straits, which connect the South China and Andaman Seas, its natural beauty is hard to overstate. So where are the best spots to moor your luxury yacht and explore the coastline and culture of this royal jewel?

ROYAL LANGKAWI YACHT CLUB

(25 minutes by car from Langkawi International Airport)

One of the biggest Yacht clubs in Malaysia with 324 berths capable of mooring superyachts up to 80 metres. Located within the Archipelago of Langkawi, this award-winning yachting hub comprises The Fisherman’s Wharf, offering artisan markets, fitness and wellness centres and entertainment shows. The Ramada boutique hotel welcomes travellers with spectacular views of the Marina and runs tour packages so you don’t miss any of the exciting adventures to be had on this paradise island and in the surrounding waters.  Whether it’s a sunset cruise or an early breakfast, the resort’s range of cafés, bars, and restaurants will cater to your needs. The island is duty-free, so make the most of those luxury purchases, and if you get your timing right, you can enjoy the Royal Langkawi International Regatta, hosted at the club.

SUTERA HARBOUR RESORT, GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

(15-minute limousine ride from Kota Kinabalu International Airport)

The ideal entry point for yachters heading for Borneo. This 104-berth country club (vessels up to 60 metres) boasts sports courts, a bowling alley and a movie theatre, as well as an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Golf enthusiasts can treat themselves to a round on the magnificent, specially designed, 27-hole golf course, with breathtaking coastal views.  The resort is set in 384 acres, with stunning vistas of the tropical islands of the South China Sea. Close to 1000 guestrooms and suites are available in the resort’s range of 5-star hotels. The resort also offers a variety of cuisine and restaurant experiences, from open-air lounges and beach clubs to more formal dining.  The local area is rich in both culture and wildlife. The intrepid can discover waterfalls and wildlife parks, or climb mountains and visit tribal villages, while the less adventurous can enjoy the natural surroundings in a more relaxed manner. Sabah, or ‘The land below the wind’, is home to a rainforest believed to be twice as old as the Amazon, and Mount Kinabalu is over 4000m high.

ADMIRAL MARINA & LEISURE CLUB

(1 hour by car from Kuala Lumpur International Airport)

This 90-berth Marina (vessels up to 65 metres) is run by the Avillion Hotel Group and is associated with some of Singapore’s best-known yacht clubs. Its location in the Straits of Malacca makes it an ideal place from which to visit Malacca for sightseeing and shopping. Nestled in a sheltered cove, sailors can relax and enjoy the serene atmosphere while watching others sail this stunning stretch of water. The accommodation’s design is intended to reflect the magnificence of Malaysia’s culture and history while simultaneously embodying modern elegance and style. Although restaurant options in the Marina itself are limited, venture a little further afield, and there’s a wide range of local and international food available only a short car ride away. There is also a golf and country club close to the Marina and an ornamental fish centre a little to the south for those seeking interesting additions to their aquariums, ponds or lakes. 

PUTERI HARBOUR

(1 hour by car from Singapore Changi Airport and 30 minutes from Johor Bahru International Airport)

This is a modern, vibrant waterfront project combining high-end hotels and high-quality restaurants with themed tourist attractions, shopping destinations and natural beauty. The harbour itself has 262 berths, with an additional 14 for mega yachts up to 100 metres. Puteri, or ‘The Princess’, aims to become the number one choice for local and foreign sailors in Johor state. As well as the local waters being excellent for fishing, the myriad paths around the harbour are perfect for jogging, cycling, or simply walking and taking in the breathtaking coastal scenery. There are numerous luxury hotels in the vicinity of the harbour, including the Legoland hotel, with its theme park, water park and aquarium. Restaurant options are plentiful. A variety of gourmet local and international cuisine can be found in the hotels and eateries without venturing too far. There’s even a Hard Rock Café for those that are never too old to rock out!

REBAK ISLAND RESORT & MARINA LANGKAWI

(20 minutes by car from Langkawi airport followed by a 10-minute boat ride, roll-on-roll-off service for private vehicles)

One of the most picturesque marinas you will visit. Glittering waters and ancient flora and fauna combine to create a magical island retreat for you and your fellow travellers. The 189 wet berths of up to 30 metres are situated in an inlet, surrounded by wooded slopes and sheltered from the waves. Accommodation design is inspired by local architecture, and guests can choose from 7 different styles of chalet. There is a private beach and swimming pool exclusively for resort guests. Activities such as water sports, nature walks and cultural visits, are on offer for those who enjoy being more active. Whichever you choose, you can always quench your thirst in the pool or lounge bars. An array of cuisines from around the world awaits in the resort restaurants, with views surveying the yachts in the marina or gazing dreamily out to sea. 

Whichever option you choose, as a port of call or for a more lingering stay, the amazing natural beauty of Malaysian waters will leave you enchanted. Unforgettable memories are waiting to be made on your luxury yacht voyage. Contact our team of experts at Simpson Marine for detailed information regarding luxury yachting experiences in Malaysia and detailing the top regional destinations, marinas and harbours.