Langkawi a Eco-Friendly Superyacht Destination
Only 98 NM from Phuket and located on the northwest coast of Malaysia and the southwest coast of Thailand is one of the most acclaimed sailing destinations in South East Asia, Langkawi. Surrounded by the Strait of Malacca, the island chain supports ancient mangroves and coral reefs with abundant marine life in the waters around Langkawi. The interior of the island is lushly green everywhere and the coast is surrounded by a turquoise sea.
Natural protection from the elements year-round makes this 99 island archipelago a fantastic cruising destination. Pristine beaches, rivers, caves and mountains make up the UNESCO Global Geopark, and a testimony to Langkawi’s ecological importance.
The islands are covered and hidden amongst thick forests, mountains and beautiful waterfalls. The highest peak, Gunung Raya, is located on the main island and the white beaches are extremely enticing for those who want to simply relax there is plenty for the experience diver amongst the colourful corals.
While there are plenty of moorings and protected anchorages available around Langkawi, modern marinas offer amenities for visiting yachts. The island currently has four marinas, including the highly recommended Royal Langkawi Yacht Club Marina located in the large sweeping bay in Kuah with over 200 berths and full sailing facilities.
Commenting on the growing interest in South East Asia is Asia Pacific Superyachts (APS) co-founder, Captain Scott Walker has been working with superyachts cruising between Langkawi and Singapore for three decades. “Kuah Bay is a natural harbour and Langkawi is a great location for superyacht cruising on the East Coast of Malaysia. From here you can explore Langkawi’s caves, hidden islands, beaches and million years-old Karst Geoforests. The marina’s close proximity to the town centre also provides excellent access to duty-free shops and other business-class facilities. The RLYC marina’s berths can fit mega-yachts up to 60 meters (197 feet) long, and at low tide has a depth of three meters (almost 10 feet). Pontoons have electricity, fuel and water supplies, and offer wireless internet service too.
Five-Star hotels such as the Four Seasons Resort Langkawi and Ritz-Carlton Langkawi, offer pampering spas, excellent dining and internationally renowned golf courses a welcome break from island cruising. Langkawi has pristine rain forests, abundant wildlife, golden beaches, a town centre with all the modern facilities of a small city and an International Airport.
This Andaman Sea area has become an established superyacht destination attracting yachts from all over the world with many of the international yachting events coming back, such as Sail Malaysia, Royal Langkawi International Regatta and Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta.
Malaysia is a eco-cruising feast for superyachts willing to explore South East Asia.