The marinas in Monaco and Dubai serve as play areas for millionaires, whereas Sanya is emerging as a key destination for maritime tourism. Meanwhile, Singapore boasts a vibrant port.
Sparkling champagne fills the glasses, enormous yachts sail past, and the vast ocean calls out for thrilling escapades—the marina isn’t merely a spot to anchor your boat. These harbors boast top-notch amenities alongside breathtaking settings. Here are six places where docking becomes an experience unto itself.
1. Port Hercules, Monaco
The pinnacle of exclusivity, Port Hercules—also known as Billionaires' Harbour—has for years stood as a emblem of opulence and luxury. Situated at the core of
Monte Carlo
Since ancient Greek and Roman times, it has served as Monaco’s primary harbor. Originally a fishing port and naval station, it has transformed into what might be the world's most recognizable superyacht marina. For the Monaco Grand Prix (taking place from May 23 to 25 this year), the marina turns into an extravagant floating VIP area. Spectators in Zone 1 get excellent track-side vantage points but at a steep price; securing a spot for yachts up to 150 meters long can cost over €150,000 (or around HK$1.2 million).
While Port Hercules remains bustling beyond the Grand Prix weekend, throughout the year, various high-profile individuals such as royalty, rock stars, celebrities, and sports figures anchor their yachts at this prestigious marina. An additional highlight occurs during the Monaco Yacht Show from September 24 to 27, which serves both as a social event and an important date on the nautical calendar. Apart from offering luxurious experiences like upscale shopping, exquisite cuisine, and gambling dens known as casinos, Monaco caters to visitors arriving sans vessels through attractions like the Oceanographic Museum. This museum houses over 6,000 exhibits scattered among areas including a shark tank and vividly colored coral reefs. Furthermore, its roof terrace provides stunning vistas.
Riviera
views.
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2. The Sanya International Yacht Club, located in China
As Sanya’s prominence in sailing and maritime tourism expands, it has acquired the moniker "City of a Thousand Boats." In 2023, the Sanya International Yachting Center was inaugurated along the southern coastline of Hainan Island, aimed at attracting luxurious yacht enthusiasts. This facility offers over 200 docking spots specifically designed for large yachts. It is conveniently located close to several parts of mainland China.
most beautiful beaches
It is also an excellent location for various water sports besides sailing. Along with high-quality dining, shopping, and recreational activities, the center provides more practical amenities like boat upkeep services.
The marina has been home to numerous prominent events, like December’s Boating Sanya, where around 200 seafaring vessels were showcased. However, Sanya offers much more beyond boating; notably, the serene Nanshan Temple, adorned with magnificent Buddhist sculptures, along with pristine white sand beaches at spots like Yalong Bay.
3. ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore
Renowned for its dedication to luxury coupled with environmentally friendly practices, ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove draws inspiration from Singapore’s geographical location—approximately one degree and fifteen minutes above the equator. This marina provides docking facilities suitable for vessels of various dimensions alongside a communal space called Quayside Isle where guests can enjoy gourmet meals at places like WOK°15 Kitchen. Known for integrating sustainable technologies such as solar lights and water recycling systems, this hub reflects Singapore’s stance on green maritime solutions. Additionally, it serves as a venue for significant gatherings including the upcoming Singapore Yachting Festival scheduled between April 10th and 13th, showcasing cutting-edge developments within the sector.
Beyond ONE°15, family-friendly
Sentosa
is an island retreat brimming with attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark. Guests can unwind on its pristine beaches, delve into the guided paths within Sentosa Nature Discovery, and take in panoramic vistas from the SkyPark at Resorts World. Among Sentosa’s accommodations, the Capella Singapore likely stands out as a top choice—at the very least—
Taylor Swift
appeared to believe so when she came to town for a performance last March.
4. Dubai Marina
The biggest entirely artificial marina globally was created by excavating a 3.5-kilometer long channel through the desert and then flooding it with seawater drawn from the Persian Gulf.
Dubai
Marina stands as a city within a city, boasting over 200 towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels, and high-end restaurants. At its heart lies the Princess Tower, which reaches an impressive height of 414 meters and holds the title of the tallest purely residential building globally. This bustling marina also has room for upwards of 500 yachts and megayachts, frequently belonging to members of Middle Eastern royal families and millionaires.
When evening descends, the Dubai Marina Walk, a thoroughfare adorned with eateries, dining establishments, and luxury boutiques, comes alive under vibrant neon lights. At the center of this bustling area stands Pier 7, a seven-story hub featuring numerous food venues and sky-high drinking spots. To the south lies Ain Dubai, currently recognized as the planet’s biggest observation wheel.
5. Vilamoura Marina, Portugal
A favored meeting spot on the Algarve where the affluent and celebrities gather to sail, enjoy cocktails, and mingle, Vilamoura Marina is located here.
Portugal
Its sandy southern coastline has been crowned International Marina of the Year seven times, with an impressive streak of three successive victories, by the British-based Yacht Harbour Association, known for promoting safety and environmental excellence. Although it did not secure the top spot last year (the accolade went to Montenegro’s Portonovi Marina), the expansive marina received recognition in various categories: it was awarded Superyacht Marina of the Year and Sustainable Marina of the Year.
Vilamoura features 825 docks capable of accommodating yachts up to 60 meters long. The area offers various amenities such as a wellness center, upscale shopping options, a golf course, and premium waterfront residences. Additionally, the marina is just steps away from several beautiful sandy shores. Should your budget not stretch far enough for a megayacht, stroll along the promenade where numerous eateries await. There, indulge in a comforting meal of Salmão Grelhado—grilled salmon fillet flavored with herbs, garlic, and lemon.
6. Ocean Marina Jomtien, located in Thailand
The biggest marina in Southeast Asia frequently attracts yacht owners as it is close to a resort town.
Pattaya
, on
Thailand's east coast
With over 450 slips able to accommodate boats up to 75 meters long, Ocean Marina Jomtien has been the central hub for sailing activities in the region since being founded in 1989, and it maintains an active racing calendar. The marina addresses various requirements—from fixing your boat or stocking it with high-quality provisions, to finding skilled crew members—and takes full advantage of the consistently favorable weather conditions throughout the year that make Thailand perfect for maritime pursuits. Whether you choose to sail around local destinations like Koh Larn and Koh Khram or venture further out, this location offers endless opportunities for exploration.
In addition to its maritime offerings, the location features dining establishments and lounges, with views of the Ocean Marina Resort Pattaya Jomtien hotel nearby. Guests can rent yachts and boats, take sailing lessons, engage in various water sports activities, or go on fishing excursions.
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The article initially appeared on the South ChinaMorning Post (www.scmp.com), which is the premier source for news coverage of China andAsia.
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