Until the first phases of the Gateway Marina project open in late 2020 the safest place to anchor is still just outside the west wall of the government marina on mud in 4-6 metres.
The shoddily constructed seawall used to offer varied wave protection but recent north and south land reclamations are reported to have created a much calmer internal area. At the time of writing there was a dredged 2.5-3 metres inside and at the entrance.
Take your tender to the main dock inside the marina and register with the Marine Department officers in the building ashore there. The officers will know the current depths in the basin and arrange all your needs.
The Malacca river entrance bridge height is around 10 metres, restricting all but the smallest sailing boats.Further up and inside the river on the left bank island is the CIQ ferry terminal with daily ferries to Bengkalis, Dumai and Pekanbaru in Sumatra Indonesia.
Immigration is available at the CIQ terminal and the officers will arrange your transport. You can request permission to ply the historic river with your own dinghy but it’s better to simply join one of the many-scheduled Malacca River cruise boats.
Opposite the CIQ on the south bank, the Flora de la Mar maritime museum is well worth a visit, as are the historic sites, forts and churches. Take one of the art-deco funky pink bicycle rickshaws to enjoy the best Malacca town has on offer.
Jonker Street (walking street) is famous and well worth a stroll around sunset or after dark, and the local Mamak and Chinese street food are legendary. Proper attire is recommended.
It’s fun but nothing like the chaos of Phuket or Pattaya’s walking streets.
