Superyacht Tourism

Southeast Asia Pilot – September 2025

The Rise of Superyacht Tourism in Southeast Asia

Over the past decade, Southeast Asia has quietly emerged as one of the world’s most attractive playgrounds for superyachts. Once a niche destination, the region is now a serious contender in attracting superyacht tourism, alongside the Caribbean and the Med – and it’s easy to see why.

superyacht tourism at Romang Island — Latitude at Romang Island, east of Flores | photo by Anil Thadani

Expanded marina infrastructure

Marinas at Phuket, Pattaya, Langkawi – and the new Bali Gapura Marina (formerly Benoa Marina) – can accommodate superyachts between 75m to 100m. Vietnam’s newly opened Ana Marina Nha Trang should be able to handle yachts up to 70m. These facilities offer international-standard services – with technical support, chandleries and, in some cases, customs clearance.

How long

⇒ Phuket Yacht Haven Marina: 100m+
⇒ Ocean Marina (Pattaya): 75m
⇒ Royal Langkawi Yacht Club: 80m
⇒ Bali Gapura Marina: 90m

Strategic geography

The region straddles the Indian and Pacific Oceans. This makes it ideal for yachts repositioning between seasons. As a result, more and more owners and/or captains are planning ‘gap years’ in the region, spending six months cruising Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Raja Ampat before heading back west.

Experiences beyond comparison

Superyacht owners, guests and charterers demand exclusivity – and Southeast Asia delivers. Think private beach barbecues on uninhabited islands, diving in waters where you’re the only boat, or visiting tribal villages that rarely see outsiders.

Challenges that need addressing

There are still hurdles: inconsistent regulations, limited large-yacht repair yards and permit headaches. But the trend is undeniable – Southeast Asia is on every serious superyacht owner’s radar.

For owners, charterers and captains considering this region, Southeast Asia Pilot remains the definitive cruising guide. It details 600+ anchorages with shoreside tips and other useful insights across nine countries, from the Andaman Sea to the Spice Islands – with introductory notes on several more. Available now in print and digital editions.

⇒ ⇒ ⇒ Buy Southeast Asia Pilot

Southeast Asia Pilot and Phuket Publicity Services do their best to ensure that the information on this website is accurate. However, good seamanship demands that seafarers check critical information carefully with relevant sources to ensure it is up to date.Facebook