This post was written by Sarah Rees
TAKING TO THE WATER IS THE BEST WAY TO ENJOY THE ISLANDS OF MALAYSIA WITHOUT GETTING CAUGHT IN THE TOURIST CROWDS, AND SARAH REES HAS THE DETAILS ON TWO VESSELS THAT WILL JOSTLE FOR THE ATTENTION OF ANYONE TEMPTED TO SET SAIL.
There is nothing – absolutely nothing – half so much worth doing as simply messing about in boats… So said the water rat in the iconic, much-loved book The Wind in the Willows, and while Kenneth Graham may have been referring to the pleasure of riding the river, this experiential joy surely extends to the delight of cruising the ocean on board a boat worthy of attention.
That said, as the islands of the region become increasingly popular with tourists from all over the world, seeking out a private slice of paradise proves trickier. Hopping on board a tourist boat to visit an island is, during peak season, akin to getting on a crowded bus, and for the true taste of just how idyllic life on the water can be, chartering a yacht – especially an impressive, luxurious one – is an unbeatable experience.
Simpson Marine, Asia’s leading international yacht broker since 1984, should be the first port of call (excuse the pun) for anyone seeking to escape the land for a voyage of discovery into Malaysia’s coastal splendour. Thanks to their experience, their patient and knowledgeable support, and the wide range of vessels they offer, even those with nothing more than enthusiasm and curiosity can find a trip and a yacht from Simpson Marine to suit their ideals. The biggest difficulty will be deciding which one to take up, and here are two vessels that will surely compete for any prospective sailors’ vote.
GB-LAGOON 500
This luxurious catamaran comes equipped with four double cabins, each with an en-suite bathroom complete with a shower, ensuring that all guests can enjoy some privacy and comfort during their adventure.
Perhaps the best place to be is the raised helm station on the flybridge, where a long six-seater bench offers space for all aboard to enjoy the stunning views and have a go at handling the craft themselves, as the wind whistles the hair and cares get swept off towards the distant isles.
With large indoor and outdoor spaces for sitting and dining, the GB offers the comfort of a boutique hotel, with the added charm of riding the waves of some of the most picturesque places of the world.
Throughout October, the catamaran is touring the waters of Tioman, an area of such extraordinary appearance that TIME magazine named it as one of the world’s most beautiful islands. The island is surrounded by superb dive sites and it, along with a cluster of other islands, constitute the Pahang Marine Parks, which can be toured around and admired from the comfort of this extraordinary vessel.
Pulau Renggis, for example, is the perfect place for a refreshing dip before donning some shoes and exploring the jungle that complements the sparkling blue of the sea. Another prime spot for leaving the catamaran is in the vicinity of Pulau Tulai, where kayaks are ready for exploring closer to the surface, while divers can dip under the waves for some deep-sea sightseeing.
JYOHANA – LAGOON 620
Before hearts are tethered to the GB, do let the Jyohana have its moment of glory. This 62-foot long catamaran is as impressive as it is vast, soaring through the water with the grace of a swan while providing ample interior space for guests to feel comfortable, and able to enjoy the leisure and beauty of traversing the waters of the region.
With up to four cabins available for guests – all equipped with air-conditioning, fans, and bathrooms – the Jyohana simply begs for a group of family or friends to come aboard and fill the sleek, white vessel with love and laughter.
The master bedroom is the pièce de résistance, with space even for a couch and seating area within it, while all guests will be able to share the comfort of the large salon where 360-degrees of windows offer a continuous view of the stunning areas that this boat explores thanks to its able crew.
Many guests on the Jyohana choose to gather on the flybridge, where a sizeable, shady space caters for those who want to feel the open air without the scorching of the sun at high noon, and observe the crew working their magic to keep this catamaran cutting through the ocean waves.
The Jyohana is, like the GB, available for private chartering in the picturesque waters and islands of the area, with Phuket, Thailand being a popular choice for those seeking crystal waters and white beaches without the hassle of hotels or the competition for deck chairs.
TAKE TO THE WATER
Not only are catamaran trips a great way to escape the crowds that throng the resorts during peak holiday time, they are also the perfect way to create a trip that you will never forget. Life is about making memories and sharing moments that are unique and idyllic, and the pleasure of simply messing about in boats, traversing the fascinating beauty of the waves, is almost as old as humankind.
So treat your family, your friends, and yourself to a break like no other, and experience the true paradise that is available in this region for those who know where to find it. Pick your vessel, hoist the anchor, gather the wind in your sails, and set off!
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For more details on the catamarans mentioned or on the services offered by Simpson Marine, visit www.simpsonmarine.com or call 06.647 6868.
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Source: Senses of Malaysia Sept-Oct 2012
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