The most exclusive sailing holidays in Asia

Chartering a private yacht to explore stunning areas of the Far East can make for the most inspiring holiday. Life on the private yachts we choose is about freedom and that elusive frontier feeling. It’s where iPads and phones are made redundant, replaced by the thrill of ever-changing scenery and daily discovery of secret little spots.

Below, we have highlighted just some of our favourite areas for chartering yachts in Asia. From the sleepy stretches of the Mekong to the stunning islands of Indonesia: wherever you choose to travel, we will ensure that every detail is taken care of. At cazenove+loyd, we have been working with the top vessels in Asia for many years and can recommend those that work best for each family’s individual wants and needs, and allow you to feel like an intrepid explorer while staying in complete luxury.

INDONESIA

Island-hopping around Indonesia couldn’t be further from the hassle that one might expect and is perfect for families. There are few better ways to spend a week than chartering a luxury yacht around Raja Ampat (in the winter months) or the Komodo Islands (more suited to summer trips), and the archipelago is a chocolate box of cultural treats and nature-based adventure.

For those who like adventure, peace and quiet, and the ultimate in unblemished natural beauty, there is nothing quite as inspiring as an expanse of crystal-clear waters dotted with tropical islands as your only companions. Inaccessible to anyone staying in a hotel or lodge on land, many of the small Indonesian islands and the sea that surrounds them are still very much unexplored and unspoilt by tourism, allowing for the most exclusive and unforgettable experiences with your family.

For families looking to charter a robust and incredibly secure vessel, we would recommend a motorboat such as the much-buzzed-about, Mischief, which inside feels more like a Cornish beach cottage with its gingham cushions and white-washed walls. All three ensuite cabins are above deck and feel bright, breezy and incredibly safe.

For couples or honeymooners wanting a more romantic sailing trip, we would recommend a yacht, such as the sleek ALEXA. Designed for two guests, there is just one cabin, which has a private balcony and wrap-around glass windows to make the most of those stunning sunsets. You will be looked after by a crew of seven, including a spa therapist, private chef, cruise director and a dive guide.

Or if only a floating hotel will do, we can also recommend Aman Resorts’ stunning Amandira, where on-board you’ll enjoy the legendary Aman service, food and even a massage. Great service makes a trip and we always ensure that a client’s favourite drinks, games and activities are available. We can also arrange anything from surprise special menus to trips to secret coves and private beaches for barbecues and diving lessons.

If you’re looking for a truly once-in-a-lifetime island-hopping experience, Prana by Atzaro is the answer. We believe ‘the biggest and most luxurious phinisi yacht in the world’ lives up to its tagline. On-board this nine-cabin super-yacht, you can explore the glorious Spice Islands, dragon-inhabited Komodo National Park or the remote Raja Ampat, home to the best scuba-diving on the planet. The palatial boat offers flawless service, sumptuous food and a superb spa, so you can enjoy this remote corner of Indonesia in the utmost comfort.

THE MEKONG DELTA

There are different stretches of the mighty Mekong that offer stunning private yacht charters. In northern Laos, for example, you can take an old Sapan boat to picturesque Luang Prabang. But to see some of the highlights of Southeast Asia, and discover what everyday life is like on one of the world’s most important waterways, we think journeys through Vietnam and Cambodia, near the final stretches of the river, are hard to beat.

Our favourite boats include the stunning Aqua Mekong, the only vessel on the river that has its own tenders, so you can whizz off whenever you want and travel deep into the rural, stunningly beautiful landscape with its remote villages and temples, which few casual visitors ever discover. Also on-board are bicycles and even a tuk-tuk for adventures on land. This is for those who find a real thrill in not seeing another tourist, those who would be excited to try incredibly fresh and flavourful local dishes from little riverside stalls or those who want to go beyond the tick-box sights.