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 maintains a vibrant port.
Bubbly pours freely, colossal yachts sail past, and the vast ocean calls out with the allure of exploration—marinas are far more than mere docking spots. With top-notch amenities and breathtaking settings, these six locales stand alone as destinations worth visiting.
1. Port Hercules, Monaco
The epitome of exclusivity, Port Hercules—also known as Millionaire’s Harbor—has for years stood as a emblem of opulence and luxury. Situated right at the center 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 over time into what might be considered the world’s most recognizable superyacht marina. During the Monaco Grand Prix (from May 23 to 25 this year), the marina turns into a luxurious floating VIP area. Spectators in Zone 1 get an excellent view of the race action right from their yachts, but at a steep price; securing a spot for a vessel up to 150 meters long can cost upwards of €150,000 (or about HK$1.2 million).
While Port Hercules remains bustling beyond the Grand Prix weekend, throughout the year, it sees visits from royalty, rock stars, celebrities, and sports icons docking their yachts at the marina. A key event during this time is the glamorous Monaco Yacht Show (from September 24th to 27th), which highlights both social gatherings and marine activities. Apart from luxurious shopping, gourmet dining, and gambling at casinos, individuals arriving sans boats have access to attractions such as the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. This museum houses an impressive collection exceeding 6,000 exhibits observable among sharks swimming freely in the lagoon or amidst colorful coral reefs. Additionally, visitors can enjoy panoramic views atop the museum’s roof terrace.
Riviera
views.
Are you looking for insights into the most significant issues and global developments? Find your answers here.
SCMP Knowledge
Our latest platform features handpicked content including explainers, FAQs, analyses, and infographics, all provided by our esteemed team of experts.
2. The Sanya International Yachting Center, 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, crafted specifically to cater to luxurious yacht enthusiasts. This facility offers over 200 docking spots, including areas designated exclusively for mega-yachts. Nestled close to some of China’s finest coastal regions,
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 yacht upkeep.
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; for instance, the serene Nanshan Temple, adorned with magnificent Buddhist sculptures, along with pristine white sand beaches at locations such as Yalong Bay.
3. ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove, Singapore
ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove stands out as a comprehensive yacht sanctuary celebrated for blending luxury with ecological responsibility. Named after Singapore’s geographical coordinates—approximately one degree and fifteen minutes above the equator—it provides docking facilities suitable for various sized vessels. Additionally, it features Quayside Isle, where guests can enjoy dining at places like WOK°15 Kitchen, offering high-end culinary experiences. Known for incorporating sustainable practices such as solar-powered lights and water recycling systems, this marina reflects Singapore’s dedication to environmentally conscious maritime management. Hosting significant events including the upcoming Singapore Yachting Festival from April 10th through the 13th, it also showcases cutting-edge developments within the sector.
Beyond ONE°15, family-friendly
Sentosa
is an island getaway brimming with activities such as Universal Studios Singapore and Adventure Cove Waterpark. Guests can unwind on its pristine beaches, delve into the nature-filled paths of Sentosa Nature Discovery, and relish panoramic vistas from the SkyPark at Resorts World. Among Sentosa’s accommodations, the top choice might very well be the Capella Singapore – at minimum,
Taylor Swift
appeared to believe so when she came to town for her performance last March.
4. Dubai Marina
The biggest entirely artificial marina globally was built by excavating a 3.5 km long channel through the desert and then flooding it with seawater from the Persian Gulf.
Dubai
Marina stands as a city within a city, boasting over 200 skyscrapers along with luxurious hotels and high-end restaurants. Notably, it houses the 414-meter Princess Tower, which holds the title of being the tallest residential building globally. Additionally, this marina has space for upwards of 500 yachts and megayachts, frequently belonging to members of Middle Eastern royal families and millionaires.
When darkness descends, the Dubai Marina Walk, a thoroughfare adorned with cafés, eateries, and luxury boutiques, comes alive under the glow of vibrant neon lights. At the center of this bustling area stands Pier 7, a multi-level hub featuring dining establishments and sky-high drinking spots. Meanwhile, jutting out at the south end lies Ain Dubai, currently holding the title as the planet’s tallest observation wheel.
5. Vilamoura Marina, Portugal
A favored meeting spot on the Algarve where the affluent and celebrities boat, imbibe cocktails, and mingle, Vilamoura Marina is located here.
Portugal
Its sandy southern coastline has been honored with the title of International Marina of the Year seven times, notably for three successive victories, awarded by the British-based Yacht Harbour Association, known for promoting safety and environmentally friendly practices. Although this extensive marina did not secure the top spot last year (the accolade went to Montenegro’s Portonovi Marina), it received recognition in various categories: it was crowned as both the Superyacht Marina of the Year and the 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 within close proximity to several beautiful sandy shores. Should your budget not be sufficient for purchasing a megayacht, stroll along the promenade where numerous eateries await. There, treat yourself to a dish of salmão grelhado—a grilled salmon fillet flavored with herbs, garlic, and lemon.
6. Ocean Marina Jomtien, located in Thailand
The biggest marina in Southeast Asia frequently attracts yachters as it is close to a resort town.
Pattaya
, on
Thailand’s east coast
With over 450 docks 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, featuring a packed racing calendar. The marina addresses various requirements—from fixing your yacht or stocking it with high-end provisions, to finding skilled crew members—and takes full advantage of the consistent weather throughout the year that makes Thailand perfect for water sports. Whether you’re planning short trips to local destinations like Koh Larn and Koh Khram or longer voyages further away, this facility offers ample opportunities for exploration.
In addition to its maritime offerings, the location features dining establishments and drinking spots, with the Ocean Marina Resort Pattaya Jomtien hotel providing a backdrop. Services include yacht and boat rentals, sailing lessons, water activities, and fishing excursions.
More Articles from SCMP
In an arms race for tech and talent, China blitzes as the US retreats
China broadens financial scope to increase expenditures, offsetting US tariff impacts
Could Donald Trump be considered the real-world equivalent of the Manchurian Candidate?
Why Trump’s verbal clash with Ukraine’s Zelensky has stirred up a tempest in Taiwan
The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
Copyright © 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
