With demand fuelled by luxury tourism, developing new marinas is a strategic investment, explains Ekrem Reyhancioglu in a Column for Yacht Style.

Ocean Marina Jomtien in the Gulf of Thailand is Southeast Asia’s only 5 Gold Anchor Platinum marina

Southeast Asia, with over 25,000 islands, diverse marine ecosystems and year-round sailing, is a region rich with potential to become a world-class boating destination. Yet, despite its natural advantages, it is dramatically underserved in marina infrastructure. For comparison, Europe counts over 10,000 marinas providing more than 1 million berths, while Southeast Asia lags far behind.

Thailand, the region’s most mature recreational boating market, has fewer than 2,000 berths, mainly in Phuket. Indonesia, with 17,000 islands, has only a handful of internationally recognised marinas. This gap between supply and demand presents a golden opportunity for investors and developers.

Demand for high-quality berthing facilities is growing rapidly, driven by luxury tourism, an expanding yacht fleet, and increasing numbers of high-net-worth individuals seeking exclusive experiences.

The Covid-19 pandemic accelerated this trend, as yacht ownership and charter demand soared, creating an urgent need for more mooring spaces. I foresee several destinations as prime candidates for international-standard marina development.

INDONESIA

Indonesia is a natural starting point for marina development. A booming tourism industry and strategic location make it a prime destination for luxury yachting.

Bali: A top global tourist destination with a highly professional luxury hospitality industry and an international airport, Bali has a steady flow of high-net-worth visitors.

Labuan Bajo: This gateway to Komodo National Park is rapidly gaining traction as an ecotourism hotspot, with government-backed infrastructure projects enhancing its appeal.

Raja Ampat: Known as “the last paradise on Earth,” pristine marine biodiversity and a remote location make it a magnet for high-net-worth travellers.

VIETNAM

Its 3,000km coastline offers vast opportunities for marina development. The country’s rapid economic growth and focus on luxury tourism create a fertile ground for waterfront investments.

Phu Quoc: Once a sleepy fishing village, this is now a luxury tourism hotspot, supported by an international airport and high-end resorts.

Nha Trang: Known for stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, its strong hospitality market and government incentives make it an attractive option for marina investors.

THE PHILIPPINES

Some 7,000 islands offer top marine landscapes and growing luxury tourism.

Bohol: Famous for its Chocolate Hills and pristine beaches, Bohol attracts high-end travellers and luxury real estate investors.

Cebu: With its international airport and strong connectivity, Cebu is a gateway to the Philippines’ central islands, positioning it as a key player in the region’s yachting scene.

THAILAND

Southeast Asia’s leading destination for tourism and yachting has already produced dozens of marinas, yet a high demand for berths, particularly in Phuket and Koh Samui, highlights the need for further development.

Koh Samui: A luxury tourism hub with a strong market for high-end resorts, Koh Samui has undeniable potential to become Thailand’s next yachting hub.

CAMBODIA

With a strategic location between Thailand and Vietnam, Cambodia is an emerging player in marina development. While the country currently has no internationally-recognised marinas, ongoing infrastructure development makes it a compelling option.

Sihanoukville: Benefiting from major infrastructure investments, Sihanoukville’s strategic position and growing tourism industry make it a promising destination.

MALAYSIA

Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage and strategic location between Singapore and Thailand make it a unique destination for marina development. While development has historically focused on the west coast, the east coast offers significant untapped potential.

Kuala Terengganu: This cultural and heritage gem’s international airport and growing tourism infrastructure position it well to attract yachting enthusiasts.

CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

While the potential for marina development in Southeast Asia is immense, regulatory complexities, land-ownership laws and environmental restrictions must be navigated. These challenges also present opportunities.

THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW

Southeast Asia is on the brink of a marina development boom. With growing wealth, booming tourism and a strategic location, the region offers unparalleled opportunities for investors. For those willing to take the plunge, the rewards are immense.

Southeast Asia is not just a region of untapped potential; it’s a region of limitless possibilities. The question is no longer if to invest, but where and how to do it right. As someone who has seen the region’s transformation firsthand, I can confidently say: the future of yachting in Southeast Asia is brighter than ever.

wearth-group.com

poralu.com

EKREM REYHANCIOGLU

Bali-based Reyhancioglu is Director Asia-Pacific at Wearth Group – a global leader in marina and waterfront development, which includes Poralu Marine marina construction and consultancy firm. He also serves as Vice Chair of the Asia Working Group at ICOMIA (International Council of Marine Industry Associations), helping advance regional recreational boating. He has developed marina and waterfront projects across Asia, Australia and New Zealand, advising investors and developers on sustainable and profitable waterfront destinations.