5 of the best luxury sailboat journeys in Asia

On a luxury sailboat, the journey really is the destination. From Indonesia’s Komodo Islands and the marine wonderland of Raja Ampat to Burma’s undiscovered Mergui Archipelago, these boats sail some of Asia’s most stunning seas. Decked out in the height of luxury with expert crews and ample sporting equipment, these luxury vessels promise a truly knock out nautical adventure. We can’t think of a better way to explore Asia’s most stunning waters, so therefore, in no particular order, here are our favourite five luxury sail boats… Silolona, The Komodo Islands, Indonesia Silolona, the beautiful lover of the King of the Tanimbar Islands, died in the peak of her youth causing King Atuf to swear he would build a boat that was every bit as precious as his one true love. The story goes that once Atuf had finished the boat he set sail into the sunset, threw his spear into the sky, shattering the heavens and crafting the planets and constellations that now create the night. Centuries later the traditional phinisi schooner, Silolona, was recreated by Patti Seery and is a work of art in its own right – sculpted to perfection. With more crew than passengers each person is able to spend their time on board spectacularly indulging in their every whim. The boat melds tradition and modernity and sails through the mythical Komodo Islands, taking in this hidden corner of the world. Each expedition is precisely tailored to the individual and exclusive in every sense of the word. The Silolona really will provide you with memories of a lifetime and its hand-carved design provides indulgence at every turn. Tiger Blue, Raja Ampat Islands, Indonesia With billowing sails and a sleek timber deck, Tiger Blue is a traditional 34m phinisi yacht that glides through the waters of Eastern Indonesia’s most pristine islands. Five en-suite cabins designed to keep every age group in mind, this boat is perfect for a seafaring family who are seeking adventure. The day on board Tiger Blue might start with an al fresco breakfast of soft-boiled eggs, home-baked bread and freshly squeezed watermelon juice, fuelling you for a morning of exploring the islands. After some lunch, sashimi style, you might want to spend the afternoon on the water – snorkelling, diving, water-skiing, fishing… the world is your oyster! End the day sipping cocktails in front of a beach bonfire as the stars emerge into the night sky. If you are really keen you might even want to slip back into the waves to discover the depths in the dark… Alexa, The Komodo Islands, Indonesia “Pure Romance, Unique Experience, Absolute Excellence…” Such are the descriptions of the Alexa. This is really a boat that is tailored to suit a sojourn with someone you truly love. Perfect for a honeymoon or special occasion, the Alexa is truly an expression of a dream. It provides only one cabin that ensures a unique sense of privacy and seclusion. There are generous living spaces that are decorated with antique art, silk rugs and most importantly affection! Love really is the point of the Alexa. It has been created and detailed with adoration in mind at every turn. You will have your own private Chef, Cruise Director, Crew and spa therapist. The Alexa sails around the Komodo National Park and the Alor Archipelago – 20 pristine islands that are becoming famous for their abundant fish life, virgin coral and seasonal passage of whales. The vessel adopts traditional lines and has a pure, modern look as aged teak is entwined with stainless steel and tinted glass. As you lie on deck and watch the white sails billow in the breeze, you will not be able to resist falling in love all over again. SY Meltemi, Mergui Archipelago, Burma Being one of the most successfully designed yachts for high-end charter the SY Meltemi is a sleek and spacious catamaran that elegantly traverses the waters around the Mergui Archipelago, in Southern Burma. Each of the perfectly appointed 4 guest cabins are equipped with king-sized beds, en-suite bathrooms and bright, wooden interiors. You can roll straight into the glassy waters to wake from sleep and be greeted back on board with a freshly blended tropical smoothie. This will precede a day spent playing with the wind and being guided through the biodiversity on offer in this magical realm. The aim of the Meltemi is for you to be able to be a part of Burma’s wondrous waters. Racing the dolphins or being splashed by the waves from the safety of the catamaran’s nets the SY Meltemi is a fleeting, but stunning, escape from the real world. A discovery of pristine islands, white-sanded shores and service that caters to all your desires. SY Raja Laut, Mergui Archipelago, Burma The Mergui Archipelago is a group of 800 islands scattered across the eastern reaches of the Andaman Sea, fundamentally unknown to the outside world the archipelago is exquisite in its authenticity. Sailing through these untouched waters on board the Raja Laut is really a once in a lifetime experience. A schooner built based on the traditions of the 19^th century Baltic traders, the Raja Laut seamlessly combines classical elegance with modern luxuries. Each of the six cabins are en-suite and perfectly tailored to an unspoiled night of slumber. The main saloon allows the opportunity to watch a late night DVD on its 32” flat screen – however, most passengers prefer to escape modern technologies and spend their time enjoying al fresco meals under the shady canopy of the open deck, or splashing through the crystal clear azure waters. Your personal chef will be busy preparing the daily catch as you relax watching the coral colours of the Burmese sunset. Will your tipple be an Andaman Aperol or a Mergui Mule? James Jayasundera is Founder and Managing Director of Ampersand Travel. 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