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National Parks
There are a growing number of marinas and yacht clubs throughout Malaysia where it's possible to tighten the mainsail, tug on a halyard, hoist a spinnaker and let the tropical breezes take you to the new and exciting destinations.
Malaysia is situated between one and seven degrees north of the Equator, enjoying mostly balmy, year-round weather. The wet northeast monsoon blows from November to March, along the East Coast of the peninsula as well as Sarawak and Sabah.
Even during this period, there are periods of fine weather and smooth seas. The southwest monsoon blows from April to October. Generally, westbound yachters travel during the northeast monsoon and those travelling east, during the southwest.
Malaysia is no longer a place for yachters to pass by; it is at the crosswinds of Asian sailing. Historically, it has been at the centre of regional maritime trade and this continues today. The Straits of Malacca on the West Coast is the main route taken by yachters travelling from Australia to Thailand, Africa and Europe.
The East Coast is much quieter with many islands offering excellent places to moor, relax, scuba dive and stock up on essential requirements. The main ports here are Mersing, Kuantan, Kuala Dungun, Marang, Kuala Terengganu while the enchanting islands of Tioman, Perhentian, Redang and Kapas also provide basic services.
East Malaysia is becoming increasingly popular for yachting and as a stopover for boaters from distant shores. Those arriving in Sabah from the east can sail westward around the coast stopping at exciting destinations before continuing towards Peninsular Malaysia.
National Park Attractions
- Bako National Park
Secluded coves and rugged rocky headlands with magnificent steep cliffs overlook the South China Sea.
- Batang Ai National Park
The park's vast rainforest is home to wildlife such as orang utans, gibbons and hornbills. It also contains a five-star hotel.
- Danum Valley
The beautiful Danum Valley is a huge conservation area incredibly rich in flora and stunning views.
- Endau - Rompin State Park
Endau - Rompin State Park is home to the world's oldest rainforest (130 million years old!) as well as the rare Sumatran Rhino.
- Gunung Gading National Park
The chief attraction at Gunung Gading is the giant Rafflesia blossom. This is one of the best places in Borneo to see this rarity.
- Gunung Mulu National Park
Mulu National Park is home to one of the largest caves in the world. All set in a beautiful, all-natural environment deep in the rainforest.
- Kinabalu Park
The highest mountain in Malaysia (4,101m) provides a challenging climb and awe-inspiring views.
- Lambir Hill National Park
Stunning sandstone hills and emerald green pools make this a picturesque getaway.
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- Pulau Payar Marine Park
This beautiful marine park features underwater wonders coupled with great facilities to get you closer to nature.
- Penang National Park
Catch the Green turtles (Apr – Aug) and the Olive Ridley (Sept–Feb) at a turtle hatchery in Pantai Kerachut, in the smallest national park in Malaysia
- Similajau National Park
This 30km long coastal park is home to some of Sarawak's finest beaches.
- Tanjung Datu National Park
Although small, this park protects both coral reefs and virgin rainforests - which lie just 100m from each other.
- Taman Negara
Taman Negara (National Park) is the first and the oldest national park in the country and is filled to the brim with exciting eco-tourism activities.
- Tanjung Piai National Park
Tanjung Piai is an environmental sanctuary, made up of coastal mangroves and is home to unique mangrove dwellers.
- The Belum Forest Reserve
Spectacular Belum Forest Reserve is one of the largest untouched forest reserves on the Peninsula and is a rich sanctuary for wildlife.
- Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park
Comprising five beautiful islands with good facilities, beaches and snorkelling, just a 10-minute boat ride from the capital Kota Kinabalu.
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