here 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.