Kudat - Docking

Anchoring and Mooring:

In Kudat there are two main berthing options.

1: Well-protected anchorage Basin with Marina Jeti Kudat (locally known as the "Duck Pond")

It is best to enter in the morning before the wind and swell build up as there are reefs each side of the entrance and manoeuvring inside will be easier in calm conditions. This is a good place to leave a boat unattended.

The marina has limited space (one pontoon only) and is only suitable for small boats (<40ft). It's advisable to check for space first by dinghy and speaking with the marina staff before entering.

In settled whether it's possible to anchor near the boatyard, on the port side when entering. Rally fleets that visit here often anchor outside the duck pond.

Alternatively anchor stern-to the wall and use as long a chain as possible. Note that there is no fee to tie to the wall (not part of the marina) but the marina will levy a dinghy fee if you are using their dock and facilities.

There is a hotel close by (Kudat Golf & Marina Resort) with a restaurant and bar and Wi-Fi. Penuwasa boatyard is also in the basin.

Dinghies can be parked at the floating army dock in the southern corner – there is a permanent army camp there, so it is reasonably secure.

A taxi can be taken into town for clearance.

2: Anchoring opposite Town

The other anchorage is opposite the town west of the main jetty (N 06-52-674 and E 116-50-582). In good conditions anchoring off, the town Esplanade is possible.

Getting ashore is possible near the ferry terminal, but be sure to use a stern anchor on the dinghy. This jetty is walking distance to the market, supermarket etc.

There are however many fishing boats near the ferry terminal which make access with a dinghy difficult. It may be preferable to go for the west side of the main jetty which has access with stairs, easy at all states of tide (2m +). Furthermore, the main jetty is controlled by Police which makes it much safer.

An alternative anchorage is to drop on the same latitude but E 116-51-293. This anchorage is better protected against the fresh SW wind and is near the "waterfront" where there are good seafood restaurants. Again, walking distance from banks, shopping etc.

Security

Thefts and boardings have been reported from boats anchored off the town, and boats left unattended on the hard, in the past.

Last updated:  December 2024