ALATURKA BLUE CRUISING-HAPPY DAYS!

  Fethiye, Turkish Aegean Coast, Turkey
Saturday, August 9, 2008

4 days and 3 nights cruising between Fethiye and Olympos- tough life!



This summer, I climbed aboard a traditional Turkish gulet (wooden, hand-crafted sailing boat, complete with masts and motor) in hot, hot Turkish sun, emabarking on the most relaxing, scenic and enjoyable boat cruise I have ever experienced...its a must!
The gulet was suprisingly spacious and clean, complete with full galley...and interior bar!! The crew were such a laugh, extremelly helpful and cooking delicious traditional Turkish cuisine for everyone (even ringing a bell to let you know the food was ready!) .

Highlights for me included: 

             
The breath taking Oludeniz (Blue Lagoon): infamous for being Europe's most stunning beach and apparently renowned for being one of the best spots in the world for paragliding...I'm too afraid of height to give it a go :(

           
Sailing over the Sunken City, ancient ruins so incredible it is now a World Heritage site. From here we cruised to
Simena Castle....Magical view over the bay!! I was in absolute awe of the underwater Lycenian Tombs. My god, you have to see this to believe it!


            
Butterfly Valley, sunbathing, crystal blue water swimming and hiking to a waterfall


Transfer to the treehouse of your choice in Olympos. Olympos has an amzing vibe, such a chilled out place, very very hard to leave!!


For 3 days I did nothing, and while some might say WHAT? It was perfect after so much travel!!
While on board I slept under the stars, marvelling at gorgeous sunsets and jumping off deck for a night swim. Through the day I snorkelled, fished, sea kayaked around St Nicolas Island...and jumped off cliffs!! Some fellas went paragliding, and deep sea diving which they totally raved about. We smoked Turkish nargile, had afternoon apple tea, cold beers, plenty of laughs playing backgammon...making friends for life!!