Day 4 Finally, sailing in the Med
We set off and stopped at the big marina down the bay to fuel up for our journey; there is a store at the dock so we also stocked up on wine and such as this would be the last opportunity for a few days. I read in a sailing magazine that the 3 T’s for sailors are Thailand, Tahiti and Turkey, once we got into the gulf I could see why. This area is called the turquoise coast for good reason; the water is crystal clear you can spot shells on the bottom even in 40’ of water. Small bays are hidden around each of the many islands and the gulf is surrounded by majestic peaks, the highest off in the distance have snow on their peaks.
The winds were moderate and in our favor making for an enjoyable sail as we made our way to the first nights stop, a small bay called Gobun. We passed through a narrow pass into a small cul-de-sac shaped bay. There were a few boats moored Med style to the dock of the rustic restaurant on the shore, so we grabbed the lazy line and passed our stern lines to the man on the dock. It was beers and photos all around while Dan prepared a nice salad for lunch.
The weather here is noticeably warmer than it was in Istanbul so I was more than comfortable in tee shirt and shorts. There was a small rocky hill on one side of the bay and we decided it would be a nice climb and also offer some great photo ops.


A Turkish Gullet is anchored the hill we are going to climb

I had bought a pair of hiking shoes before leaving home to climb Stromboli when we arrive there in a few weeks and this hill will make a good training session.
We started up in the heat of the midday sun, winding our way around jagged rocks and olive trees, some stretches were steeper than others but it wasn’t too bad provided we stopped occasionally for a water break and some shade.



The crew waits in the shade while I catch my breath


We reached the top sooner than I had expected and the effort was well rewarded with views of sweeping vistas and of course Skyelark anchored below.



At the summit



Em enjoys the view



A boat enters the bay

Once back down we rewarded ourselves with a cold beer or two at the restaurants waterfront picnic tables, I also worked on my trip report under the shade of the awning. Back on board we had the requisite gin and tonics before walking down the dock for dinner. The food prices are a little higher than in Fethiye or the small cafes of Istanbul, but that is to be expected considering the docking is free.
I ordered the mixed grill; chicken kabon, lamb kabob, meatballs and lamb chop ($30 US), accompanied by numerous mezzes and side dishes served family style. The couples all shared a dish each and they still had plenty to eat; nobody had complaints about the food or service.



Hard at work on my trip report

Back on Skyelark it was nightcaps in the cockpit and our first round of raki, the local anise flavored liquor, on board. By this time the docks were full with a majority of charter boats in the mix, but it was peaceful none the less and the sleeping was good.

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A Panoramic video from the top of the hill

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Thanks for allowing us to tag along on your trip. With google earth, I can zoom in and get a view. Really looking forward to your reports.