If there is one trip you do when on holiday choose this one – a day spent cruising around the Aegean Sea off Bodrum on a traditional boat. It’s a great day out for all the family or like us a group of 4 girls.
It was an early start to the day pick-up at 0930 by the tour company. The mini bus arrived on time and we met some of the others also going on the boat. With a good morning all round and general chat of where you’re staying, do you like your accommodation, how have you found prices etc. etc. The general consensus was that everyone liked Yalikavak, eating out was cheaper than home ( UK / Holland) and the people were friendly. A few had done other trips and recommended Epheses or Pammukkale as the top trips.
We arrived in Bodrum New Marina for the 10am departure. The boat staffs were cheery and welcoming. The boat had two decks one inside and a top deck with huge scatter cushions for sunbathing – there was also a small front bathing deck.
We opted for the top deck got our towels out and settled down for a spot of sunbathing. It was a hot day, around 35 degrees so a lashing of sun lotion was applied regularly! The boat set off holiday style music was playing and everyone just relaxed and soaked up the sun. The first stop was in the middle of the sea where we went swimming. I couldn’t believe how clear the water was as you could see the bottom. We latterly found out that the Aegean it is one of the cleanest seas in the world. Some boat trippers took advantage of the snorkeling stuff that was available for free use. Back on board there was lots of laughter and squeals of delight from the youngsters on board. Next it was drinks all round; you could buy beer, wine or soft drinks that were not too expensive. Next we pulled up nearby an island that you could swim to and then onwards to the next stop where we would be stopped for an hour and lunch would be served on the lower deck.
Lunch was meatballs, pasta and salad with bread – very nice and filling and seconds were available if you wanted it. After lunch we thought we would be daring and follow suit of others and jump off the edge of the boat – that was a laugh and plenty screams to be heard!
Next stop was a hot thermal spa pool that was cut out of the rocks. It cost an additional 3tl each to go in here but we all decided it was worth it. I admit we were apprehensive as the sulphur smell was overwhelming but once in the pool it was very warm and the water so soft it made you feel good!
Back on the boat and off we went to another island and we lay here on the small beached cove for half an hour then it was back to Bodrum
It was a really good day out, the boat was clean the service first class and I recommend it highly. It was fun, relaxing and all in all worth every penny (or should I say Lira.)
During our two weeks in Yalikavak we had met many people of different ages from countries and most had at some point during their trip taken a boat trip some had an all inclusive option and others go to Camel beach but all said the same IT WAS GREAT!
