Russian Women Discussion

RWD Discussion Groups => Trip Reports => Topic started by: msmobyone on July 11, 2015, 08:52:05 AM

Title: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on July 11, 2015, 08:52:05 AM
From what I understand, member Tiger Paws may have done this long before us...


I like racing Lasers - which at 56 some might say is a mug's game, but I still give the young 'uns a run for their money in a good breeze :)

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/yes...%20I%20love%20this%20sport_zpsynbv6el8.jpg)..that's me on the left - just about to unlap myself - as I've be swimming too many times - this race was subsequently abandoned as all competitors were horizontal ..


It has been my dream to sail with a loved one and one of my favourite places in the Turkish Riviera..scenic and full of history.

I persuaded S.C - who had never sailed before - to come and I had some work to do in Istanbul, and then flew out a couple of days early to Dalaman - southern Turkey - to meet the owner of the yacht I'd chartered and find a place to stay after the week on the yacht.

I rented a car and found a hotel on booking.com -Hotel Berlin in Fethiye. It was midway between the airport and the yacht's marina and it was cheap. 30usd / night

I arrived in the dark and called SC from the balcony. I showed her the canal that ran in front of the hotel and was surprised to see that the whoosing noise I'd heard in the night was the sea  :thumbsup: ..What a find ..

Breakfast was included and I showed her the situ of the hotel and I booked it for some of the days after our stay on the boat. 45 / usd/ night for a sea view room.. more later.

I went off to find the yacht marina - an hour's drive - and took the yacht out with the German lady owner - to learn the ropes - literally.

I paid the charter fee and damage deposit and returned to the hotel.

SC was flying from Sochi to Dalaman via Istanbul and the car hire firm agreed to meet us at the airport and transfer us to the Yacht. I will recommend the firm in a later post.

The driver - one of the owners kindly stopped to take our photo together by a scenic spot - and he had a cigarette.

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/bDNyCNPe04tp008 (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/bDNyCNPe04tp008)

Eventually, we arrived at the marina and SC saw the other yachts and my heart sank ... ours at 28ft was one of the smallest and she was looking at all the 15m yachts and getting grand ideas  ;)

We loaded our cases onto the yacht and it was baking hot. Madam wanted to swim - so I found a little creek, not far from the marina and in she dived off the rear bathing platform... squealing with delight as a Loggerback Turtle swam past....craning it's neck to get a good view- before diving


The Marina is at the end of a 2km long inlet and we had anchored under a large hill and it was sheltered. I wondered at the wisdom of risking a passage around the headland to the next port - but thought it was better to let SC understand the procedures for upping anchor and then head back to the Marina.

A 41 foot yacht with 4 guys on board - flying a UK and Scots flag had moored nearby and was interested in my crew - who was cooing every time she spotted a Turtle. We flew a German flag and they were clearly confused as we were speaking Russian.

They left after an hour and SC seemed keen to try a passage - so I suggested the nearby Greek island - only 4 km away.

We had to motor into the wind and were treated by the arrival of two Dolphins - which is incredibly good luck.

We were able to unfurl the front sail  - Genoa - and sailed without motor on a easy reach across to the island in a strong breeze . SC LOVED it and I was relieved ... a natural.

I have a sailing friend in Cyprus and he had advised the best place to moor up - as the  harbour charge 59 euros a night  :D

We furled the sail and anchored in a beautiful little harbour - next to the  UK 41 footer. I had no idea they had the same destination in mind.

While SC swam - I observed if the anchor was holding and we dropped the inflatable over the side and I rowed SC ashore.

We drew out some Euro - this was 7 days before the currency controls kicked in and walked around the main port - looking for a good restaurant.

We found a place with a Ukrainian waitress - this is an island of 500 people - who lives with her Greek boyfriend  :D  SC tried fresh fish and Kalamari - Squid...loved it all.

We walked back to the yacht  - over the hill - and although it was dark - I knew it was NOT where I had left it  ....

We rowed out to the spot and hailed the UK yacht - as I spotted our yacht's mast on the other side.

They were shocked to find I wasn't German / Russian and informed us that a mini tornado had hit and two yachts had broken free - one of which was ours - so they 'rescued' it and claimed salvage rights  :D

Having realised they were joking, we re-moored  - this time using two anchors - fore and aft and promised to ply the rescuers with grog - alcohol next morning  - Thank GOODNESS they had decided to stay on board.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-22%2010.06.36%201_zpscetklo72.jpg)

This was the scene next morning - all calm

I rowed ashore a and went to the local store and was 'told off' by the Policeman and Harbour master for not reporting in  - which I had - but they weren't there... I was 'forgiven' - as I retain some Greek from my days in Cyprus and this was a hit ... I promised that we would visit the island, again and headed back to the yacht and to pay my dues to our saviours.

They set sail for destinations unknown and I set about taking shots of SC -as we are thinking of selling bikinis online and I had brought 10 samples and it seemed a good idea to take photos in a good setting - without an audience

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/Yacht%20fav%207%20stood%20on%20platform-looking%20towards-zoom_zps7aron11g.jpg)

This concludes day 1 and starts day 2 of our experience



 










 
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: ML on July 11, 2015, 10:43:15 AM
I think showing nipples is a little too obscene for this website.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: tfcrew on July 11, 2015, 11:32:03 AM

A sailboat.


Now this is a yacht...(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/c/ce/Yacht-Samar.jpg)
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on July 11, 2015, 09:41:00 PM
A sailboat.


Now this is a yacht...

NAW, That's a gin palace that can't get to places we went and has an 'iron topsail'  ;D

We used 8 litres.. a gallon and a half.. of diesel in a week...
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on July 14, 2015, 08:39:33 PM
Morning of Day 2 - CONT

SC enjoys sunbathing and swimming and the yacht moving interferes with these plans  :chuckle:

I have to make passages that includes coves to anchor up and cool off

The trip to our next stop depends on the wind and it seems light, so I decide to go back to the Turkish mainland and the port of Kas - sounds like cash - in Turkey. We get our internet from the masts on the Taurus mountains that tower above the town and it is only 8 km away.


Reluctantly, we leave the Greek island and head off - under two sails..

photo taken of our saviours - before we head off ..note the Greek courtesy flag .. one flies the registration flag at the back and the nation you visit on the right [ starboard] side - looking to the front

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/KUSsefU18u3tzJi (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/KUSsefU18u3tzJi)

I see a flower floating in the water .. it is from a wedding we saw the night before ... somehow the Bride has lost part of her bouquet. I retrieve it and SC claims it is 'good luck' ..

The main harbour is beautiful

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/kbX0v2L5e3L6ulF (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/kbX0v2L5e3L6ulF)

There is nowhere to anchor off the small uninhabited islands, so SC decides to hang off the bathing platform ladder - as we are only making 2 knots... I allow the following inflatable to 'hang back' a further few metres - in case she loses her grip.

While I am filming this idyllic setting, Madam decides to use the sea as a natural mouthwash..she tells me it is very good for the teeth  :chuckle:



http://youtu.be/agBhoKYJDkE (http://youtu.be/agBhoKYJDkE)


We make the passage across the channel - watched by a Greek coastal patrol naval vessel - that performs some exciting turns and manoeuvres - while they have diesel left in the tanks, perhaps   :chuckle:

We are too early to go into the port - it will be difficult to swim there, so we find a bay and anchor up. Within minutes we see many Turtles and while SC swims I try to make videos but they dive the moment I see one that is close  :GRRRR:

video link .

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/2GIVwjge7AyZEal (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/2GIVwjge7AyZEal)


We munch on the most delicious water melon  - bought on the Greek island - that we have ever tasted and the afternoon slips by.

I try to stay out of the sun and entertain myself by responding to emails and posts on forums and this is one of my fav photos of the trip...

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/20150622_132805_zps14rpk8js.jpg)


I try to take some photos using the lucky flower ..

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/IkjWzBvGh6mq68d (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/IkjWzBvGh6mq68d)


As the evening closes, we head for the port. I have a guide to places  - in German and know I must moor up stern first and SC is dreading the 'ropes time' ... as this is when Mark is not 'spockoinie' ... calm  :-[..

I motor in - all the fenders - rubber protectors are out - and look in vain for an empty slot... the end of the harbour is approaching .. I am thinking. how will I turn in here and where to sleep, when I see a Scots flag amongst the masts


Sure enough,  it is our heroes and there is a space along side... They have seen us arrive and fall over themselves to throw SC ropes and help us moor up, safely.  I managed to reverse in first time... looking like a pro... the engine torque pulls the boats off a straight line and it takes some space / speed to get the helm to respond ..

One of our helpers is a local, Mr Smiley - Ishmael - who offers his biz card and welcomes us to his restaurant- telling us he will bring fruit and bread in the morning and 'sort out the harbour dues' ..I instantly like him and cannot see many yachties would get past his winning smile.

We have to use the Scots yacht to get ashore and SC 'walks the plank' in her bare feet - with aplomb .. She is a natural on the boat.

The meal is great - Mr Smiley brings us a Turkish Shiraz and it is super.

After the meal, we join our heroes for a night cap - Mongolian Vodka. It turns out that SC was a secretary for an Oligarch that one of the investment bankers knows... small world :o

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-22%2023.34.50_zpsf9qbqr70.jpg)


The next day, I hope to meet up with a prospective client and do some biz so we make our excuses at midnight and jump down into our little yacht and bed.
























Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: 2tallbill on July 14, 2015, 09:02:31 PM
Thanks for sharing!

Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: calmissile on July 14, 2015, 09:18:31 PM
Thanks for sharing.  Great photos and videos.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: BillyB on July 14, 2015, 09:52:56 PM
we are only making 2 knots...



That's a pretty good speed considering your fiancée was the only one pushing the boat! Need more speed? Get more women.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on July 15, 2015, 09:42:47 AM
Morning of day 3

I awoke to hear Russian being spoken and on poking my head out of the door saw we were now the filling in a sandwich. We had seen the Russians near the Greek island - but they did not go there - perhaps no Schengen visas.

As we flew a German flag, I suspect they though se were also German - so when I said 'Dobri utro' - they smiled.

Mr Smiley arrived with fresh bread and fruit - as promised. When he departed on his moped - the Russians offered us their bread and departed - Mr.Smiley zoomed back and wondered if they were going to pay their harbour dues, but they were already on their way  ;D

I went with him to top up my internet - an interesting bike ride - and we also departed - having taken photos of the English books about our intended destination.


We left - having checked the wind would be fair and not too strong and reporting our intended destination to the Scots yacht... just as a matter of precaution.

We set off under motor and SC manned the tiller as I hoisted the mainsail - it was VERY hard - kept getting stuck in the track and I unfurled the Genoa.

We were under way - not exactly bombing along - and SC bathed - hanging on to the ladder.

We saw the Russians  - who had stopped off in a cove - they were heading the same way as us, but were cheating - also using the engine.

The destination was Kekova - a place to the east - with a fiord like lagoon, castle and a sunken Byzantine city.


SC really enjoyed hanging on to the ladder and surfing and I had - again - let the following inflatable hand back - in case she had to let go - the wind was light and we were on a broad reach - wind not quite directly behind and the autohelm was deployed.


This was a 20 mile plus passage and we were making good time.

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/ZIZsaCzaOfr2XUP (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/ZIZsaCzaOfr2XUP)



As we approached 11.30 the prevailing wind picked up - we were now running before the wind - which isn't easy as the sails like to swap sides.

In the next video you can see a headland and as we approached it the wind REALLY blew up and in a within 2 minutes SC was having problems climbing the ladder and the autohelm couldn't cope in the swell.

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/peKloUGi7Xr6W8j (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/peKloUGi7Xr6W8j)

I pulled her aboard and we surfed  - goose wing  - sail either side for 2 hours - zooming along ... I was looking for the gap to enter the 'fiord' / lagoon and we were chasing a catamaran that was twice our size and keeping up.


SC was aware I was enjoying myself and wasn't worried - a truly great crew... considering it was her first time.

I spotted the cat disappearing and we shortly after saw the gap and flew through . I expected the wind to drop and it did, but we needed to find shelter from the wind and headed into the wind - zig-zagging up wind to get to the head of the 'fiord'

http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/Tmdvwb0qor0R4nV (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/Tmdvwb0qor0R4nV)

First the genoa refused to furl - reduce in size    - fixed - then the mainsail refused to come down - to allow me to take in a reef - reduce the power.


SC remained calm as we approached cliffs and tacked -changed direction in their slight lee... less wind.

We arrived at the head of the 'inland sea' and anchored - with the main still hoisted and I pulled it down with much effort.

SC had been scared - and I was not pleased about the state of maintenance of the mainsail - not being able to reduce it's size was  plain dangerous - but I had spilled the wind and we were never going to capsize.

The wind was still gusty and it was only mid afternoon - SC swam and I planned our trip ashore - as it was a 300m row.

By early evening the wind had subsided and we tried to motor the yacht closer and were waved closer by one of the two shack restaurants - who assured us that there was sufficient water to moor up on a jetty - as so it was.

There was no mains electric or water and the spot was idyllic  - our evening meal was cooked over a charcoal grill and with a beer, Turkish coffee, Lamb shish salad and sea bass came to 12 Pounds - 18 bucks  :clapping:


http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/wLPoFjYDIrYXOsv (http://carousel.dropbox.com/photos/cc/wLPoFjYDIrYXOsv)

We motored back to our anchorage and slept.





 


 
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Larry1 on July 15, 2015, 10:03:59 AM
Morning of Day 2 - CONT

SC enjoys sunbathing and swimming and the yacht moving interferes with these plans  :chuckle:

... this is one of my fav photos of the trip...

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/20150622_132805_zps14rpk8js.jpg)

SC has a beautiful suntan.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Anotherkiwi on July 15, 2015, 05:47:10 PM
Morning of Day 2 - CONT

SC enjoys sunbathing and swimming and the yacht moving interferes with these plans  :chuckle:

...

I try to stay out of the sun and entertain myself by responding to emails and posts on forums and this is one of my fav photos of the trip...

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/20150622_132805_zps14rpk8js.jpg)

I thought you guys all like your steaks medium rare!  That one's definitely overcooked.  :devil:
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: jone on July 15, 2015, 05:59:31 PM
Wonder where the little doggie is.  Hope he didn't wind up as shark bait.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: pitbull on July 15, 2015, 06:06:53 PM
I thought you guys all like your steaks medium rare!  That one's definitely overcooked.  >:D

Beautiful woman - waaay too much suntan. Does she know about skin cancer?
 
 
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: BillyB on July 15, 2015, 09:05:31 PM
Beautiful woman - waaay too much suntan. Does she know about skin cancer?



That suntan was dark. I had a friend who's uncle played at least 8 hrs of volleyball in the Californian sun and got skin cancer. It covered so much of his skin that the doctors couldn't do anything about it and he passed away in his 40's. Msmobyone, your girl likes the sun so get her the best lotion that offers the most protection.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: ML on July 15, 2015, 09:27:48 PM
How to explain the attraction someone has to another who is going to run up hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical bills for themselves and fellow taxpayers in the home country?
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on July 16, 2015, 08:34:11 AM
 :deadhorse:


This is a FSU woman with Russian / Uzbek lineage ... she absolutely loves the sun and no amount of telling her will change her mind ... she is way closer to fifty than 40, doesn't eat meat [keep it clean] smoke and drinks v.little alcohol.

I know of the dangers of skin cancer - having lived in hot places and had a scare.... STILL she doesn't listen....


Our little dog stayed in Sochi - as I didn't want him falling overboard

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-07-05%2021.45.08_zpsezn3w7yy.jpg)

Really, I do appreciate your concern.

Madam wanted me to share the photo with her hand on the tiller - being mischievous - but now thinks her 'popa' is too big  :wallbash:


(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/0e66455c-e7d4-4136-9c38-3b6f83c4d546_zpsi1j5vi4t.jpg)


Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: jone on July 16, 2015, 08:57:23 AM
We will be taking our two little dogs with us to live in St. Petersburg this summer.  Should be interesting.  They did great in Mykolaiv.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: jone on July 16, 2015, 09:38:13 AM
Moby,

Great sailing stories.  Love to hear them.  Take a small can of WD-40 with you next time you sail.  While the fix is temporary, it does help us old guys with halyards.  I spray it right on the track.  Dunno what to tell you about the auto furling of the Genoa. 

I have never sailed Lasers but used to race Butterflies and C-Scows growing up.  When I moved to California, I crewed on a Cal 40 and had leisure access to a Yankee 30.  Unfortunately, out here, I've only owned stink pots.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Boethius on July 17, 2015, 08:04:02 AM
Thanks for sharing, moby.


If Sveta doesn't have a tan in the photo with her holding her dog, her tan is not particularly deep for her colouring.



Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on July 19, 2015, 01:32:24 AM
Thanks for the comments.

Jone- sure the lack of wd-40 on board was a crime - rectified after this 'scare'  - I borrowed some from a another Scot on a yacht  ;D

Boethius  - SC's tan is probably cancelled out by the flash effect in the photo you mention - she does not dye her hair - it is bleached by the sun ..no-one believes this - even my Mum doubted it ...


Today, I went with her for a swim and left her happily doing her Lizard on a rock impersonation .. the dog and I can't stand staying out in direct sun ..I like Sochi's tree-lined streets 


Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on August 23, 2015, 02:01:25 AM
I never finished the story as we went back to Russia together and as I am not   permitted to reside full time in Russia,  I'm in the UK for a few weeks.

Started looking through the photos and remembered to finish the story...

Day 4 After the exhausting passage of the day before, we awoke - looked at each other and resolved to take it easy. The sunrise was spectacular.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1067_zpsye1fyv2b.jpg)

The water was crystal clear and I went snorkelling.. you'll note I wear a t-shirt..it isn't cold- I'm just afraid of the sun...unlike S.C.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1077_zpsjbe1nm3w.jpg)

We were too lazy to even row ashore and have a cooked breakfast and S.C made us a salad. It had been our attention to walk to an ancient sunken Byzantine city, but we were just too tired and didn't have suitable shoes for walking over stones over a long distance ..We really missed out

(http://turkishtravelblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/sunken-city-of-kekova.jpg)

In late afternoon the strong wind returned and I persuaded S.C that we could sail under the front sail, only - Genoa, and we  flew down the 'fiord's' warm waters. WE were heading for a little village with a large fort.

The wind was really strong - but as it was behind us - it was exhilarating.

The Genoa furled easily - thank goodness and I wondered how we would have a quiet night on the fixed jetties I saw jutting out from the restaurants. I had been warned that there would be a rush of waving arms to suggest we should moor up on the jetty of a particular restaurant, but only one family bothered  - so they got our biz for the night.They caught our mooring lines as SC was masterful on the helm.

The jetties were sheltered from the swell created by the wind and it was peaceful when moored up.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1092_zpsxnioq2p9.jpg)

Our yacht is the smallest one - look for the smallest mast - in the middle of the image

Dinner was Squid and salad, washed down by a beer.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1093_zpsuayqoqnb.jpg)

You'll note S.C is wearing my sweater.. it was the one night when is was 'cool' when the sun went down, in 2 weeks.




Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: BdHvA on August 23, 2015, 04:04:50 AM

I like racing Lasers - which at 56 some might say is a mug's game, but I still give the young 'uns a run for their money in a good breeze :)

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/yes...%20I%20love%20this%20sport_zpsynbv6el8.jpg)..that's me on the left - just about to unlap myself - as I've be swimming too many times - this race was subsequently abandoned as all competitors were horizontal ..

Moby is on a Laser, now an Olympic class (used as Olympic equipment) The boat out of balance before is I believe a Solo, designed again I believe by Uffa Fox.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on August 23, 2015, 05:14:23 AM
Moby is on a Laser, now an Olympic class (used as Olympic equipment) The boat out of balance before is I believe a Solo, designed again I believe by Uffa Fox.

Jack Holt

[url]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jack_Holt_(dinghy_designer)[/url

designer of many of the UK's most popular sailing dinghies

stronger coffee necessary  ;)
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: BillyB on August 23, 2015, 08:39:08 AM
The water was crystal clear and I went snorkelling.. you'll note I wear a t-shirt..it isn't cold- I'm just afraid of the sun...unlike S.C.



I wore a t-shirt too when swimming in Hawaii. Like you I told my wife I don't want to get burned by the sun but between me and you and the rest of the guys here, the real reason we do it to cover up our bulging bellies. ;D
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on August 23, 2015, 11:39:08 PM

I wore a t-shirt too when swimming in Hawaii. Like you I told my wife I don't want to get burned by the sun but between me and you and the rest of the guys here, the real reason we do it to cover up our bulging bellies. ;D

Speak for yourself..a bulging belly in a wet t-shirt doesn't bear thinking about  :D
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on August 24, 2015, 11:03:07 AM
day 5

Woke up to the sounds of Spanish voices and popped my head out to wonder who was up so early. on of the big catamarans - to moor on the same pontoon as us was heading off with the first light.

They had 'joined' us late in the evening at the restaurant and seemed keen to head off.

There was no wind to speak of an I got a shot of the fort and the drooping flag - rare during our time and waited for SC to surface.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1095_zpswb8rrm7p.jpg)

She didn't want to climb to the top of the fort - but to swim in a 'private place', where we could have breakfast, so we set off across the fiord to a place where bigger yachts couldn't go in ....

..except that catamarans draw even less than our keel and when we got their - under sail - there was the Spaniards  :chuckle:

They had taken the prime spot and we had to moor in such a way that if they wanted to leave, before us - any mooring lines - I planned to tie up between the rocks - would have to be removed. By the time I used a combo of anchors - SC had made breakfast and we took a dip, first.. The Spanish had gone ashore to check out some more Byzantine ruins.

I filmed her - after we had just swam a long way - and noted that more folk were arriving - it was v.early. It was a party of Russian in kayaks - also coming to see the ruins.. so much for our 'private cove'  ..

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1097_zpsq5fzttce.jpg)

The Cat - of course - wanted to leave and I made sure they could without 'sinking' us and we had breakfast- fresh fruit - as always.

We were heading back and the prevailing wind would be against us if we didn't make a headland by about 12 noon - when it tended to really kick in.

So, we couldn't stay and SC couldn't hang off the back as the wind was so light that we had to use the dreaded 'iron top sail to help the sails' - This was a day when she allowed the bimini - a sort of parasol over the rear of the boat - to be used.

As it transpired the wind didn't kick in until about 2 pm and the last 30 mins was hard on the wind - the boat healing - and SC was wondering why why didn't need to sit on the sides to keep her flat - so important in my little Laser. I was pleased that she was picking up tips and she helmed - rather than using the auto-pilot as we surfed into a bay.

I had an appointment at a hotel - only accessible by boat - and we arrived at 1630- the meeting was 2030 - at the restaurant

We rested and swan with the Turtles -Loggerbacks - but every time I videoed them - they would dive ..a bit like SC -  >:(

http://youtu.be/VXu52zb8uac (http://youtu.be/VXu52zb8uac)

We went ashore at 1900 - all 'dressed up' - High heel shoes - it the water proof bag - and landed at what we THOUGHT was the Hotel's steps..

Two elderly guys - who had been swimming - climbed the steps and one of them asked if we were 'expected  guests' ?...  I realised my mistake and the penalty was an invitation to join them for pre meal drinks.

They were Italians and both had made their homes in Turkey - one here in the bay and another lives in Istanbul - both knew the 'Stans intimately and also know SC's old boss ...  :o

SC doesn't really drink and had never tried Rosé - but this was a good Portuguese wine and two bottles were consumed prior to our adjourning to the restaurant. These guys were such characters and knew the people we were meeting - which made the business so much easier.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1114_zps2le78cde.jpg)
 - our host looks glum.. Perhaps he's realised that it is time to open another bottle...SC has had two glasses and probably needs the chairs to stand..NOT a drinker..like me, I cannot drink much.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1111_zps7tyqqocv.jpg)







The Hotel is owned by a Turk with a Scots wife and her cooking is legendary.

View from the dining table

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1133_zpstiaffpsf.jpg)

Our surprise host told us to be up at 0800 as his 'man' would take us to the fruit / veg market and collect / return us from our boat. So we couldn't drink too much after our presentation was complete - the best part was two orders - from the hosts and the people we had lined up for a meeting - that paid for the holiday and some...











 
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on August 24, 2015, 11:50:25 PM
''swan with the Turtles'' - excuse the typo
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on September 15, 2015, 10:22:45 AM
Day 6

Woke up at 0730 and prepared for our water taxi to Kas fruit and veg market. SC can be ready in minutes - which is a revelation to me - and our driver arrives 5 minutes early

 I admit that - for a change - it is pleasant to get somewhere fast :chuckle:

http://youtu.be/eCVoRqbm0xY (http://youtu.be/eCVoRqbm0xY)

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/SAM_1140_zpsd7fzgcsx.jpg)

We were given an hour to do our shopping for provisions and headed up into the town to look for the market. It was only 0830, but the late June sun meant the market was covered with awnings to protect the product and people.

I speak little Turkish and found Google's translate function - pre-downloaded was entertaining but helpful.

SC adores fruit and veg and I was presented with several large bags to carry back - 'garçon mode'  :chuckle: SC sauntered back while I panicked that our driver would head back without us...naturally, he wasn't on time and Madam returned before him and couldn't understand what all the 'fuss' was about.


I was 'nervous' as I had an appointment at 1000 back at the hotel and if we missed our taxi....


SC swam with the turtles and I concluded the 'deal' and we set off to moor up some quiet for lunch and the plan was to wait for the Meltemi winds to drop and make our way to the Marina and spend the last day of the charter pottering about.

Turtle time..well nearly - blink and you'll miss 'em

http://youtu.be/IHDDwzwWQWg (http://youtu.be/IHDDwzwWQWg)

One of my clients took a photo of us departing .. as you can see it was peaceful and that was the forecast.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/from%20Stephen_zpsxd6wfms7.jpg)

The wind was too light to sail, and our route took us directly into what wind there was so we used the dreaded iron top sail...the motor.  The passage was only 10 km and involved negotiating the channel between the eastern most Greek island and the Turkish coast. We had nearly reached the headland where we could turn to starboard - right - and be in the sheltered inlet to the Marina.

The wind came up without warning and shortly after we were in steep seas and it was hard to make way. I decided to 'give up' and take shelter in the lee of the cliffs off the Greek island. Larger yachts around us also turned tail and I was feeling 'clever' until the anchor - which I had left hanging - rather than stowing - decided to go over the side along with 60m of chain.

SC took the helm and I had to pull in the anchor as the boat rocked sideways and up and down - reassuring her that I did not intend to fall overboard. Luckily, there was 90m below us - as if the anchor had held... I dread to think of the consequences. I was an IDIOT and although SC thought I was a hero - at the time - I had broken just about every precaution. Wind does not come up like that in the UK and I really should have known better.

I managed to get the anchor and chain back and stowed in under three minutes and we motored the 2 km to shelter in 20 minutes - blown along.

The moment we were under the cliffs the wind and waves stopped.... SC thought it was 'magic' and we soon dropped anchor where we spent our first night.

A Greek family paddled past on a surfboard with their dog and had NO idea of the hell only 1km distant
(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-27%2016.50.31_zpsqfchdl1s.jpg)

Looks so peaceful over in Turkey..

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-27%2016.51.32_zpsu66pqmyy.jpg)


We needed to crash and slept - waking an hour before sunset ...
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on September 19, 2015, 12:25:36 AM
day 6 - continued

We awoke to the sound of an engine close by - the fishing 'fleet' was returning. We had nodded off in the cockpit and must have looked 'interesting' with arms and legs strewn in death like doses - such was the stress of the short passage.

We promptly dressed and rowed ashore in the inflatable. The wind was still strong and the sun was dropping behind the tall cliffs that offered us shelter. We reached the top of the hill and took a long flight of steps to the Mosque at the entrance to the harbour. The sun was still shining this side.

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-27%2018.40.50%202_zpsxjn5tnk0.jpg)

One of us was dressed for sun.. the other knew it would be cooler when the sun disappeared

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-27%2018.40.25_zpsopukjbfg.jpg)


The harbour of Kastellorizo is rectangular in shape and the boats moor up stern to - our vessel would have looked tiny in the company of some of the vessels present. All the hoses were painted in pastel shades and were more traditional than the modern new builds we had seen on the TR mainland.

After WW1 the French and Brits had encouraged the Greeks to land in Asia minor and the initial land gains ended up in military retreat and the Greeks having to abandon their settlements on the mainland.  Population exchanges took place and Turks from Crete and Greeks from the mainland were painful examples of the 'swap' - leaving evidence of past settlements by folk of a different ethnic background.... it is all very sad.. How the Greeks ended up getting this island and three tiny ones nearby - eludes me. But as you'll see - it has made for an interesting population make up...


Greeks tend to eat late and we had to wake up early next morning - hoping for calm conditions to get the boat back to the marina in time. So we found a fish restaurant in the middle of the harbour - and sat down - we had the choice of tables.

Now, you may have seen I tried to get a decent shot of Turtles - but they seemed to tease me - diving when I aimed the camera - not tonight ... I got 2 of them playing - right by harbour edge.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16RmUsis2r0 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16RmUsis2r0)
SC came over to see why I was 'excited' and they swam off  :chuckle:

We started to take photos of each other - hoping they would come back ..

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/2015-06-27%2020.29.42_zpsgtc00mtv.jpg)

I retain some 'Greek' from my Cyprus days - Cypriot Greek is more an evolved dialect and sounds harsher... I prefer the softer tones of 'true' Greek and was shocked by the accent I heard...it sounded REALLY Aussie ?

So, we ordered our fish and soon locals started to arrive. I asked a man if he was Australian -I took a risk as he was HUGE  - and he roared with laughter  - ''Aussie Greek mate, as are over half the *snip*s you'll meet when things liven up''  :o

It transpires that their families are from the island and come during the Aussie winter. We met folk from Melbourne Sydney and Adelaide... ???

S.C . had NO idea what we were saying - as we spoke too quickly - so we all spoke in simple English. Retsina flowed - I hadn't tried the stuff since I was 22 and it tasted better than I remembered.

The meal was great ... I had Sea Bass and S.C. said the Kalamari - Squid - was the best she had eaten.

As we ate another Turtle came close by - Those who understand Russia - please forgive my incorrect use of the second person singular and many more irregularities .. I was excited that these Turtles - were coming so close

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F45_4NgQdWY (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F45_4NgQdWY)

We couldn't 'escape' the now buzzin' atmosphere and we met 3 Lithuanians - so S.C could now converse in Russian. They lived in Turkey and had never stayed over - and I am certain they had hangovers the next day. We left them dancing to Greek music at 0030.

We had discussed the impending possibility of a 'Grexit' - the crunch day was 2 days later- but the Aussie Greeks had their money in Australian banks and there biz would keep the islands single shop and Bank going  - even if  they had to deal in Turkish Lira - which was readily accepted. They were partying like there was no tomorrow.

S.C and I made our excuses - bought some wild honey - using TR Lira - fair exchange rate - and we headed back.

We saw the duty Policeman - but decided he wouldn't be interested to process a non EU visitor and we simply said 'Kalispera sas' to the group he was taking Coffee with.

We were never bothered by immigration officials and I wonder if this island is inundated with refugees - being so close to the TR mainland.

We went to sleep - the wind was still blowing hard - the flags of the castle stiff as boards... I wondered if we'd default on our charter.

My mobile phone refused to work and I used S.C's Turkish sim to send an sms to the German lady owner that we were close by - but would try to cross the channel in the morning.

SC slept and I stayed up on deck - deciding if the wind dropped we would make a night passage ...
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Chicagoguy on September 19, 2015, 12:16:18 PM
Wonderful story and a great adventure !!
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Boethius on September 19, 2015, 01:23:31 PM
Thanks for sharing, moby.  I enjoy your posts.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Larry1 on September 19, 2015, 02:34:33 PM
Good TR. I'm enjoying the photos and videos on the water, especially of the large turtles. Also the excellent description of the wonderful seafood and fruits you and Sveta are having.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on September 21, 2015, 02:05:01 AM
Thanks to all who have posted compliments.

This was a very simple vacation - with the Euro [ edited to add; and Turkish Lira ] weak against the UK Pound - the charter of the yacht was great value. The yacht part of the story is nearing the end - and it is great to have a diary version for the future.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: Gator on September 21, 2015, 07:58:13 AM
Thanks for sharing.  SC is hot.  I like the photo of her holding the tiller while reclining.  How are her tacking skills - please show a video. 

Sailing is a delightful way to tour.   One of my business partners has a 48' boat and I have sailed with him a few times in the Caribbean and New England.  Sailing is very relaxing except for docking, anchoring, coming about in strong wind and waves - clearly I am not seaworthy.   

Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on September 21, 2015, 01:20:44 PM
Thanks for sharing.  SC is hot.  I like the photo of her holding the tiller while reclining.  How are her tacking skills - please show a video.

Thanks,Phil... Yes that particular shot was her idea...

Re 'tacking skills' - she had to take the tiller during the storm that came out of no where and when anchoring up. As there was only the two of us - no videos  ;D

She had NEVER been sailing before and was totally trusting and a brilliant crew.





Sailing is a delightful way to tour.   One of my business partners has a 48' boat and I have sailed with him a few times in the Caribbean and New England.  Sailing is very relaxing except for docking, anchoring, coming about in strong wind and waves - clearly I am not seaworthy.

Indeed, S.C. wants the 'next yacht' to have a

1/ windlass - winch for anchor
2/ roller reefing mainsail
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: BdHvA on September 21, 2015, 05:01:33 PM
Indeed, S.C. wants the 'next yacht' to have a

1/ windlass - winch for anchor
2/ roller reefing mainsail

What! No galley slave or cute stewies?
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on September 21, 2015, 11:54:43 PM
What! No galley slave or cute stewies?

Goodness, no... that would be a crowd ;D
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmobyone on October 06, 2015, 11:53:35 AM
Day 7

Woke at 0545 - not sure I had really slept and the wind was dropping ..felt it was more than safe enough to cross the channel - but did not want to put SC off sailing for life.


I started the engine, lifted the stern anchor and SC did her usual trick of waking up and being ready in seconds - quite a feat - judging from my previous experience of FSU women - hence I keep saying it :)

SC took the helm and we weighed anchor  - she had become proficient.

It took 5 minutes to reach the end of the shelter of the cliffs and we entered the channel to find the wind had completely dropped and the sea was a gentle swell.

It took us 30 minutes to cross the channel. We didn't talk much - SC was watching for dark patches of water that would mean a squall and I was tired and a little sad that this would be our last day on the waves.

We entered the inlet and we knew we would make the marina by 11 - as no matter what the wind in the open seas - it could never be that bad in the sheltered inlet.

I even opened the front sail - the Genoa - but it was useless - such was the lack of wind.

We arrived at the first anchorage -  where we had met the Scots, It was only 0730 - the water was beautifully clear and SC had her last aquarobics session and I tried to film her..

http://youtu.be/eNG2ZkwgAkk (http://youtu.be/eNG2ZkwgAkk)



Guess who forgot to connect the camera to the charger ?

The waters were so clear and we swam amongst tiny fish that ate bread crumbs we threw to them - causing the water to 'boil'.

Then we had our last al fresco breakfast. :(

(http://i1119.photobucket.com/albums/k634/Svietik/zavtrak_zpsahgg1xra.jpg)

It was time to pack, tidy up, fill up with fuel and meet the German lady owner at 1100 ...





Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmob on September 07, 2018, 03:46:03 AM
RWD123 mentioned photos and I was going to mention my personal fav and  discovered the hilarious 'censorship' by photobucket  - THE WORST photo sharing company -   re our fav photo from our first yachting trip in Turkey ..


(http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1863/42720414870_cdf5f3976c_c.jpg)
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht ( revisited )
Post by: msmob on January 02, 2019, 02:39:14 AM
My Goodness !

Photobucket had stopped sharing images uness a paid for option was chosen overnight and I've just noticed they're back working....


Happy days


Maxx2 had posted some great Georgia shots, so they'll be viewable again, too !!

http://www.russianwomendiscussion.com/index.php?topic=22265.msg496611#msg496611 (http://www.russianwomendiscussion.com/index.php?topic=22265.msg496611#msg496611)

Edit to add : Ooops - I forgot he moved to Flickr

Maxx .... Flickr is introducing a 1000 image limit, soon - so you might like to look at imgur.com (http://imgur.com)

Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht ( revisited )
Post by: John Gaunt on January 02, 2019, 04:53:13 AM
My Goodness !

Photobucket had stopped sharing images uness a paid for option was chosen overnight and I've just noticed they're back working....


Happy days


Maxx2 has some great Georgia shots, so they'll be viewable again, too !!

Ha

What’s the fixation with posting naked pics of SC?
Do you need some kind of approval from forum members?
Seriously, some screws loose somewhere
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmob on January 02, 2019, 04:55:15 AM
Interesting ... A guess as I cannot read the above post ... the ignore function works ( blissfully) perfectly if there is no quote involved ... :popcorn:
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: John Gaunt on January 02, 2019, 08:18:33 AM
Interesting ... A guess as I cannot read the above post ... the ignore function works ( blissfully) perfectly if there is no quote involved ... :popcorn:
Hmmmm, Moby posting about posts he cannot see, allegedly.
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmob on January 02, 2019, 08:51:32 AM
Not 'allegedly' ... I CAN see your posts when:

1/ they are quoted

2/ If I'm in  in preview mode, any posts of yours  can be seen below

Unfortunately, that means I now see the one I couldn't see before, so suggest you avert your eyes - as I'm trying my best to do with your posts
..

So, if any image 'upsets' you  :popcorn:

Just for you -  she has a jumper on ...

(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4703/24815350037_22b07f33a0_z.jpg)

Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: John Gaunt on January 02, 2019, 09:15:29 AM
Not 'allegedly' ... I CAN see your posts when:

1/ they are quoted

2/ If I'm in  in preview mode, any posts of yours  can be seen below

Unfortunately, that means I now see the one I couldn't see before, so suggest you avert your eyes - as I'm trying my best to do with your posts
..

So, if any image 'upsets' you  :popcorn:

Just for you -  she has a jumper on ...

(http://farm5.staticflickr.com/4703/24815350037_22b07f33a0_z.jpg)
If you want to post nekkid pics of your SO, go right ahead. Don’t be shy on my behalf.
I just question why anyone would want to?
Maybe it’s a sub conscious desire to seek approval?
Title: Re: Trip report from a yacht
Post by: msmob on January 02, 2019, 10:51:03 AM
I'm guessing JG might be asking for more interesting photos?

So, some architecture / history

(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7811/32699878008_7b62b9b05d_z.jpg)

The world's largest wooden building - north of Pattaya, Thailand

We didn't arrive by yacht - but I'm sure he won't notice / comment