Adventure Travel
V-Go Sail Turkey cruise – Fethiye to Kekova
If your bucket list is anything like ours, swimming with turtles in Turkey’s crystal clear waters with ancient ruins nearby, will be somewhere on that list! And what better way to explore the coast than on a V-GO Sail Turkey Cruise, with more than a dozen new friends and a great crew!
Our V-Go sailing boat in the bay at Butterfly Valley
V-Go Sail Turkey cruise – Fethiye to Kekova in 8 days
We arrived at the V-GO office in Fethiye at 4pm and as expected, could hear a high majority of Australian accents. However, we were pleasantly surprised to also discover a large group of kiwis (New Zealanders) plus a few Italians. It was V-GO’s biggest week ever, with over 90 people getting on board 5 boats and setting out for 8 days of sailing! A lot of the tourists had booked through V-Go’s partner Busabout, and we were all looking forward to the week ahead.
With no idea as to the size of our boat or of what to expect, I was wowed as I clambered aboard the large, 26m dark wooden Gulet (sailing boat) and was shown to our room with a double bed and ensuite. However, I did not admire the room for long, as being peak season, the temperature was also peaking somewhere above 30 degrees.
We quickly began making friends and as there were 19 of us on board, there were a lot of names to learn. Our tour leader Ekin, with his impressive moustache was the easiest to remember. Because, as he pointed out – his name was Nike spelt backwards! Ekin was extremely helpful, keeping us all informed about what activites were available, playing his ukulele to us, plus we even convinced him to show us our path on a proper map!
What gear is supplied by V-Go Sail Turkey?
We felt ridiculous, lugging our large bags on board. All we really needed was togs (bathers), towel, sunnies, sunblock and jandals! V-GO supplied shower towels, bedding (which, due to the heat we used for sleeping on the deck under the stars each night), snorkels, flippers and foam noodles for swimming. Some of the boats even had stand up paddle boards and kayaks.
Sneaky early morning photo of everyone sleeping on the deck
V-Go Sail Turkey Meals and Desserts
All meals are prepaid for and included in the trip. However, you will need to pay for any drinks you consume on the boat eg a beer is 9TL. Our desserts were amazing and certainly not the norm. We were extremely spoilt by Captain Sunny whose hidden talent is also designing desserts made of fruit!
Our favourite swimming and snorkelling locations with V-Go Sail Turkey
Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz): Here everyone was very quick to jump into the water. Just be careful of your cameras, sunnies and any loose items as the water is fairly deep and unless you have a free diving friend on board (like Moss), you will never see your beloved possessions again. While we were there, Moss became a treasure hunter and found Turkish money, some snorkels, deck chairs, a watch, bracelet and a go pro!!
Shark statue bay: This is not the bay’s actual name, however the location will be obvious once you see it. There is a concrete shark just over 7 meters underwater, plus there were turtles swimming about which was awesome to see! However, Moss noticed one turtle behaving a bit too friendly and discovered fishing line tangled around its fins and neck. At that moment Moss gained his new nickname – Moss Grilles (after Bear Grilles) and caught the turtle so the fishing line could be cut free.
Sunken City Bay near Kekova Island: After playing cards and having drinks as we motored to our overnight destination we then proceeded to have party in the water. The water was crystal clear and the perfect temperature! (Note: we made sure no litter was left behind, hope you will do the same!)
V-Go Sail Turkey Day excursions
On most of the days, extra activities are on offer for an additional cost. Plus, our V-Go boat was often approached by locals offering sea biscuiting, and items for sale such as ice creams and jewellery.
- Waterfall at Butterfly Valley: Once the boat has anchored in the bay, everyone has the option of paying 5TL each and venturing on a short walk of less than 15 minutes to the waterfall. If you are game enough (and strong enough) there is also a rope leading up the cliff next to the waterfall which enables you to climb even higher and to see a lot of butterflies. For more details you can read about Coles Butterfly Valley Adventure a few years ago.
- St. Nicholas Island (Santas Island): In the evening you can pay 8TL per person to explore the ruins, walk to the top of the Island and watch the sunset.
- Paragliding at the Blue Lagoon (Oludeniz): You can go paragliding off the top of the hill which is nearly 2000m (6000ft) high. It costs 225TL per person. Paragliding photos cost 80TL and the videos cost 80TL, however, if you want both they will cost 140TL. Please note that most pilots do not let you use your own camera during the gliding. Tip: Take your camera and money with you. That way if you are like us and refuse to pay for photos that you could have easily taken yourself then at least you will get some of your own pictures before take off, plus if you do as many spins and flips as I did, you will be wanting an ice cream to sweeten your stomach at the finish 🙂
- Simena Castle: A few of us braved the heat and paid the 10TL entry to the castle. The views from the top were amazing and certainly worth the sweat! Plus the path leading to the Castle has lots of women and children selling bracelets and items they have made, and yes I got sucked in and purchased some from a cute little girl!
View from Simena Castle
More towns and attractions we visited with V-Go
As well as all the amazing snorkelling locations and day excursions, we also visited Tarzan Bay where all the boys swung from a rope – like Tarzan! We also stopped in at a couple of towns including Kalkan, Demre and Kas, plus we motored past the Sunken City and Pirate Cave as unfortunately swimming is not allowed.
The Sunken City
Putting up the sails with V-Go Sail Turkey
Unfortunately, sailing is not a huge part of the trip but we did sail long enough to get a photo!
The V-Go Sail Turkey Pirate Party
The pirate party took place at Smugglers Inn in Gokkaya Bay. Everyone improvised with what ever sailor/ pirate themed clothes they happened to have and it was a great night! Entrance to the party was free and it was great to mingle with all the other V-Go/Busabout boats.
V-Go Turkish Night
On the final night of the trip we moored in Fethiye harbour, had dinner on board and then made our way to the V-Go hotel for a complimentary Turkish night. To my amusement our tour guide rigged the selection of belly dancing candidates and picked two people from our tour – one of them being Moss! The night was a good laugh and a great way to end the trip.
Accommodation in Fethiye
If you require accommodation in Fethiye before or after your boat cruise, there is plenty of accommodation to choose from. However of the four places we happened to stay at in Fethiye, we highly recommend the V-Go hotel.
V-Go Yatching & Travel Agency Review
- The team at V-Go Yatching were extremely knowledgeable as they have been sailing the route since 1997. They know all the best locations for anchoring so the water is always tempting for a swim and a splash.
- We visited all the main towns and attractions, however it was all done at a nice pace and we did not feel too rushed.
- It wasn’t all about being on a boat and drinking the entire time. Even though some people on other boats did drink their fair share of alcohol, everyone was generally interested in having a good time and not being too hungover – except for after the Pirate party of course!
- In conclusion I highly recommend V-Go Yatching if you wish to explore the coastline of Turkey.
- Cost: 8 day sail Turkey trips range from 285.00 € – 485.00 € depending on the time of year. This includes breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, but excludes drinks and extra activities such as entrance to Simena Castle and Paragliding. Note: it is also recommended to tip 3-5% of your trip cost to the crew at the end of the tour.
- V-Go are a Yatching & Travel Agency who offer many types of boat trips, private boat trips, daily tours and activities, plus they have a hotel in Fethiye.
- You can also read Coles review from 2012 about the first ever Busabout Sail Turkey adventure cruise and see how much the tour has progressed and improved over the years.
- www.bluecruisesturkey.com
Disclaimer: We were provided with a discount for the V-Go Yachting Sail Turkey cruise, however, as always our thoughts on our adventure travel blog our own.
Adventure Travel
A Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Charters: How to Choose the Right Yacht and Plan the Perfect Trip
Yacht charters offer a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations. Whether you’re looking to spend a week exploring the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, or you want to take a romantic trip to the Mediterranean, a yacht charter is an excellent option. Phuket is an excellent location to charter a yacht and is one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the world.
However, choosing the right yacht and planning the perfect trip can be a daunting task for those who are new to yacht charters. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make your yacht charter experience a success.
Consider the Size of the Yacht Needed
Yachts come in a variety of sizes, from small sailing boats to large motor yachts. Consider how many people will be traveling with you, and how much space you’ll need for your trip. You’ll also want to think about the type of activities you want to do on your trip. If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, a smaller sailing yacht may be the way to go. But if you’re looking for a more luxurious and spacious experience, a larger motor yacht may be a better choice.
- Small Sailing Yachts: These are typically 30-50 feet in length and are ideal for more intimate and adventurous trips.
- Mid-Size Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 50-80 feet in length and offer more space and amenities than small sailing yachts.
- Large Motor Yachts: These yachts are typically 80 feet or longer and offer the ultimate in luxury and comfort.
- Superyachts: These are the largest yachts, typically over 100 feet in length, and are often custom built to the highest standards.
Consider a Place to Discover
Yacht charters are available all over the world, from the Mediterranean to the Caribbean, so choose a location that appeals to you and your travel companions. Research the destinations you’re interested in, and find out what the weather will be like during your trip. You’ll also want to consider the time of year that you’re traveling, as some destinations may be more expensive during peak season.
Here are some popular yacht destinations:
Mediterranean: The Mediterranean region is a top destination for yacht charters, with its turquoise waters, stunning coastline, and rich cultural heritage. Some popular destinations include the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast in Italy, and the Greek islands.
Caribbean: The Caribbean is a popular yacht charter destination for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. Some popular islands include the British Virgin Islands, St. Martin, and Antigua.
Bahamas: The Bahamas are another popular yacht charter destination, known for its stunning crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and tropical landscapes.
Maldives: The Maldives is a group of 26 atolls in the Indian Ocean, known for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and abundant sea life.
Thailand: Thailand is known for its stunning beaches, lush tropical forests, vibrant local culture, and rich history. Some popular destinations for yacht charters in Thailand include the Andaman Sea, Phuket, and Koh Samui
beautiful beach view Koh Chang island and Tour boat for tourists seascape at Trad province Eastern of Thailand on blue sky background , Sea island of Thailand landscape
Plan Ahead
When it comes to planning the perfect trip, timing is everything. Booking your yacht charter early is key to ensuring that you get the yacht and destination that you want. Don’t wait until the last minute to book, as yachts can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. It’s also a good idea to book well in advance if you’re traveling during the holidays, as yachts tend to be in high demand during these times.
Yacht Charter Cost
Another important factor to consider when planning your yacht charter is the cost. Yacht charters can be expensive, so you’ll want to budget for your trip carefully. Consider the cost of the yacht, fuel, food, and other expenses. Some yacht charters may include some or all of these expenses, so be sure to ask about what’s included when you’re booking. You may also want to look for yacht charter deals or discounts to help save money on your trip.
Think About the Crew
Finally, you’ll want to consider the crew. Yacht charters typically come with a crew that includes a captain, chef, and other members. Consider the size of the crew, and make sure that they have the experience and skills you need for your trip. You’ll also want to make sure that the crew is friendly and professional, and that they can accommodate any special requests or needs you may have.
Final Thoughts
A yacht charter is an excellent way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations in style and comfort. With a little bit of planning and research, you can choose the right yacht and plan the perfect trip for you and your travel companions. So start exploring your options today, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Adventure Travel
Medieval Towns with German Castles Near Munich & Frankfurt
Our favorite castles in Germany near Frankfurt and Munich:
Neuschwanstein Castle is there somewhere amongst all the fog!
We were crazy enough to visit Neuschwanstein Castle on a public holiday. This meant that along with all the Asian tourists, there were an awful lot of Germans. Plus, even though we arrived by 11 am, the soonest tickets we could buy were for the German tour at 2.30 pm, as the terms in English were sold out until 4 pm. So, if you don’t have German friends at hand to translate the tour for you, we recommend booking in advance online. The castle was impressive, and the time was undoubtedly fascinating! Don’t worry, I won’t spill the beans, but the manmade Grotto room made my jaw drop!
Mespelbrunn Castle
Mespelbrunn Castle is located on a pond between Frankfurt and Wurzburg. Unfortunately, we arrived 30 minutes after its closing time of 5 pm, but it looked cool from behind the fence!
Lichtenstein Castle
Lichtenstein Castle is located on a clifftop near Stuttgart and costs 6 euros per person for a tour in German; however, they did give us a very informative written guide in English. This castle is small compared to Hohenzollern castle, but its story is fascinating. Tanks shelled it in World War II, and today you can still see the cracked mirror from where a small fragment of a tank grenade ricocheted!
Hohenzollern Castle
Hohenzollern Castle is not too far from Lichtenstein Castle. It is located on a hilltop near Hechingen, and we enjoyed the guided tour. Along with getting to wear GIANT slippers, make sure you explore the casemates and secret passages. One sign made me want to learn more. It read, “Exactly where these steps lead to is unknown. More casemates and secret passageways are likely waiting to be discovered in the heart of the mountain”!
Heidelberg Castle
Heidelberg Castle was a lot larger than we expected! Unfortunately, we had spent far too much time at the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim, so we did not have time to explore this castle. But if we get the chance, we will explore the town and its castle next time in Germany.
On our drive from Munich to Frankfurt, we also loved:
Andechs Monastery
The beer garden at Andechs Monastery was just like Oktoberfest but amongst trees and more family-friendly. The beer was cheaper, and the food was great, including the giant pork knuckle, which Moss could not finish. It was also fun walking up multiple flights of stairs to the tower’s very top.
River surfing in Munich
Rothenburg
Three hours in Rothenburg was not enough to explore this wonderful medieval town! We recommend getting your hands on a city map from the tourist information office. We enjoyed Roder Gate, walking along the wall and exploring the 17th-century spital bastion, plus Moss lost me in the Kathe Wohlfahrt Christmas shop for over half an hour, and I didn’t even buy anything!
Bamberg was a neat town with old buildings in the center of the river and had a famous smoked beer which Moss just had to try!
I’m not the hugest car or plane fanatic, but even I enjoyed the Auto & Technik Museum in Sinsheim. A highlight for me was sliding out of an airplane (from the museum’s roof)!
Don’t go out of your way to see it, but the world’s narrowest street in Reutlingen is worth a photo if you are passing through.
In Frankfurt, go to the old part of town for an apfelwein and see the Frau Rauscher statue – watch out, she spits about every 12 seconds!
The average person would Google Munich to Frankfurt and see that it only takes about 3 ½ hours depending on how fast you wish to drive on the autobahn! However, we are NOT typical. We took one look at train prices and decided that hiring a car wouldn’t cost too much more.
Suppose you’re interested in traveling to Germany for a damn good deal. In that case, plenty of tour companies have some pretty unique and affordable vacation packages to Berlin, Munich, and Bavaria.
It may be small, but this building on Trappensee Lake is classed as a water castle!
We aren’t going to tell you our exact route. Still, after surviving Oktoberfest in Munich, we did a giant zigzag to see as many castles and medieval towns as possible. So to save you doing so much driving, we have picked our favorite cities and castles. First of all, ‘Ausfahrt’ is not a destination accessible from every off-ramp! It means ‘Exit’! Another word of wisdom to keep in mind is that the autobahns with speed limits do have speed cameras… and the flash is blinding!
Adventure Travel
Running with the Bulls Video
Our shaky Running with the Bulls Video footage from the Festival de San Fermin in 2012. Experience it first hand in Pamplona. Enjoy.
We recently wrote about our life or death experience of Running with the Bulls this year at the Festival of San Fermin in Pamplona. On that run, I carried along with our GoPro video camera and tried to shoot some footage for our running with the video of the bull.
Running with the Bulls
All our travel video shooting techniques went out the window when the bulls’ hooves started to shake the ground beneath our feet.
Once we had lined up for the running with the bulls, there was no escape from it as we were walled in by apartment blocks, shopfront windows, and 3-meter high wooden barriers packed with photographers along the entire length. At one end lay the relative safety of the bull ring pulsating with the cheers of the crowd who were still partying from the night before. Behind me, a dozen wild bulls pawed the stony ground looking for freedom.
Unfortunately, I was standing in their path.
What we ended up with is below. However, I think what we filmed for our running with the bull video captures the chaos, craziness, and complete madness a lot better than if I had stood my ground.
Enjoy it and watch for the guy that nearly gets trampled to death near the beginning!
Running with the Bulls Video
Would you ever consider running with the bulls?
While we are very aware that not all people agree that the San Fermin Festival should be allowed to go ahead mainly due to animal cruelty, we think there are two sides to every story. We wrote a post about the controversy surrounding Bullfighting in Spain and the Festival de San Fermin.
We would love to hear your thoughts on the Festival de San Fermin and whether you would ever consider running with the bulls.
If you want to join the next Festival of San Fermin or any other wild festivals in Europe, such as Sail Turkey, book with our partners Busabout.
We have been wearing out our jandals (Kiwi for flip-flops) on our travel adventures around the world since 2009. We think our blog is thought provoking and a little witty. But we have been proven wrong before. Find out more about us here...
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