Saturday, July 11. The last few days on board the yacht were bittersweet. Lots of swimming, eating, drinking and visiting. But I was very aware that the end was in close sight. On the last night, Brandie and I sat with Captain Halil and learned more about the crew. It basically sounds like they bust their ass all summer and make enough money to live all winter. I expect the wages are not great, but the tips are good. And besides, they don’t have time to spend any money!

Yesterday’s lunch spot was quite near Marmaris, where we are getting off the boat. The bay seemed to be the destination for all the Marmaris party tour boats – they have to be seen to be believed. Giant behemoths with tattered sails to look like a pirate ship – so, so tacky. We left soon after lunch and went to another bay, thankfully.

Dan and I hopped in the kayak and paddled to the island shore opposite where there was “a hotel” according to Halil. It was an all-inclusive resort and we were greeted by the two sailing instructors at the beach. Ooops! We struck up a conversation with them, told them about Vancouver, where they wondered if they could get work. In the end, they didn’t kick us out so we explored a little. Seemed like you had to pay for booze and there were a million children there so obviously geared to families. There was a mini triathlon going on – 1 mile run, short kayak, and 240 m swim. We represented Rackets and Runners well, and cheered like the pros that we are. We tried to purchase some Fanta for our shandy supply, but sadly there was none to be had.

Our captain disappeared from the boat quite late and returned very early in the morning. At breakfast we all assumed that he had gone out for a night on the town, but we found out this morning he went to the hospital with some kidney issues. I’m glad it was the last day of the trip and we were headed back to Marmaris. Poor guy, he must have felt awful!

When we docked this morning, there was a small boat in our slip. I’m sure that Captain Halil just wanted to dock the boat and get off. After about 10 minutes the owner of the small boat showed up and moved it over to make barely enough room for us. The way the captain backed the Ugur into that slip was very impressive!

Mark and I are now on the 3 hour bus ride to Fethiye. Of course there is the requisite crying baby but luckily we both had a relatively short night last night so are tired and will hopefully get some shut eye. This is quite a stark difference from where we just were, that’s for sure. From yacht to bus – luckily we’re adaptable! We’re looking forward to some more adventure!