Shortly after boarding in Fethiye (southern Turkey), we were shown our private double cabin with ensuite. This was used mainly as a storage room and the weather was so hot, it was more comfortable to sleep under the stars on the front deck!

We set off for our 4 day, 3 night adventure with 5 other guests and I couldn’t believe my eyes once we’d reached our first stop: Crystal clear turquoise water perfect for swimming.

The day was spent diving off the deck, reading books, playing chess and jumping into the water again once you’d become too hot. Our only interruptions were from the captain and his deckhand ringing the bell for “breakfast!!”, “lunch!!” and “dinner!!!”

At each meal time we were treated to a feast of fresh, organic Turkish food. From freshly caught seafood, to breakfast buffets, salads and (my favourite) BBQ night where we were served freshly made kofta and marinated steak.

Everyone’s dietary needs were catered for with the majority of guests being vegetarian and I was even treated with freshly baked brownies on my birthday!

Someone remarked “how is it possible that 2 men on a boat have served us with food more spectacular than our hotels!!?”

The whole boat has such a laid back feel with an honesty system for drinks, and all meals and snacks included in the boat fare, your wallet stays in the cabin the whole time.

The following days were spent swimming, swimming and swimming – I couldn’t get enough!

I was able to finish a book (a rare luxury) and learnt how to play chess again.

Living on the Ocean is very calming and spending so much time on the water gives you no distractions or worries.

Having no wifi adds to this by forcing you to literally disconnect – this was the ultimate way to relax.

On our last day we were surprised by a treat from the main land: A small speed boat was zipping from yacht to yacht shouting “ice cream”, “ice cream”!

I couldn’t believe it!

I instantly ran to find some coins and wave down my new best friend. His ice cream was protected from the blazing sun by liquid nitrogen and was popular with all the guests on board.

When it was time to disembark, I was sadly greeted with the reality of every day life: bustling streets, shops and internet. But mainly, the realisation of just how relaxing my time on the boat had been.

With my sea legs and sunburn, I arrived at my next hotel hoping the ice cream man would visit here as well.

To book yourself on this heavenly cruise in Southern Turkey, call Rosie on (03) 5275 4583!

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The inaugural Black Sea tour was such an adventure! Northern Turkey, along the Black Sea coast, and Georgia and Armenia – what a fascinating and undiscovered part of the world.

The walk from the ‘road’ to our alpine chalet accommodation high in the Kackar Mountains.

Incredible singing and dancing troupe showing us traditional dances and music in the heart of Georgia’s wine region.

Armenia has a sad history, which is still very much evident in everyday life. However, the Armenians embrace life and we had lots of fun cooking ‘dolma’ with some local ladies, tasting local brandy and a crazy night tapping our toes in a famous jazz club until 2am!!!

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