Lively RPAYC Aegean Rally Ends in Marmaris

'The crews work out in the last race in the series on Marmaris Harbour' Lauren White

Race five from Datca to Sogut and the following lay day, ensured we had time to enjoy secluded bays and crystal clear water of the Aegean. Colours range from a deep blue to a beautiful turquoise and this encouraged us to jump in at any opportunity.

The final race in the RPAYC Aegean Rally saw eleven yachts rendezvous in Marmaris Harbour, where the Aegean meets the Mediterranean. The committee had laid a sausage course and the wind picked up early in the afternoon making for a fantastic spectacle that finally separated the close contenders.

Perfect sailing for the final race - Lauren White

Marmaris is a lively place known for its nightlife, and during the peak summer months becomes heavily populated with young travellers and yachties. If Bodrum is known as the home of Gulets, then you could definitely conclude that Marmaris is the home of yachts. There are currently four marinas in this harbour with plans now in place to build a fifth.

The final night function was held at the restaurant of Albatross marina, the home of the impeccable 11 yachts we had chartered. The crews were happy to get into the spirit of the occasion with many arriving at the function donning specialised crew shirts, traditional Turkish fez and even belly dancing gear.

While we feasted on stuffed capsicums, dolmades, salads and doner kebab we were treated to traditional Turkish dancing and, of course - belly dancing.

Traditional dance troop joins the final night fun - Lauren White

The winner of the RPAYC Aegean Yacht Rally was Peter Helm and his crew on 'Viktoria II' a Beneteau 50. Second and third place went to Garry Holder's Crew on Altea and Tim Armytage's Crew on Ankaa respectively. While there was some spirited competition during the rally, everyone always managed to have fun during the races whether they were at the head or tail end of the fleet.

Over two weeks we have travelled nearly 150 miles and in doing so have experienced some of the most beautiful and unspoilt areas that Turkey and Greece have to offer. New friendships have been formed and life long memories have been made. This is certainly a part of the world that I will be heading back to in near future.

Mariner Boating Holidays will repeat this rally in the 2009 programme of events.

Contact info@marinerboating.com.aufor more details.