Sunset Sailing Trip

Unlike the full-day boat trips, this one is short and unhurried: a few hours on a sailing yacht with a small group. You leave the marina in the late afternoon, and if there's enough wind the sails go up and the engine goes off. The way a yacht heels over in the breeze can surprise first-timers, but it's a perfectly normal part of sailing. On still evenings you motor instead.

On the way out you see the town's waterfront and Kumluk Beach from the sea. The skipper then anchors in a quiet cove, chosen on the day, for a swim. As the air cools you sail along the coast, watch the sunset from the water and come back into the marina as the lights come on in town. The summer meltem can blow hard on some days; when it does, the skipper may shorten the route, head for more sheltered water or reschedule the trip.

It suits couples, small groups of friends and anyone who'd like to spend the evening on the water after the heat of the day. No sailing experience is needed; if the skipper is happy for you to, you can take the helm or help trim the sails. If you're bringing children, mention their ages when you book. Space on board is limited, so a small bag is plenty: swimsuit, towel, sunscreen and a light layer for the cooler evening air.