Day Boat Trip Around Datça's Coves

You board in Datça harbour in the morning, and from then on the day moves at the sea's pace: the boat drops anchor in a cove, everyone swims for an hour or so, then it's on to the next one. Along the way you pass rocky headlands, hillsides of pine and olive, and small beaches that are awkward to reach by land. There's shade on board as well as room to sunbathe, so even if you're not much of a swimmer, the day slips by easily on deck.

The wind sets the route. In summer the northerly meltem whips up the sea in north-facing coves, while bays on the south coast are calmer on most days. That's why the captain decides each morning where to go, depending on the weather and the state of the sea. Kargı Bay, Ovabükü and Hayıtbükü are regular stops, but no two days are quite the same.

It's an easy-going day out that suits families, first-time visitors and anyone who simply wants a day at sea. Life jackets are kept on board; if you're bringing children, mention their ages when you book. Pack a towel, sunscreen, a hat and a light layer for the trip back. If you're prone to seasickness, sitting out on deck in the fresh air with your eyes on the horizon helps most people.