Bodrum –Marti Orhaniye 

Mashona 36 34N 28 39E 

The sail down to Marti was in some ways a disappointment the winds we had been promised didn’t materialise. We had them from all points of the compass and with quite strong gusts especially off the point of Kos. Never the less everybody managed to sail at some point. 

Especial mention in the despatches for Boisbarbu who escorted in Fruit de la passion whose motor wouldn’t start. The help and the encouragement from the rest of the rally boats especially Karen on Antiuga lady who did lots of relays and La Vagabonde who helped with translation.

This was really in the sprit of the rally and all the boats clapped and hooted as they made port.

The starter motor was off away to Marramarriss within 20 mins of arriving and back fitted by 11 the next day big thanks to Marti technical services.

The first night was inter boat entertaining Kath is going to make me in future wear a sign saying DO Not feed this man any more Gin and Tonics.

We were joined here by 6 other boats making our number no 35.

We have split the group further now with Chris off Scorch taking over group ¾ its working well. 

The next day was a free day most people going in to Marmaris or relaxing around the pool I even saw some mad fools immersing themselves in the sea, definitely too cold for me. 

Marti marina in my opinion is the prettiest setting for a marina in Turkey. Situated in the Gulf of Hisaroanou in has all services.

The marina staff was excellent berthing all boats efficiently and quickly.

Last night we attended the barbeque and cocktail evening another fantastic party .A site to remember was our reverend Clarence tripping the light fantastic.

There where also there some oft the past rally participants Abracadabra, Free Flight and Stentor it was good to meet up with them and swap old rally stories.

Berit from Skinner presented the plaque and afterwards much dancing till the small hours.

The first boat left this morning about three thirty we are at the moment 18 miles from Gocek with about 12/14 knts of wind behind us, lots and lots of boats flying cruising chutes and spinnakers the colours are wonderful I hope everybody is taking lots of photos. 

Dave and Kath

Mashona (just rolling along)