Thanks for the info! It's a while since I was cruising the Turkish coast and I am a little out of date. I was trying to give viewers a feel for how Turkey is compared to the rest of the Med -- Pretty nice!
Agree with you that Turkey is a fantastic cruising ground. But what I find very funny and ironic is that many British passport holders voting Brexit, did so because of force propaganda implying millions of Turks would come to the U.K. I remember the posters, all because they were told Turkey would join the EU, even though this was impossible without the U.K. agreeing. Now it seems many of these boat owners are moving their boats to Turkey, I wonder if the Turks are panicking that many Brits are coming and applying for visas to stay the summer. You really couldn’t make this up!
I think the Turks recognise the financial value of UK cruisers - It's pretty easy to get a 2 year resident visa and renew it frequently - lets you into the health system I think but certainly Turkey welcomes foreigners who have boats!
@@SailingGently I agree, Turkish people are, in my experience very nice and are more interested in reality and making money than worrying about xenophobia. But still very ironic that these retired Brexiters end up passing, some if not have their lives in Turkey sailing.
Thank you for informative videos. There is a new marina located east of Kyrenia, northern cyprus. And northern cyprus is not a part (oficially) of Turkey.
Thanks for the info Remzi - Good information - I thought N Cyprus was a possession of Turkey but clearly I have it wrong - Good to hear there is now a proper marina - I hope folks read your post
Hi, Yes I subscribe to your channel - well done - I spent 14 years in the Med a while ago 2 of which in Turkey... and of all the Med it is the nicest cruising ground IMO but as always I got bored and went to the Caribbean then East coast USA then the South Pacific Been meaning to say to you both, that assuming most of your viewers are UK or Europe when you quote numbers UK pounds or Euros would be more understandable - a pain I know but I have been frustrated occasionally when you talk Aussie dollars as I have no idea without a currency site how that relates...
@@SailingGently there are 195 countries on planet earth, each with their own currency. We are Australian and we convert, for ourselves, back to the Aussie dollar. The Euro or American dollar is not a reference point for us. As currencies they are irrelevant to us.
Sorry! Just trying to be helpful - In my experience the vast majority of people sailing in the Med are European & British... Very few Australians by comparison and whilst I subscribe -as a Brit to your channel as you remind me of me a while ago doing the same things - I get irritated when you don't convert Turkish dosh to a more recognisable currency - Love Australia - sailed into Sydney then up the Great Barrier Reef visiting Aussie friends on the way that I had met in the Caribbean and South Pacific - You come from a wonderful country - lucky you
Michael, you need to update this video a lot re Turkey. There are new restrictive anchoring regulations in many honeypot places (like Fetiye). Prices have gone through the roof, with inflation at over 50 per cent and quotes only being honoured for 24 hour to 7 days. The prices you refer to are probably near trippled today. Russians are everywhere too, driving up demand. If you check out other reviews, Turkey has an increasing and significant number of bad reviews and it is getting worse. The Setur deals have largely gone too from what I read. In peak summer, Turkey is probably worse than the Balaerics in terms of crowding/ chaos. Of course all of this does not take away the beauty of the Turquiose cost and the people.
Thank you so much for the feedback and updating... I confess I was nervous about talking about prices as things can change... I will put a note in the description And I suppose it does depend a bit on what sort of annual deal you are looking for. Mind you I'm amazed how crowed the Caribbean has become... Boating is certainly a growth industry!
Super helpful, very generous of you thanks. Do you happen to know anything about going onward east to the Black Sea - I was considering going as far as Varna in Bulgaria. Paul
Err... Yeah... No... The Turkish weather thing is not seeming quite accurate. Winters are getting way colder than they used to be. Kaş is pronounced "cash" Kaz means goose in Turkish. However Kaş means eyebrow so probably not a biggie pronunciation wise. Your booze prices are a bit off. Shit's gone weird here lately. Tuborg is 35 - 50 lira and Guinness is 60+ in a bar. Rakı is 300+ for a bottle with goodies to go with. A six pack of Efes in a market costs about 2 quid more than in the UK. My mates are always disappointed by the price of booze when they visit. Excellent info just wanted to add an on the ground update. ;)
Dave thank you so much for the update - really grateful... One of the problems of UA-cam is the only way to edit or change the info in an existing video is to take it down - edit it and then start again as if it's a totally new video - However I think people read the comments... I do hope they read yours... Actually it has been really quite cold here on the Costa del Sol on the same latitude... Climate change or just a bit of a cold winter this year... I think you are in a good place - have a great summer of 22
Another excellent video, Michael. One thing I thought it would be worth raising is that at 19:15 you state that Cyprus is part of the EU (which is correct) and that non-EU visitors will be subject to the 90-days-in-180-days rule.* My understanding is that the aforementioned non-visa rule is a common border policy of the Schengen Area and not the EU specifically. I'm guessing due to the difficulties presented by both the British Overseas Territory of the Sovereign Base Areas and, even more so, the unrecognised but de facto state in Northern Cyprus, Cyprus is not presently a member of Schengen (it is obligated by treaty to join at an unspecified future date). So, whilst Cyprus copies the 90-in-180 rule for its own non-visa entry requirements, the time spent in Cyprus and time spent in the Schengen Area does not count towards the other's stay limits.** It's possible, therefore, to spend 90 days in Cyprus then spend 90 days sailing the Greek islands and then be able to return to Cyprus. * Hence, the rules apply if you visited Iceland, Norway, Switzerland or Lichtenstein, despite them not being members of the EU and why the rules do not apply if you go to Ireland (which negotiated a permanent opt-out at the same time as the UK in order to be able to maintain the Common Travel Area with the UK and Crown Dependencies). ** As the Republic of Cyprus (like the UN and every state other than Turkey) does not recognise the state of Northern Cyprus, any time you spend in the north of the island will count towards your stay in the Republic. If you enter Northern Cyprus directly and then try to cross into Cyprus via one of the crossing points, you might be arrested for having entered the country illegally (the North's entry visas, etc. are not recognised by Cyprus).
Oliver thank you so much for the Cyprus information and the explanation of the 90/180 rule relating to non Schengen EU countries... I think, think almost all countries operate a 90 day rule - your entry visa allows you stay for 90 days... If you stay over 180 days then you are a tax resident... I think your point that it is possible to spend 90 days in Cyprus and then a further 90 days in the Greek Islands - locally to me people with Spanish residencia cards still sometimes get their passport stamped which means they theoretically overstay their Schengen allowance and could be refused entry to another EU country - Hopefully this will all become easier in the coming years when both border officials and travellers get more used to it.. Valencia is trying to institute a rule for 2nd home owner there that they can stay for up to 180 days (all winter) without penalty. - I am grateful to you for the info you posted and hope viewers who are serious about re-locating their boats to the area read it!
Very informative and interesting, thankyou. I found that I loved Turkey and was going to buy a large Gulet as a charter yacht until I found out what the Greeks were going to charge me to berth it down there. For the size of it 30k Euros for a 3 day pass minimum. No wonder the boat was on the cheap. Am envious of your lifestyle, and anytime you'd like a deckhand, feel free to contact me, as I miss the ocean life. Cheers!!!
Greeks charge like angry bulls for almost everything I think Rex... I will remember you if I need crew - bit undecided about this summer at the moment!
Long time since I was last there but I either used the anchorage before the big bridge or went in the marina on the left. So pleased you enjoyed the videos. Thank you for watching
Are there any free and fully wind-protected anchorages in Southern France, Liguria or Balearic where one could leave the boat unattended during the winter?
These 3 are some of the most expensive and heavily boat populated areas in the Med. Big gales in winter... A marina which has cheap winter rates nearby is Almirimar - Spain
As a new boat owner and new to the Med your information is invaluable. Thank you so much for taking the time to put together these videos and sharing your experience. ⛵
There is a large liveaboard community in Agios Nikolaos. We spend 2 years there and it is very nice. Also, you do not have the pay the cruising tax when your boat is "out of service" meaning when you don't sail.
Thank you for that Soren - I didn't know - I just find any sort of tax on just cruising not very fair and I believe illegal under EU legislation but worst of all are the officials although Agios Nikolaos was an exception when I passed through
@@SailingGently You are welcome. By the way to be "Out of Service" you have to deposit the boat papers with the Port Police and prove you are not sailing. This can be done by Marina documentation of being permanently docked or on the hard. We have sailed in Greece for 2 years (2016 - 2018) and found Port Police a mixed experience, but mostly friendly and helpful. Generally we never enter marinas in Greece, but occasionally go to a town quay in the small Islands.
@@soren1412 Thank you for that info Soren. I will include it in my next one that includes Corfu... It was a while ago that I cruised the Greek islands and maybe the 'authorities' have changed - but back then compared to everywhere else they were pretty awful! Avoiding backing up to quays is probably the way to go!
Hi Michael! Your enthusiasm for Turkey has us rethinking our cruising plans for next summer. Question for you: if one were to leave their boat from end of October to May in one of the Turkish marinas--would you recommend hauling out for the duration or leaving the boat in the water? Any pros and cons? Thank you.
Josef, I have always believed that hauling the boat in winter enables the hull to dry out, avoids the possibility of damage if there are exceptionally high winds pushing her against the pontoon/quay and the risk of a hull fitting developing a slow leak.. against that is that you probably need rent a studio near the yard whilst you get her ready to splash again.... Having said that I have not hauled my boat for the last two winters when I have been some 2000k from her because of circumstances - I think I would worry less if she were on the hard
This was the most anticipated episode of the series as I've been in love with Greece since my first visit there when I was only 4 years old. Your take on cruising there was not entirely a surprise I suppose, but still, I wish the reality were a little different. The 1200 euro yearly cruising tax was a shock - do you know whether this applies to Greek registered vessels? We may eventually relocate to a Greek island, in which case I imagine we might be able to register our vessel as a Greek one. Turkey was an eye-opener, and perhaps a good option for us because the Greek island we are thinking of is not too far from Turkey. Thanks again for a great, info-dense video. You are a legend.
Malk hi, I confess I don't know the rules for Greek registered boats but it would be worth checking what other issues go with it. For example in Spain if you decide to register your boat as a Spanish craft then you are required to take official tests, courses and practical tests, all in Spanish plus your boat must conform to all the equipment rules of Spain... To a lesser degree this is true of France as well... In both cases you need to be a legal resident and registered for world wide tax .... How it works in Greece would be worth of investigation... As you say Turkey is nearby...
@@SailingGently Thank you! The potential side effects of the cure sound like they might be far worse than the orignal ailment... 1200 euros a year is well worth it if I can avoid those sorts of requirements. I'll look into it. Mind you, registering our vessel in Portugal where we reside sounds like it might be accompanied by similar headaches related to tests in the Portuguese language: I'm ashamed to admit we have not yet become proficient speakers. Conclusion: more research required... there's sure to be a solution somewhere! All the best!
Turkey is technically not a muslim country - ataturk founded it as a secular country although it has a Muslim majority, it also has a 90/180 day limit on its tourist visas.
Tom thank you for that. I very much had the impression that Turkey was a Muslim country during my time there but indeed perhaps I should have said mainly Muslim.. Almost every country in the world has a 90 day limit on their tourism visas and of course if you stay longer than 180 days you are a fiscal tax resident automatically - However they do seem very keen to allow people to cruise extensively with residents visa's for two years which are renewable - I agree with all you write but Turkey is a particularly welcoming country for boat owners
we need to focus on the sialing rather then religion..i dont have to share my prayer matt with anyone on my boat.youre in my heart your in my soul .iam sailing iam sialing home again cross the sea .
Thank you so much for this. I've always been hesitant about Turkey given the political direction they're going. But no doubt it is a magical country that should definitely be considered.
@@SailingGently completely disagree with you,just take a look at the recent reports about human rights violations.It is so stable….that if you dare say something against Erdogan you end up in jail in a jiffy.Of course you may not care about these things,important is to have a jolly good day..nice thinking,my compliments(obviously i am being very sarcastic)
@@AZ-vg6li Yes of course you are right and I stand corrected but in the holiday resorts and marina areas the country is pretty safe and stable so long as you don't get into politics - The difficulty for us Brits and others is that we do not always understand how countries with other cultures operate - the Arab Spring encouraged by western powers has created a bit of a mess - but excuse me - Politics - Anchors and Sex are all subjects with very diverse and often fixed points of views :-)
@@SailingGently A very valid point of view…for politics anchors and sex.But when blatant human rights violations are present,as a member of society,I personally prefer to consider further.Simply put,in my opinion,politics and human rights violations are …not the same thing.In any case i do understand this is a marina presentation and as such is very well done.Thanks
I like your informative videos but this time you are not entirely correct when it comes to Greece. You only have to pay the tax if you are in water. You also do not have to pay if you are in harbour and leave your documents to the harbour police.
Jonas thank you for that. l was not aware of those exemptions.. I cruised the islands for a year then got out but in those days the cruising tax was a lot less... I went to Turkey then came back and left the boat near Athens hauled out for a winter before heading for France
@@SailingGently Great, I will be it´s first customer!. Also if you do any private 121 consultations (by the hour) on Med sailing guidance around Turkey and Spain, would be very interested in booking your services.
Steve I don't but I would be happy to do a zoom call with you if that helps - I try not to monetise my sailing stuff beyond advertising and selling my books. www.gentlesailing.com
@@SailingGently Ah, a glass of wine, your dulcet tones make a perfect afternoon - not to mention I learn more things about sailing in the northern Hemisphere, especially the Med, than a lifetime of sailing might teach ... it's a cruel world.
Not aware of a problem in Turkey except on the Syria boarder and that's a long way to the east from the main cruising ground - most want to get to the EU I think
I keep my boat in Turkey for 1.5 year already... I agree the service in marinas is good but I'm not so exciting about sailing in Turkey because it's mostly coastal sailing... I really miss numerous islands like in Greece... yeah, here is the fan of Greek islands )) Thank you for you videos! Interesting as all of them
Morten thank you for your comments - and I understand - I spent time in the Greek Islands before moving on to Turkey - then eventually got bored there and moved to the Caribbean - I think you and I both have pretty lows boredom thresholds. So pleased you liked the video
Mr Briant, i can just predict that you are going to attract many Greek followers. But the contents of your videos are interesting, richly and warmly depicted, and honest with your practical useful advice and personal experiences and biases. Still do keep up this very good and friendly reporting. JLR.
As some body that is leaving our full time birth to start cursing in 4 WEEKS! (flip flop between excited and terrified daily) this series has been wonderful. Our plan this year is to spend most of the summer on the south coast of the UK before heading down to Morocco (over our 90 days allowance) for Christmas time so we can start afresh into the med next year. I am hoping that we will be able to purchase extra time on our visa by that point but looking forward to your Tunisia video coming up as a stop off to reset our 90/180 clock!
Lovely video and great information. Many thanks. I started purchasing your books too and they are just as informative and well laid out. We welcome all visitors in Turkey and as far as officialdom goes (as I am a part of it too) we do like to take care of our guests who end up attracting more visitors. We appreciate that their visit to Turkey is a choice, not an obligation, therefore we try to walk the extra mile in making them feel welcome. After all, as any business person would agree that the best business is repeat business, we welcome all bona fide visitors who might lead to a good word among their families, friends, acquaintances, and yes, social media followers. It does not only make good business sense for the tourism industry, but also hospitality is ingrained in our national character, a big part of our culture and upbringing, if you like. So, while your praise for Turkey and its people, its officials may sound surprising for many, I am merely happy that our habitual welcoming attitude towards our visitors and guests doesn't go unnoticed. Thank you again. Cheers!
Avni hello, I always say what I think and indeed being in a boat in Turkey was the highpoint of my first 4 years in the Med! So pleased you like the channel and my books... Thank you for watching
Great information, well presented. I have commented on your videos previously, mostly about places I visited by boat myself and am no less impressed with this part of your series. As indicated, I was never in Turkey by boat but spent quite some time there (and through) as a long distance truck driver and agree that Turkish people are among the most hospitable, generous people I have ever met. One matter that I will add and that may be somewhat controversial here is politics. I would have serious problems to support the current Turkish regime with my good money, when at least some portion of fees, charges and taxes buoy a despot like Erdogan.
Peter thank you for that. (I used to have a class 1 but never got to Europe - reserved for kings of the road!) I really have no political opinions any more as since the Arab spring a load of countries have dumped their despotic rulers and ended in chaos ... But that's a political statement - Sorry! You could also argue that a lot of local small businesses get their livelihood from the international tourism - So difficult but I take your point and hope others read it.
Unpatiantely was waiting to watch your new episode and yes with joy and very much interests , many many thanks Mike for your valuable informations you do provide us. cheers from Zürich
Hi Michael. I've been following this series with great interest. I thought you'd like to know that your website is looking a little worse for wear today, none of the pictures appear to be there.
Interesting and informative - thank you. You're point on holding tanks made me wonder (as an aspiring to-be cruiser one day!) - what is the arrangement if you are moored over winter in a marina in terms of holding tank emptying? Are you expected to go out to sea or is there some facility to empty in marinas?
Phil hi, Almost all marinas have a pump out facility these days... From your holding tank there is a tube to a deck fitting which is universal for all holding tanks. Glad you enjoyed the video
I've been following this series to dispel my theory that sailing in the Med is hugely expensive. Seems like Turkey is the place to be. Would you recommend buying a boat there, as compared to other Med/UK locations, with regard to value for money and modestly priced ($30,000) availability?
@Encourage Solutions, if you want to buy a boat in the Med just go the marinas which are not close to an airport or off the beaten track. Nobody wants to buy a boat there, so the prices remain low. Same goes for Portugal on the Atlantic side, significant price drops there. Turkey is probably the same deal, saw some videos online of people buying in Turkey nice boats for a good price. I bought mine in Croatia, but not via a broker, simply via the online (in Croatian language) websites. That is where the locals offer their boats, prices are much lower and no pressure from sales happy brokers. Good luck with your search.
I would agree with all Dave writes - The brokers in Almirimar have some good deals - It's a place people go to when they have fallen out of love with boating so there are deals around
In the past when I first sailed in the are there were maybe half a dozen marinas now upwards of 20 I think. It is a stable country Alex and as safe as most of Europe. They appear to welcome yachts and tourists with open arms and will look after them if only to protect their reputation
Thanks so much for the info ! We are currently in Corfu, Greece with our boat, but seeing your report on Turkey definitely makes us want to go there. Just for information, am currently paying 6000 euro per year in my marina (16 mtrs) and on top of that the cruising tax (1034 euro, if you pay for the whole year at once you get a discount). Good part about the cruising tax is that you don't need to pay for the months you are not in the country, you just 'immobilize' your boat at the port authority and you are done. But, that only makes sense if you only take the boat out for a couple of months each year, so not like us living 6 to 7 months per year on the water and after that every now and then during the weekend.
Dave hello, Glad it made you like the idea of Turkey - I loved the area... Thank you also for the info on Gouvia (how is the weather there in winter?) and about not paying the tax when not on board.. I will include that info in the next video. Grateful for all the feedback
@@SailingGently Corfu is usually quite reasonable in the winter time, but last week it was freezing cold. It basically varies a lot, apparently next week it should be 15 degrees again during day time. With regard to the tax, you don't need to pay the tax if the boat is out of the water or if the owner is not in the country (that is according to the official rules). However, you can 'immobilize' your boat if you know for sure you are not going out on the water. If you do go out after immobilizing your boat and they catch you...........you are looking at a 1200 euro fine, not worth the gamble. As for the discount, if the boat will be in Greece all year long and you pay your tax prior to the end of January you get 20 % for being in Greece and 10 % for the year discount. You do need to show proof however that you paid. I agree it is a hefty tax, but since that you can basically anchor wherever you want and the ports cost next to nothing (7.50 euro per day) it is acceptable. If you would go to Croatia then it really becomes interesting. Marina's where you pay 12.000 euro per year (e.g. Rovinj) for a 16 mtr boat and anchoring is mostly forbidden. You have to use a buoy if they are in the water and they happily charge you 60 or 70 euro for that per night, with no guarantee that the buoy has been maintained at all. Ports and marina's alike cost a bl++dy fortune, could get up to 140 euro per night in some locations and you are not allowed to anchor anywhere close. In all, for us, compared to Croatia, Greece is almost heaven on earth and now you told us Turkey is even better ! 😀👍
@@davedavids9619 Thank you for that information Dave. I am grateful - the weather here in the Costa del Sol was similar to yours last week and will heat up - is heating up this week... My Croatia experience was brief but for a flotilla type holiday probably fine but not full time for all the reasons you state... I am sure you will will enjoy Turkey! Do you know aviator Chris and Jac who also have a boat in Gouvia?
What location would you suggest, or have personal experience from, if I intentionally put the boat (40+ ft) on the hard for some extensive refit, like a couple of months during the winter season, not too expensive and with decent access to chandleries?
Not sure what area you are talking about Sgt but Almirimar is excellent - personal experience - it has all the trades and British run chandler and not expensive. Or La Rochelle in France Atlantic coast.
@@SailingGently Thanks, Michael. It was kind of an open-minded question - just not to limit your answers. Yes, Almirimar seems popular by many cruisers. I'm currently searching for a used 40+ ft sailboat, and I expect it to be some mandatory fixes before cruising in a broader sense. I am asking because where you buy the boat may be affected by the haul-out facilities close buy. Just my 2c. Cheers.
@@Cptnbond There is no boat without issues and it's certainly sensible to be in a good haul out area... With Brexit if you are a brit you and in a EU port you need to buy from EU chandlers like the excellent German SVB. Good luck with your search
Hi Michael, Thanks. Enjoy listening as usual. I was wondering about winds in Turkey. Watching Sailing ABSea, who is residing in Turkey for their 2nd year, they seem to have alot of exposed anchorage complaints or maybe its just where/when they have chosen. Was curious about your experiences.
I watch them too and you must remember this is only their 2nd year I think with a boat... I never had issues in Turkish waters partly because there are always ports of refuge close by. My experience was excellent anchorages with good holding and as well protected as up want to make them - the place you choose
@@SailingGently Its great to hear that the Turkish coast isnt too windy and the anchorages can be fairly protected. Turkey is top of our list so its nice to hear you confirm your positive experience. Yes, I believe its the end of their first year. I have grown up sailing the pacific coast so feel quite out of our depth in the Med. Just circling the idea for now. Your series is very helpful and looking forward to the book. Thanks!
@@Jmcivor777 You will enjoy the Med - so many places and countries to sail to compared with USA west coast - most of it is really good - not challenging at all in summertime and beautiful places like Turkey which is so easy to enjoy - come on over!
Unfortunately you are very biased against Greece. Perhaps your did had some bad experiences in Greece but you should be more objective. You forgot to mention that all these old remnants in Turkey are Greeks... Generally I do find your videos very informative but not this one.
Mike i'm sorry to have offended you and indeed I think Greece is a beautiful country and I've had some good times there BUT the marine/port officials are awful people compared to others world wide doing the same job. I am sure the Greek authorities do not know how rude and unpleasant almost all of them are! And maybe if enough people like me make it public then maybe something will change. I remember going to clear out of a port very early in the morning so I had a chance to get to my destination before dark and the port police guy refused to do my paperwork until the TV program he was watching finished half an hour later... and then was rude!
i think relations between turkey and greece are going to improve .so i will visit greece regardless of what micheal said..Sea fairers are always doing there own thing when at sea.
thanks alot for sharing all this great content. I am definitely shortlisting Turkey now and will visit as soon my 3 year old allows...
Turkey is good value for money and very welcoming. Enjoy your visit Gary - sure the 3 year old will love it!
Really useful, interesting and informative, thank you. Look forward to the next in the series.
thank you Matthew - so pleased it is useful
Thank you for a very informative series of videos.
Glad you liked it Joseph - thank you for watching
Thanks for this review. There are quite a few marinas east of Fethiye. Finike, Alanya, Antalya etc. wecovervwintered in Alanya one year.
Thanks for the info! It's a while since I was cruising the Turkish coast and I am a little out of date. I was trying to give viewers a feel for how Turkey is compared to the rest of the Med -- Pretty nice!
Thanks for all the information Mike very helpful
Glad to help Billy. Pleased you liked it
Very enjoyable. You've convinced me to visit Fetiye. Your 'travel agent' deviation is very helpful too.
Great to hear! I was afraid I had come on a bit strong but it is a very welcoming and beautiful place to sail!
Yes, i can confirm this. I live as expat in Fethiye. However, i do not own a boat yet... hopefully i ll get me one very soon👍🏿.
The Greeks know how to fleece better then any other country
They certainly know lots of inventive ways to create a tax on foreigners..
Sold! I'm going to Turkey!
Well done - really good place compared to so many other places in the Med
A joy to watch as always. Thank you Michael.
Glad you enjoyed it Stephen - thank you for watching
Informative and well presented as always Michael! Thank you.
Really pleased you like it - thank you for watching
Agree with you that Turkey is a fantastic cruising ground. But what I find very funny and ironic is that many British passport holders voting Brexit, did so because of force propaganda implying millions of Turks would come to the U.K. I remember the posters, all because they were told Turkey would join the EU, even though this was impossible without the U.K. agreeing. Now it seems many of these boat owners are moving their boats to Turkey, I wonder if the Turks are panicking that many Brits are coming and applying for visas to stay the summer. You really couldn’t make this up!
I think the Turks recognise the financial value of UK cruisers - It's pretty easy to get a 2 year resident visa and renew it frequently - lets you into the health system I think but certainly Turkey welcomes foreigners who have boats!
@@SailingGently I agree, Turkish people are, in my experience very nice and are more interested in reality and making money than worrying about xenophobia. But still very ironic that these retired Brexiters end up passing, some if not have their lives in Turkey sailing.
Thank you for informative videos. There is a new marina located east of Kyrenia, northern cyprus. And northern cyprus is not a part (oficially) of Turkey.
Thanks for the info Remzi - Good information - I thought N Cyprus was a possession of Turkey but clearly I have it wrong - Good to hear there is now a proper marina - I hope folks read your post
@@SailingGently Northern Cyprus is occupied territory according to the UK government,and not only.
Excellent stuff as always. Turkey certainly ticks all my boxes. Off to your website to check out your trip. 👍
Please do! It was a good trip - I had a lovely couple of years in Turkey a long while ago
We've been making videos about Turkey for 3 years. If you are considering Turkey you'll find many helpful nuggets in each episode.
Hi, Yes I subscribe to your channel - well done - I spent 14 years in the Med a while ago 2 of which in Turkey... and of all the Med it is the nicest cruising ground IMO but as always I got bored and went to the Caribbean then East coast USA then the South Pacific
Been meaning to say to you both, that assuming most of your viewers are UK or Europe when you quote numbers UK pounds or Euros would be more understandable - a pain I know but I have been frustrated occasionally when you talk Aussie dollars as I have no idea without a currency site how that relates...
@@SailingGently there are 195 countries on planet earth, each with their own currency. We are Australian and we convert, for ourselves, back to the Aussie dollar. The Euro or American dollar is not a reference point for us. As currencies they are irrelevant to us.
Sorry! Just trying to be helpful - In my experience the vast majority of people sailing in the Med are European & British... Very few Australians by comparison and whilst I subscribe -as a Brit to your channel as you remind me of me a while ago doing the same things - I get irritated when you don't convert Turkish dosh to a more recognisable currency - Love Australia - sailed into Sydney then up the Great Barrier Reef visiting Aussie friends on the way that I had met in the Caribbean and South Pacific - You come from a wonderful country - lucky you
Excellent information in here.
Thanks for your knowledge
My pleasure! So pleased it was useful
Excellent content. Many thanks for sharing. Greetings from Turkiye!
Thank you Murat, Very pleased you liked the video! Greetings from Boulogne in France
Michael, you need to update this video a lot re Turkey. There are new restrictive anchoring regulations in many honeypot places (like Fetiye). Prices have gone through the roof, with inflation at over 50 per cent and quotes only being honoured for 24 hour to 7 days. The prices you refer to are probably near trippled today. Russians are everywhere too, driving up demand. If you check out other reviews, Turkey has an increasing and significant number of bad reviews and it is getting worse. The Setur deals have largely gone too from what I read. In peak summer, Turkey is probably worse than the Balaerics in terms of crowding/ chaos. Of course all of this does not take away the beauty of the Turquiose cost and the people.
Thank you so much for the feedback and updating... I confess I was nervous about talking about prices as things can change... I will put a note in the description And I suppose it does depend a bit on what sort of annual deal you are looking for. Mind you I'm amazed how crowed the Caribbean has become... Boating is certainly a growth industry!
Super helpful, very generous of you thanks. Do you happen to know anything about going onward east to the Black Sea - I was considering going as far as Varna in Bulgaria. Paul
Paul hi, Sorry, I really can't help. The Black sea was one of the places I would have liked to explore but never got round to!
Michael
Err... Yeah... No... The Turkish weather thing is not seeming quite accurate. Winters are getting way colder than they used to be. Kaş is pronounced "cash" Kaz means goose in Turkish. However Kaş means eyebrow so probably not a biggie pronunciation wise. Your booze prices are a bit off. Shit's gone weird here lately. Tuborg is 35 - 50 lira and Guinness is 60+ in a bar. Rakı is 300+ for a bottle with goodies to go with. A six pack of Efes in a market costs about 2 quid more than in the UK. My mates are always disappointed by the price of booze when they visit.
Excellent info just wanted to add an on the ground update. ;)
Dave thank you so much for the update - really grateful... One of the problems of UA-cam is the only way to edit or change the info in an existing video is to take it down - edit it and then start again as if it's a totally new video - However I think people read the comments... I do hope they read yours... Actually it has been really quite cold here on the Costa del Sol on the same latitude... Climate change or just a bit of a cold winter this year... I think you are in a good place - have a great summer of 22
Another excellent video, Michael.
One thing I thought it would be worth raising is that at 19:15 you state that Cyprus is part of the EU (which is correct) and that non-EU visitors will be subject to the 90-days-in-180-days rule.* My understanding is that the aforementioned non-visa rule is a common border policy of the Schengen Area and not the EU specifically. I'm guessing due to the difficulties presented by both the British Overseas Territory of the Sovereign Base Areas and, even more so, the unrecognised but de facto state in Northern Cyprus, Cyprus is not presently a member of Schengen (it is obligated by treaty to join at an unspecified future date). So, whilst Cyprus copies the 90-in-180 rule for its own non-visa entry requirements, the time spent in Cyprus and time spent in the Schengen Area does not count towards the other's stay limits.** It's possible, therefore, to spend 90 days in Cyprus then spend 90 days sailing the Greek islands and then be able to return to Cyprus.
* Hence, the rules apply if you visited Iceland, Norway, Switzerland or Lichtenstein, despite them not being members of the EU and why the rules do not apply if you go to Ireland (which negotiated a permanent opt-out at the same time as the UK in order to be able to maintain the Common Travel Area with the UK and Crown Dependencies).
** As the Republic of Cyprus (like the UN and every state other than Turkey) does not recognise the state of Northern Cyprus, any time you spend in the north of the island will count towards your stay in the Republic. If you enter Northern Cyprus directly and then try to cross into Cyprus via one of the crossing points, you might be arrested for having entered the country illegally (the North's entry visas, etc. are not recognised by Cyprus).
Oliver thank you so much for the Cyprus information and the explanation of the 90/180 rule relating to non Schengen EU countries... I think, think almost all countries operate a 90 day rule - your entry visa allows you stay for 90 days... If you stay over 180 days then you are a tax resident...
I think your point that it is possible to spend 90 days in Cyprus and then a further 90 days in the Greek Islands - locally to me people with Spanish residencia cards still sometimes get their passport stamped which means they theoretically overstay their Schengen allowance and could be refused entry to another EU country - Hopefully this will all become easier in the coming years when both border officials and travellers get more used to it.. Valencia is trying to institute a rule for 2nd home owner there that they can stay for up to 180 days (all winter) without penalty. - I am grateful to you for the info you posted and hope viewers who are serious about re-locating their boats to the area read it!
Very informative and interesting, thankyou. I found that I loved Turkey and was going to buy a large Gulet as a charter yacht until I found out what the Greeks were going to charge me to berth it down there. For the size of it 30k Euros for a 3 day pass minimum. No wonder the boat was on the cheap. Am envious of your lifestyle, and anytime you'd like a deckhand, feel free to contact me, as I miss the ocean life. Cheers!!!
Greeks charge like angry bulls for almost everything I think Rex... I will remember you if I need crew - bit undecided about this summer at the moment!
Lovely as usual!
Just came away from Greece after sailing for 4 years everywhere. Heading to Lisbon, have any hints?
Long time since I was last there but I either used the anchorage before the big bridge or went in the marina on the left. So pleased you enjoyed the videos. Thank you for watching
Are there any free and fully wind-protected anchorages in Southern France, Liguria or Balearic where one could leave the boat unattended during the winter?
These 3 are some of the most expensive and heavily boat populated areas in the Med. Big gales in winter... A marina which has cheap winter rates nearby is Almirimar - Spain
As a new boat owner and new to the Med your information is invaluable. Thank you so much for taking the time to put together these videos and sharing your experience. ⛵
Glad it was helpful Wendy. I hope you have a wonderful summer in the Med this year - well done on your new boat!
If it walks like a duck , looks like a duck and quacks like a duck ? 🤔 . On the other hand , Turkey looked terrific !
It truly is Christopher... Lovely place to cruise
There is a large liveaboard community in Agios Nikolaos. We spend 2 years there and it is very nice. Also, you do not have the pay the cruising tax when your boat is "out of service" meaning when you don't sail.
Thank you for that Soren - I didn't know - I just find any sort of tax on just cruising not very fair and I believe illegal under EU legislation but worst of all are the officials although Agios Nikolaos was an exception when I passed through
@@SailingGently You are welcome. By the way to be "Out of Service" you have to deposit the boat papers with the Port Police and prove you are not sailing. This can be done by Marina documentation of being permanently docked or on the hard. We have sailed in Greece for 2 years (2016 - 2018) and found Port Police a mixed experience, but mostly friendly and helpful. Generally we never enter marinas in Greece, but occasionally go to a town quay in the small Islands.
@@soren1412 Thank you for that info Soren. I will include it in my next one that includes Corfu... It was a while ago that I cruised the Greek islands and maybe the 'authorities' have changed - but back then compared to everywhere else they were pretty awful! Avoiding backing up to quays is probably the way to go!
Very very useful episodes thank you 😊
Thank you Marcel - glad it was useful
Hi Michael! Your enthusiasm for Turkey has us rethinking our cruising plans for next summer. Question for you: if one were to leave their boat from end of October to May in one of the Turkish marinas--would you recommend hauling out for the duration or leaving the boat in the water? Any pros and cons? Thank you.
Josef, I have always believed that hauling the boat in winter enables the hull to dry out, avoids the possibility of damage if there are exceptionally high winds pushing her against the pontoon/quay and the risk of a hull fitting developing a slow leak.. against that is that you probably need rent a studio near the yard whilst you get her ready to splash again.... Having said that I have not hauled my boat for the last two winters when I have been some 2000k from her because of circumstances - I think I would worry less if she were on the hard
@@SailingGently thank you for your thoughtful reply. Dry dock it is!
This was the most anticipated episode of the series as I've been in love with Greece since my first visit there when I was only 4 years old. Your take on cruising there was not entirely a surprise I suppose, but still, I wish the reality were a little different. The 1200 euro yearly cruising tax was a shock - do you know whether this applies to Greek registered vessels? We may eventually relocate to a Greek island, in which case I imagine we might be able to register our vessel as a Greek one. Turkey was an eye-opener, and perhaps a good option for us because the Greek island we are thinking of is not too far from Turkey. Thanks again for a great, info-dense video. You are a legend.
Malk hi,
I confess I don't know the rules for Greek registered boats but it would be worth checking what other issues go with it. For example in Spain if you decide to register your boat as a Spanish craft then you are required to take official tests, courses and practical tests, all in Spanish plus your boat must conform to all the equipment rules of Spain... To a lesser degree this is true of France as well... In both cases you need to be a legal resident and registered for world wide tax .... How it works in Greece would be worth of investigation... As you say Turkey is nearby...
@@SailingGently Thank you! The potential side effects of the cure sound like they might be far worse than the orignal ailment... 1200 euros a year is well worth it if I can avoid those sorts of requirements. I'll look into it. Mind you, registering our vessel in Portugal where we reside sounds like it might be accompanied by similar headaches related to tests in the Portuguese language: I'm ashamed to admit we have not yet become proficient speakers. Conclusion: more research required... there's sure to be a solution somewhere! All the best!
Turkey is technically not a muslim country - ataturk founded it as a secular country although it has a Muslim majority, it also has a 90/180 day limit on its tourist visas.
Tom thank you for that. I very much had the impression that Turkey was a Muslim country during my time there but indeed perhaps I should have said mainly Muslim.. Almost every country in the world has a 90 day limit on their tourism visas and of course if you stay longer than 180 days you are a fiscal tax resident automatically - However they do seem very keen to allow people to cruise extensively with residents visa's for two years which are renewable - I agree with all you write but Turkey is a particularly welcoming country for boat owners
we need to focus on the sialing rather then religion..i dont have to share my prayer matt with anyone on my boat.youre in my heart your in my soul .iam sailing iam sialing home again cross the sea .
Great info! Thanks once more.
Thank you for watching Peter - I have just published Ep 6
Thanks for another brilliant informative video as always.
Glad you enjoyed it Jamie - thank you for watching
Thank you so much for this. I've always been hesitant about Turkey given the political direction they're going. But no doubt it is a magical country that should definitely be considered.
I think it's a very stable country and politically OK.. I would not worry about having my boat based there - and it truly is a lovely cruising ground
@@SailingGently completely disagree with you,just take a look at the recent reports about human rights violations.It is so stable….that if you dare say something against Erdogan you end up in jail in a jiffy.Of course you may not care about these things,important is to have a jolly good day..nice thinking,my compliments(obviously i am being very sarcastic)
@@AZ-vg6li Yes of course you are right and I stand corrected but in the holiday resorts and marina areas the country is pretty safe and stable so long as you don't get into politics - The difficulty for us Brits and others is that we do not always understand how countries with other cultures operate - the Arab Spring encouraged by western powers has created a bit of a mess - but excuse me - Politics - Anchors and Sex are all subjects with very diverse and often fixed points of views :-)
@@SailingGently A very valid point of view…for politics anchors and sex.But when blatant human rights violations are present,as a member of society,I personally prefer to consider further.Simply put,in my opinion,politics and human rights violations are …not the same thing.In any case i do understand this is a marina presentation and as such is very well done.Thanks
I like your informative videos but this time you are not entirely correct when it comes to Greece. You only have to pay the tax if you are in water. You also do not have to pay if you are in harbour and leave your documents to the harbour police.
Jonas thank you for that. l was not aware of those exemptions.. I cruised the islands for a year then got out but in those days the cruising tax was a lot less... I went to Turkey then came back and left the boat near Athens hauled out for a winter before heading for France
@@SailingGently a lot has changed in Greece recently but sad to say not the marinas (in most cases) 🙂. Keep up the good job!
Thank you Michael👍
You are very welcome Peter - So pleased you found it useful
Marvellous nuggets of wisdom sir thank you. Off to buy your book now!.
Wonderful Steve but I am still working on Med Marina book - will be out in a few days... So pleased you liked the video
@@SailingGently Great, I will be it´s first customer!. Also if you do any private 121 consultations (by the hour) on Med sailing guidance around Turkey and Spain, would be very interested in booking your services.
Steve I don't but I would be happy to do a zoom call with you if that helps - I try not to monetise my sailing stuff beyond advertising and selling my books. www.gentlesailing.com
Hi Michael. Excellent info. Turkey looks amazing.
When will you be back on the water?
Kind regards,
Paul.
Very soon! well relatively - As soon as I get back to Boulogne I will either scrub down and antifoul or wait until I start my summer cruise in May
great wisdom
Glad it was helpful Simon
Thanks Michael, I'd never really considered Turkey - so Turkey it is. Cheers. It's a cruel world.
I made an effort to present it as well as I could as I genuinely think it is by far the best cruising in the Med and much more friendly than the EU
@@SailingGently Ah, a glass of wine, your dulcet tones make a perfect afternoon - not to mention I learn more things about sailing in the northern Hemisphere, especially the Med, than a lifetime of sailing might teach ... it's a cruel world.
@@ljdasilva3139 You are too kind - thank you - I do believe life is not a rehearsal!
Travel agent.... Not bad.
Just wondering during what happens with refugees.
Not aware of a problem in Turkey except on the Syria boarder and that's a long way to the east from the main cruising ground - most want to get to the EU I think
I keep my boat in Turkey for 1.5 year already... I agree the service in marinas is good but I'm not so exciting about sailing in Turkey because it's mostly coastal sailing... I really miss numerous islands like in Greece... yeah, here is the fan of Greek islands ))
Thank you for you videos! Interesting as all of them
Morten thank you for your comments - and I understand - I spent time in the Greek Islands before moving on to Turkey - then eventually got bored there and moved to the Caribbean - I think you and I both have pretty lows boredom thresholds. So pleased you liked the video
Mr Briant, i can just predict that you are going to attract many Greek followers. But the contents of your videos are interesting, richly and warmly depicted, and honest with your practical useful advice and personal experiences and biases. Still do keep up this very good and friendly reporting. JLR.
Jean Luc I am so pleased you find the Med series useful and like viewing them - thank you for watching
As some body that is leaving our full time birth to start cursing in 4 WEEKS! (flip flop between excited and terrified daily) this series has been wonderful.
Our plan this year is to spend most of the summer on the south coast of the UK before heading down to Morocco (over our 90 days allowance) for Christmas time so we can start afresh into the med next year. I am hoping that we will be able to purchase extra time on our visa by that point but looking forward to your Tunisia video coming up as a stop off to reset our 90/180 clock!
Well done Stu - have a wonderful passage south! there is indeed lots about Tunisia in Ep 6 and I suspect you will give it a try - good place
Lovely video and great information. Many thanks. I started purchasing your books too and they are just as informative and well laid out. We welcome all visitors in Turkey and as far as officialdom goes (as I am a part of it too) we do like to take care of our guests who end up attracting more visitors. We appreciate that their visit to Turkey is a choice, not an obligation, therefore we try to walk the extra mile in making them feel welcome. After all, as any business person would agree that the best business is repeat business, we welcome all bona fide visitors who might lead to a good word among their families, friends, acquaintances, and yes, social media followers. It does not only make good business sense for the tourism industry, but also hospitality is ingrained in our national character, a big part of our culture and upbringing, if you like. So, while your praise for Turkey and its people, its officials may sound surprising for many, I am merely happy that our habitual welcoming attitude towards our visitors and guests doesn't go unnoticed. Thank you again. Cheers!
Avni hello,
I always say what I think and indeed being in a boat in Turkey was the highpoint of my first 4 years in the Med! So pleased you like the channel and my books... Thank you for watching
Great information, well presented. I have commented on your videos previously, mostly about places I visited by boat myself and am no less impressed with this part of your series.
As indicated, I was never in Turkey by boat but spent quite some time there (and through) as a long distance truck driver and agree that Turkish people are among the most hospitable, generous people I have ever met. One matter that I will add and that may be somewhat controversial here is politics. I would have serious problems to support the current Turkish regime with my good money, when at least some portion of fees, charges and taxes buoy a despot like Erdogan.
Peter thank you for that. (I used to have a class 1 but never got to Europe - reserved for kings of the road!) I really have no political opinions any more as since the Arab spring a load of countries have dumped their despotic rulers and ended in chaos ... But that's a political statement - Sorry! You could also argue that a lot of local small businesses get their livelihood from the international tourism - So difficult but I take your point and hope others read it.
Another really useful and informative video, Michael. Thank you 👍🏻
Glad it was helpful! Thank you for watchig
Unpatiantely was waiting to watch your new episode and yes with joy and very much interests , many many thanks Mike for your valuable informations you do provide us. cheers from Zürich
So nice of you. Glad it was useful - thank you for viewing
The new marina at Karpaz marina is gorgeous but you didn’t mention it .shame because it’s amazing
Eric thank you - I didn't visit Karpaz last time I was in Turkey - sounds like a must see.. It's developing so fast along that coastline
Hi Michael. I've been following this series with great interest. I thought you'd like to know that your website is looking a little worse for wear today, none of the pictures appear to be there.
James thank you for telling me about the link problem - I would never have known! Very grateful...Glad you like the series.
Interesting and informative - thank you.
You're point on holding tanks made me wonder (as an aspiring to-be cruiser one day!) - what is the arrangement if you are moored over winter in a marina in terms of holding tank emptying? Are you expected to go out to sea or is there some facility to empty in marinas?
Phil hi, Almost all marinas have a pump out facility these days... From your holding tank there is a tube to a deck fitting which is universal for all holding tanks. Glad you enjoyed the video
I love your channel. With this wealth of information, all I need now is a boat and a retirement fund to support the lifestyle!
Your right Chris - financing it is the hard part...
Thank you for sharing your experience Michael!
My pleasure Rory! thank you for watching
I've been following this series to dispel my theory that sailing in the Med is hugely expensive. Seems like Turkey is the place to be. Would you recommend buying a boat there, as compared to other Med/UK locations, with regard to value for money and modestly priced ($30,000) availability?
@Encourage Solutions, if you want to buy a boat in the Med just go the marinas which are not close to an airport or off the beaten track. Nobody wants to buy a boat there, so the prices remain low. Same goes for Portugal on the Atlantic side, significant price drops there. Turkey is probably the same deal, saw some videos online of people buying in Turkey nice boats for a good price. I bought mine in Croatia, but not via a broker, simply via the online (in Croatian language) websites. That is where the locals offer their boats, prices are much lower and no pressure from sales happy brokers. Good luck with your search.
I would agree with all Dave writes - The brokers in Almirimar have some good deals - It's a place people go to when they have fallen out of love with boating so there are deals around
Once again, excellent and informative - thanks Michael
My pleasure Johan - so pleased you liked it
Do you have any experience in Turkey with the current political situation and it's associated risks ? How was it in the past compared to today ?
In the past when I first sailed in the are there were maybe half a dozen marinas now upwards of 20 I think. It is a stable country Alex and as safe as most of Europe. They appear to welcome yachts and tourists with open arms and will look after them if only to protect their reputation
@@SailingGently Thank you, that gives me a better perspective on how it got to be the way it is .
Nice information! Many thanks!
Glad it was helpful Yevhen
Thanks so much for the info ! We are currently in Corfu, Greece with our boat, but seeing your report on Turkey definitely makes us want to go there. Just for information, am currently paying 6000 euro per year in my marina (16 mtrs) and on top of that the cruising tax (1034 euro, if you pay for the whole year at once you get a discount). Good part about the cruising tax is that you don't need to pay for the months you are not in the country, you just 'immobilize' your boat at the port authority and you are done. But, that only makes sense if you only take the boat out for a couple of months each year, so not like us living 6 to 7 months per year on the water and after that every now and then during the weekend.
Dave hello, Glad it made you like the idea of Turkey - I loved the area... Thank you also for the info on Gouvia (how is the weather there in winter?) and about not paying the tax when not on board.. I will include that info in the next video. Grateful for all the feedback
@@SailingGently Corfu is usually quite reasonable in the winter time, but last week it was freezing cold. It basically varies a lot, apparently next week it should be 15 degrees again during day time. With regard to the tax, you don't need to pay the tax if the boat is out of the water or if the owner is not in the country (that is according to the official rules). However, you can 'immobilize' your boat if you know for sure you are not going out on the water. If you do go out after immobilizing your boat and they catch you...........you are looking at a 1200 euro fine, not worth the gamble. As for the discount, if the boat will be in Greece all year long and you pay your tax prior to the end of January you get 20 % for being in Greece and 10 % for the year discount. You do need to show proof however that you paid. I agree it is a hefty tax, but since that you can basically anchor wherever you want and the ports cost next to nothing (7.50 euro per day) it is acceptable. If you would go to Croatia then it really becomes interesting. Marina's where you pay 12.000 euro per year (e.g. Rovinj) for a 16 mtr boat and anchoring is mostly forbidden. You have to use a buoy if they are in the water and they happily charge you 60 or 70 euro for that per night, with no guarantee that the buoy has been maintained at all. Ports and marina's alike cost a bl++dy fortune, could get up to 140 euro per night in some locations and you are not allowed to anchor anywhere close.
In all, for us, compared to Croatia, Greece is almost heaven on earth and now you told us Turkey is even better ! 😀👍
@@davedavids9619 Thank you for that information Dave. I am grateful - the weather here in the Costa del Sol was similar to yours last week and will heat up - is heating up this week... My Croatia experience was brief but for a flotilla type holiday probably fine but not full time for all the reasons you state... I am sure you will will enjoy Turkey! Do you know aviator Chris and Jac who also have a boat in Gouvia?
Very good, thanks!!🤟
Thank you too!
What location would you suggest, or have personal experience from, if I intentionally put the boat (40+ ft) on the hard for some extensive refit, like a couple of months during the winter season, not too expensive and with decent access to chandleries?
Not sure what area you are talking about Sgt but Almirimar is excellent - personal experience - it has all the trades and British run chandler and not expensive. Or La Rochelle in France Atlantic coast.
@@SailingGently Thanks, Michael. It was kind of an open-minded question - just not to limit your answers. Yes, Almirimar seems popular by many cruisers. I'm currently searching for a used 40+ ft sailboat, and I expect it to be some mandatory fixes before cruising in a broader sense. I am asking because where you buy the boat may be affected by the haul-out facilities close buy. Just my 2c. Cheers.
@@Cptnbond There is no boat without issues and it's certainly sensible to be in a good haul out area... With Brexit if you are a brit you and in a EU port you need to buy from EU chandlers like the excellent German SVB. Good luck with your search
Good info keep them coming.
Thanks, will do Peter
Hi Michael, Thanks. Enjoy listening as usual. I was wondering about winds in Turkey. Watching Sailing ABSea, who is residing in Turkey for their 2nd year, they seem to have alot of exposed anchorage complaints or maybe its just where/when they have chosen. Was curious about your experiences.
I watch them too and you must remember this is only their 2nd year I think with a boat... I never had issues in Turkish waters partly because there are always ports of refuge close by. My experience was excellent anchorages with good holding and as well protected as up want to make them - the place you choose
@@SailingGently Its great to hear that the Turkish coast isnt too windy and the anchorages can be fairly protected. Turkey is top of our list so its nice to hear you confirm your positive experience. Yes, I believe its the end of their first year. I have grown up sailing the pacific coast so feel quite out of our depth in the Med. Just circling the idea for now. Your series is very helpful and looking forward to the book. Thanks!
@@Jmcivor777 You will enjoy the Med - so many places and countries to sail to compared with USA west coast - most of it is really good - not challenging at all in summertime and beautiful places like Turkey which is so easy to enjoy - come on over!
@@SailingGently with such nice hosting, how can we not? ;😉🤗
Very useful. Thanks.
Glad it was helpful Isack
Great channel 👍
Thanks for the visit - glad you enjoyed it
👍👍👍
Thank you Stefan
Unfortunately you are very biased against Greece. Perhaps your did had some bad experiences in Greece but you should be more objective. You forgot to mention that all these old remnants in Turkey are Greeks... Generally I do find your videos very informative but not this one.
Mike i'm sorry to have offended you and indeed I think Greece is a beautiful country and I've had some good times there BUT the marine/port officials are awful people compared to others world wide doing the same job. I am sure the Greek authorities do not know how rude and unpleasant almost all of them are! And maybe if enough people like me make it public then maybe something will change. I remember going to clear out of a port very early in the morning so I had a chance to get to my destination before dark and the port police guy refused to do my paperwork until the TV program he was watching finished half an hour later... and then was rude!
i think relations between turkey and greece are going to improve .so i will visit greece regardless of what micheal said..Sea fairers are always doing there own thing when at sea.