When our guide told us our drive to Fethiye would be the longest bus leg of the whole trip we didn’t take the warning too seriously. Departure was at 7 am and waiting for us at the end would be a pool nestled in the mountains and our first big “party” night. And it was this that got us through a very very long day. We arrived at our mountain villas late afternoon and straight to the pool we headed.
Refreshing swim and average included-meal later, and it was time to put our faces on for one crazy night ahead. This was the first true whole group bonding night and learning people’s true colours and natures after a few drinks was entertaining. We left for the first bar around 11pm with many of the group already well on their way for a big and sloppy night. We climbed the stairs of Zombie Bar and it was a matter of seconds before the majority of the group were on stage dancing, giving all other patrons quite a show.
Fish bowls, selfies and dancing was consumed vigorously by all. Around 12:30am it was time to head to Revolution. Here a revolution was about to take place. More booze, stage shows and of course dancing on the bar tops and the group bonded and, let’s face it, made a spectacle of ourselves. All caught on a trusty go-pro…
Dancing late in the night the last of us meandered home, dreading the early start. But if anything was going to get me up in the morning, it would definitely be my first boat and ocean day since last year. I had marked the date on my calendar from the moment I booked the tour and was out of bed at 7 am. Feeling a little rough but definitely rearing to go.
I clung onto my 2L bottle of water as I boarded the Funda 2. My lifeline to get through the day in one living piece. I chose my spot on the roof terrace, lathered myself in sunscreen and enjoyed the sensation of the sun warming my sun-neglected skin from the past 10 months in London.
At our first stop, I didn’t hesitate. I was in the water before the boat had come to a full halt. Following one of the crew up the cliff to the top of a sea cave, I leaped into the deep blue water below. Instant hangover cure. Before long, the whole group starting making the climb to the not-so death-defying leap. As others floated, I stretched my limbs and enjoyed the feeling of my muscles remembering what to do to glide through the water.
This is how I spent my day. Every opportunity no matter where I was on the boat I leapt into the water. I savoured a perfectly grilled fish and for dessert dove into the sea from the seat I sat whilst others continued their meals. I felt as if I had returned home. To top it off a sea turtle decided to join the party, encouraging even the most nervous to jump into the water from the top deck. The eight hours passed so quickly and soon it was time to disembark and get back onto the bus for an early night.
To join the boat day is an additional charge of 40 euros but definitely an optional extra to take serious consideration of!