Tuesday, 10 July 2012

Sailing at Club Teos, Turkey : July 2012

Just got back from a weeks holiday in Turkey, with Neilson, at Club Teos in the Izmir region.

Not sailing with the Gull but sailing all the same.

As RYA training was included in the holiday, I signed up for the level 3 sailing course.

During the week, I got to sail; Laser 1, Laser Pico, Dart 16 cat, Laser Bahia, Laser SB3.

Plus kayaking, waterskiing and stand up paddling.

The wind conditions were quite variable; mostly F4 - F5, occasionally F6 - F7 down to almost calm, as the sea breeze balanced out the prevailing northerly.

I guess some of the sailing conditions might be considered challenging. I entered a Pico into the end of week regatta, so any chance I got I went out.

I probably wouldn't have normally gone out in 20 kt winds and four foot swell, but in order to get familiar with the boat, as much practice as possible was required.

So, smashing through the waves beating upwind, while not particularly comfortable, was a confidence builder if nothing else.

All in all, a good holiday, with lots of sailing. While I'd certainly recommend the resort and probably Neilson, to anyone, it would have to be said that getting to and from the beach to the bay was a slow affair, as the hill blocked the wind substantially.

Club Teos Beach - more boats required?

Going out in a Pico

View from the restaurant


Waterskiing - Starting a run

Waterskiing - Finishing a run in the usual way!


I certainly feel happier sailing in rough weather now, but if I want to risk my own dinghy in big waves remains to be seen.