Setting Sail on the Aphrodite

The sun was just beginning to rise over the horizon as I made my way to the port of Morro Jable, ready to embark on a new adventure aboard the Aphrodite. As a professional surfer, I’ve spent countless hours on the water, but there’s something uniquely thrilling about setting sail on a Turkish gulet, especially one as charming as the Aphrodite. The promise of a day filled with sun, sea, and the gentle sway of the ocean was too tempting to resist.

Upon boarding, I was greeted by the warm smiles of the crew—Leon, JP, and Juan—who immediately made everyone feel at home. A bottle of prosecco was popped open, and glasses were filled as we settled into our seats. The atmosphere was relaxed, with music playing softly in the background, perfectly setting the tone for the day ahead. The crew was attentive, ensuring that drinks were always within reach and adjusting the music to suit everyone’s preferences.

The deck was spacious, with plenty of sun-soaked spots to lounge in. I found myself a comfortable beach bed at the front, where I could stretch out and soak up the sun. As we set off, the crew briefed us on our journey, taking care to ask about any dietary requirements. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that vegan options were available, a thoughtful touch that added to the overall experience.

Dancing with Dolphins

An hour into our journey, the excitement on board was palpable as we spotted a pod of long-nosed dolphins in the distance. The Aphrodite seemed to have a magnetic pull, as a couple of dozen common dolphins soon joined us, playfully swimming alongside the boat. Watching these magnificent creatures leap and frolic in the water was a magical experience, one that left everyone on board in awe.

As someone who has spent years chasing waves and exploring the ocean, encounters with marine life are always a highlight. The dolphins seemed to enjoy the company of the Aphrodite, perhaps drawn to her size and presence on the water. It was a reminder of the beauty and wonder that the ocean holds, a sentiment that resonates deeply with my love for the sea.

After our dolphin encounter, we made our way to the cliffs near the port, where we had the opportunity to take a refreshing swim. The water was a stunning shade of turquoise, warm and inviting. I dove in, relishing the sensation of the ocean enveloping me, a familiar and comforting embrace. Schools of fish darted around, adding to the vibrant underwater scene.

A Feast at Sea

Back on board, it was time for lunch, and the crew did not disappoint. The menu was a delightful surprise, with options to suit all tastes. For the vegans among us, there was couscous with tzatziki and chickpea fritters with saffron rice, while others enjoyed tuna, beef, and potatoes. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the culinary skills of the chef from Jandía.

As we continued our journey south along the coast, the mood on board was one of contentment. The absence of dolphins this time didn’t dampen spirits; instead, everyone seemed to enjoy the tranquility of the open sea and the breathtaking views of the volcanic coastline. The Aphrodite, though a sailboat, was powered by motor, but this didn’t detract from the experience. The gentle hum of the engine was a soothing backdrop to our leisurely cruise.

There was a lighthearted moment when the crew encouraged us to reenact the iconic Titanic pose at the helm. While some embraced the opportunity, I chose to slip away to a quieter spot, preferring to soak in the serenity of the ocean. It was a small, cheesy touch, but one that added to the charm of the day.

As we returned to port, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s adventures. The Aphrodite had delivered an unforgettable experience, one that I would highly recommend to anyone seeking a taste of the ocean’s magic. Many thanks to the incredible crew for their hospitality and for making the day so memorable. Until next time, I’ll be dreaming of the sun, sea, and the gentle sway of the Aphrodite.