My neighbours have arrived for their summer holiday. It’s when I know I can have a couple of weeks behaving like a tourist and enjoying the wonderful area we live in. It also means I, invariably, agree to do some different things while having a nightcap and a laugh at 2am. This time it was leaving at 9am for my first ever trip on a party boat.I’ve been out on the water around Didim several times as I’m lucky enough to have friends with boats. We normally head towards Altinkum, Mavisehir, or Sagtur.

Chris Evans

The party boat gave me a new experience as we headed southwest past the Venosa Hotel towards Akbuk. It always gives a very different perspective seeing the coastline from the sea.

You spot things that pass you by when on dry land. This time it was how quiet the beaches looked. It may have been the time of day, but it doesn’t look like the busiest summer I’ve ever seen in Didim.Our host for the six hour boat trip was the Apollon boat, although you’re never far away from several other party boats sharing anchorages. Even the different mixes of music coming from each boat blend into the background.Our boat was family friendly and relaxed with the music not too loud, giving time to sit and chat. You were more likely to see someone order a bottle of water than a beer. It set the tone for the day, as serenity set in, only interrupted by several stops for a swim and a very pleasant lunch on board.If you want more of a party, and a few drinks, there are plenty of options. You can even have a foam party if that’s your thing. Other boats also take different routes, so it’s worth walking along the mooring berths in Altinkum to see what is on offer.Whichever you choose, there will still be plenty of opportunity for playing on the water as the Tasmanian Devil zips around offering fun on the donut or inflatable banana.

You’ll find a decent selection of snacks and drinks on board every boat, but if you feel like an ice cream later in the afternoon after the exertions of swimming, keep your eyes open for the Magnum speedboat. There’s a surprisingly good selection when you consider you are out on the water being supplied by a small day boat. They tour around the boats even when not at anchor. It takes some exceptional boat handling skills to come alongside a moving boat and sell ice creams to those on board.

Did I enjoy it? Absolutely, the chilled out atmosphere of our boat matched my mood. Would I be tempted to take a trip on one of the more active party boats? In memory of my younger self, I probably would, but I’d be the one in the corner fast asleep just after lunch.

Did it make me miss the days I had my own Beneteau 423 moored in Marmaris? It did, but if you’d like a far more economical day out, that doesn’t lead to your bank manager reminding you your credit card has a limit and not a target, I’d recommend the party boats. They’re an excellent way of spending the day on, and in, the water and seeing some more of our beautiful coastline.

All the party boats can be found at the far end of Altinkum seafront next to the fishing trawlers. They all have descriptions of what they offer, with many having a walk-on option on the day. It’s well worth checking them all out to find the one that suits you.