Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). 1800 hours and we are sitting on the T.G. Ellyson in the commercial harbor of Rhodes Town. Tomorrow we will leave the boat for the remainder of our stay in Greece. This trip has been one of the most memorable holidays I have ever taken. Our captain, Gordon Abercrombie, and first mate, Brigitte Pelletier, have been most accommodating. Brigitte more than Gordon, of course. Gordon is extremely knowledgeable of the geography, politics, and history of this area. We have been most fortunate to have been able to accompany Gordon to two archaeological sites which he has never before visited. These sites were remote but well worth the effort. The sailing has been beautiful. The destinations chosen were extremely good. Brigitte is almost indescribable. Lovely, charming, and a better cook you will be hard pressed to find. Our dining has been very simple, healthy, and extremely creative. If she retires as she says she may, it will be a great loss for Gordon and future guests on the T.G. Ellyson. Gordon's background as a naval officer, his career as a sailor, and the historical knowledge he has acquired over the 20-plus years he has been in this area make him an ideal host for this cruise. I am saddened by the fact that we will have to leave tomorrow but the memories will last forever. Al Curnutt, Farmington, New Mexico, April-May 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). This has been a holiday of a lifetime. Even without "Showers" it was most enjoyable. Gordon showed us lots of interesting ports that I might never have seen. I enjoyed being in the smaller ports and meeting the people. Seeing things I would not have seen. Many memories to take home. Brigitte was wonderful. She was so very accommodating to me, as I was very uneasy about the trip. I thank her for that. I will be telling many people about the "once in a lifetime holiday." Thanks to both Gordon and Brigitte for making this a great week with many fine memories. Billie Curnutt, Farmington, New Mexico, April-May 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). Thank you for a wonderful trip! (Happy Face) The sea was breathtaking, loved each port with something new to see, buy, and eat. We loved each dinner experience and meeting many new friends. You are a Great Captain! Brigitte made each meal better than the last and will be missed! Thanks for all the memories! P.S. Make sure you let everyone know your boat can hold a lot of luggage because we tested the limit. Lord knows if you had more room I would have done more shopping. (Happy Face) P.P.S. I will phone your wife and get her expertise on eBay. Maybe I can have a gold card Paypal account, too. Dusty Hanson, La Palma, California, April-May 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). A sailing adventure, a fishing expedition, hiking to two archaeological sites that we may have been the first Americans ever to see these locations, Triopium and an area above the village of Kizilkoy. The dining experience in the Dodecanese Islands that Captain Gordon Abercrombie advised our group of was exquisite. I especially loved it when Captain Abercrombie offered to buy dinner at the Aurora Restaurant (And we thought he was tight. Ha!). I would become frustrated with the political beliefs of Captain Abercrombie and First Mate Brigitte and Huseyin of Aurora who seemed to say that America can do no right and they should quit interfering with the rest of the world. My thoughts were the rest of the world is lucky that there are nations like the USA to assist in the search for freedom and democracy. Speaking of Brigitte, she is a fantastic person, a great cook/chef who produced unbelievable breakfast and lunch. I will take her salad recipes back to the fire station for all to enjoy. Chris Hanson, La Palma, California, April-May 2006

Gocek to Kas (Alexander's Path). It was a delightful week of sailing on the rocky coast of the beautiful blue Mediterranean, climbing the paths to the remains of history, and eating delicious food in beautiful settings. Thank you Captain Gordon for a great week. Our love and appreciation, Ruth Matthews, Morehead City, North Carolina, May 2006

Gocek to Kas (Alexander's Path). Gordon, Thanks for one of the most memorable and best holidays ever. We learned a lot of history, ate some great food (thanks to Ayca!), and learned a bit about sailing. I really hope to be back to sail on the T.G. Ellyson again. Don Matthews, Rochester, Michigan, May 2006

Gocek to Kas (Alexander's Path). Gordon, to a man of keen intellect, great knowledge, and a dear host, my deep appreciation for an outstanding week of learning, conversation, and eating. I wish you fair winds, high tides, and clear skies wherever you sail. Hope to see you next year! Buck Matthews, Morehead City, North Carolina, May 2006

Kas to Gocek (Alexander's Path). Our voyage was an adventure that I'll never forget. I loved going off the beaten path to so many remote places. Gordon is a great captain and educated and amused us. Brigitte spoiled us with terrific gourmet fare and service. Truly a unique sailing experience. Laurie MacLachlan, San Francisco, California, May 2006

Kas to Gocek (Alexander's Path). Enjoyed this very much! Especially appreciated your knowledge of the history of the area. You also chose your first mate wisely. Brigitte was a treat. Ian MacLachlan, San Francisco, California, May 2006

Gocek to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). An opportunity of a lifetime to sail from Turkey was made a true adventure and joy because of the T.G. Ellyson. Gordon, you have taught me many things about the sea and sailing and gave a wonderful tour of the ruins. A Gordon-led hike is like no other - you are part mountain goat. Trisha's food was fabulous and we agree with Jenny, Gordon - you do travel to enjoy the restaurants! A great time with memories and laughs that will last a lifetime. Thank you. Ann Schreiner, Oak Park, Illinois, May-June 2006

Gocek to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). The history, the water, the ruins, the food! I had a ball! Learned a lot about sailing, Turkey, culture, and the stress and joys of life on a sailboat. Gordon, you run a top-notch show. I'll remember this week forever. Amy Starin, Oak Park, Illinois, May-June 2006

Gocek to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). Gordon - what a great trip. Most important things first - how to use a marine toilet and two loops around the drum-over the lip and into the groove-and crank like crazy. Lots of history, gin and tonic, and great food. Terrific job. Skip Shelton, Lisle, Illinois, May-June 2006

Gocek to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). Thank you for helping make our dream trip of a lifetime come true! I loved the opportunity to be part of your crew, and I learned so much about sailing from you. Call me anytime you need me to fill in as a crew member! We learned so much about the local ruins - loved following you on trails and making our own way on others - and convening our sacred council meetings atop hills and in odeons. You shared our love of good food and drink and led us to great gourmet experiences (Suzan and Huseyin were the best!). We're going home to continue the toast tradition of "sharif" A to Z. My special Gordonism is "real men sit on teak" (Jenny, the cushions were a great addition!), and our parting memories include "Thank you George W. Bush." Or was it "George E. Bean?" Best wishes for many glorious years of sailing these special seas and climbing these sacred grounds. Linda Peterson (your anchor and chain locker person), Lisle, Illinois, May-June 2006

Rhodes to Ucagiz (Alexander's Path). Great trip. Gordon is clearly the best guide to this part of the world - a beautiful, fascinating, place. Alec Fisken, Seattle, Washington, June 2006

Gocek to Kas (Alexander's Path). Thank you, Gordon. This was a fantastic interlude I'll never forget. On my return home I'll write about this holiday on my travel blog. I hope you'll enjoy reading it (in Japanese!!!). Satomi, Brighton, England, June 2006

Gocek to Kas (Alexander's Path). I came here on a sailing holiday. I have found a lot more! Gordon amazed us with great walks to ancient sites every day. He is a great sailor of deep culture and with a very open view of current politics. By the way, T.G. Ellyson is a beautiful yacht kept in immaculate condition! Alessandro Iacoponi, Brighton, England, June 2006

Rhodes to Kos (Cleopatra's Route). Dear Gordon, Thank you for a beautiful sailing holiday. You took us to some really amazing places, and our dinners were fantastic. It was really great having someone to show us the best restaurants in town. I think Simi Town was our favorite. The beach we found in Kos was absolutely beautiful, and Christina was great! She really helped me with my kids when I was too sea sick to take care of them. Thank you so much for all of it!! Great holiday. Love, The Kamar Family, Bassily, April, Katerina, and Eleni, La Canada, California, July 2006

Rhodes to Kos (Cleopatra's Route). Thank you for a never forgetting trip. Selimiye was really fun. We got to jump off the boat, snorkel, and do lots of fun things. I liked Simi a lot. I liked to go to the beaches with everyone and swim. Tilos was the best. We got to see kittens, we rode motor scooters and had lots of fun. I really really really like Kos. I had a great time at Paradise Beach. It was shallow for at least a mile and I almost caught a fish with bread. I had a great time on the ship. Thank you. Love, Katerina Kamar, La Canada, California, July 2006

Rhodes to Kos (Cleopatra's Route). Thank you for taking me on this fun trip. I had so much fun with Gordon and Christina. Love, Eleni Kamar, La Canada, California, July 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). From the moment I saw the boat, I knew that I was in for the most memorable ride of my life. They welcomed us with open arms and helped us unpack and enjoy our trip. Lovely destinations, amazing crew, and round and round of gin and tonics for the adults. If I had to describe the T.G. Ellyson with one word, I would say, supurb. Gordon and Christina were the best. Thanks! Christian Pfeiffer, Coral Gables, Florida, July 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). I really enjoyed this boating trip so much. I loved going to Turkey and kayaking. This was among my favorite trips. Gordon and Christina were really nice. My family and I had a great time. Thanks, Alexander Pfeiffer, Coral Gables, Florida, July 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). Dearest Gordon and Christina: The T.G. Ellyson is a gem. Gordon is a great captain and Christina was a joy. My favorite stops were Selimiye and Tilos. Great G&T's and beautiful sunsets will always stay on my mind. This holiday must be repeated. Vivien Pfeiffer, Coral Gables, Florida, July 2006

Kos to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). After reading what my wife and kids wrote I'm not sure what more to add. There is something that they didn't clearly mention and that is the beauty of the Turkish coastline and the two memorable stops we had in Turkey. Many thanks to Christina and Gordon for the memorable trip. E Pluribus Unum. Ken Pfeiffer, Coral Gables, Florida, July 2006

Rhodes to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). Gordon and Christina, Thanks for a remarkable voyage! I enjoyed getting to know you both, sharing dinners (even before we lunched) and wine and learning about sailing history. The sailing from Rhodes to Kumlu Buku was perfect and set the tone for our trip. I believe Sogut and Loryma were my favorites. Quiet harbors and spectacular scenery! Sorry my bad ankle did not allow me to join more hikes, but the one I did join at Kumlu Buku was great. Thanks for developing my taste for grilled octopus, too. Most of all, thanks to you both for your comradeship, sense of humor, and patience with us at all times. It was a wonderful trip and a memory we will cherish. Jim Robbins, Palo Alto, California, July-August 2006

Rhodes to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). This was the trip of a lifetime for me. Beautiful scenery, great weather and breathtaking turquoise waters made sailing a joy. I felt safe and secure in the sure hands of Captain Gordon and enjoyed morning hikes to ancient ruins with him and Christina. The hikes followed by a swim and delicious breakfast will be fondly remembered as will kayaking around Loryma and dinners drenched with wine. Your company was a joy and Christina an angel in every sense. I could truly not have asked for a better experience. I am sad to leave. Thank you for showing us all the remote areas we so deeply wanted to take in. They were all exquisite. I could go on and on but I'll leave room for my mom. Thank you again and again Gordon and Christina. This is a memory I will, as my dad said so perfectly, cherish always. Fondly, Carly Robbins, Palo Alto, California, July-August 2006

Rhodes to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). The trip got better and better each day. Our every comfort was taken care of by the warm and wonderful Christina - yummy and healthy food the best! Captain Gordon keeps such a beautiful clean and shipshape boat. Your knowledge of all things historic was such a great addition, and the best was discovering your delightful teasing humor. Kayaking was extra-special; thanks for all the work. Truly, this was a week in heaven for me. Linda Schuck, Palo Alto, California, July-August 2006

Marmaris to Gocek (Cleopatra's Route). This trip was awesome, G-dog. I liked going to the ancient tombs and all the sea life. Thank you for taking us. Patrick Bolton, Las Vegas, Nevada, August 2006

Marmaris to Gocek (Cleopatra's Route). This was our second trip with Gordon, longer than the first in 2005. Spectacular bays and coves in the Gulf of Gocek were the highlight. Gordon's company, wry humor, intimate knowledge of the locals, and especially of ancient history/sites is a huge plus for us. In addition, at a time when uncritical acceptance of the Republican agenda is de riguer, Gordon's vigorous defense of classic American liberalism is a welcome breath of fresh air, though he and we may be "voices crying out in the desert." (Daniel Webster) There is nothing that can surpass a summer cocktail hour on the stern of the T.G. Ellyson with Gordon, gin and tonic made to perfection by his amiable and capable first mate Christina, deep in discussion of politics, ancient sites (try to find Arymaxa on the map in your Blue Guide - you will not - but Gordon can take you there), and history. Coupled with Turkish hospitality, best in the world, and the freshest, best, produce as dining ingredients, and you have all you need for a perfect holiday. Which this was. P.S. Gordon, we finished Stanley Lombardo's Odyssey, the best translation ever in English, and gift it to you and future TGE guests. There is no better place than right here to enjoy and drink its verse. Tali Arik and Julie Bolton, Las Vegas, Nevada, August 2006

Gocek to Gocek (Lycian Sailing Holiday). Last night in Turkey... What a beautiful place! Friendly people, breathtaking scenery, great food... and we were so fortunate to be guided by "Baba Gordon!" Christina makes the best salads and gin-and-tonics, and her friendliness has no equivalent. The strongest beautiful girl I have met. William, the captain's son, saved Jacques from adult conversation and made our trip brilliantly entertaining; his smile is the most contagious I have ever seen. Gordon, what can I say!!! Just to meet him has made the trip worthwhile! As long as you get out of the way during maneuvers! I have felt 100% safe the whole time, 100% comfortable, and I will fly home 100% relaxed! Thank you for a fantastic holiday! Love, Anne. Anne Ollerenshaw, Barcelona, Spain, August 2006

Gocek to Gocek (Lycian Sailing Holiday). My favourite bit was when I was swinging on the ropes in Sarsala Bay and Cleopatra's Bay. And I had a really nice time in Bee Bay. Jacques Ollerenshaw, Barcelona, Spain, August 2006

Gocek to Gocek (Lycian Sailing Holiday). We had an excellent trip aboard the beautiful cutter T.G. Ellyson. The sailing was great and the company even better. We enjoyed our morning hikes to secluded ancient ruins and the observations and enthusiasm of our very knowledgeable skipper on and for all things archaeological. Late morning swims were a refreshing way to cool off after our hikes. At the end of each day it was a pleasure to pull into yet another secluded bay and to be warmly greeted as old friends by the restaurant operator with his assortment of fresh mezze, fish and meat (wild boar was a favourite!). While we were not favoured with the strongest winds, our skipper took every opportunity to sail. We appreciated the experience of helping as crew and manning the helm and were thankful for the skipper's patience and expert instruction. A great experience and one that we will never forget! Thank you for everything, Gordon! Love, Wendi and David. Wendi and David, Ottawa, Ontario, August 2006

Gocek to Gocek (Lycian Sailing Holiday). Gordon: This is one of the most wonderful experiences I've ever had. Your yacht is very pretty and in excellent condition. The whole area is great. Thank you for sharing with us your knowledge of history in this area and for being our guide. Muchas gracias por toda tu amabilidad. Espero que nos visites para poderte regresar algo de toda tu gentilesa. Ernesto Marin-Santillan, Leon, Guanajuato, August 2006

Gocek to Gocek (Lycian Sailing Holiday). Gordon: This is our first Mediterranean sailing experience, and it could not be better. Besides being a fantastic capitan, host, and guide, you are a great guy with a wonderful family. Loved Dudu and her family, too, all the little coves, the hikes, the history - EVERYTHING!!! We hope to see you again on a future sailing trip and sincerely hope you and your family will visit us in Mexico. Gracias, Colleen. Colleen Marin, Leon, Guanajuato, August 2006

P.S. We loved Christina as well!

Kekova Roads to Kos (Cleopatra's Route).     Ten Things I've Learned Aboard The TGE

(1) Noon = Beer, 5PM = Gin & Tonic. (2) It's Lickian, not Lissyen; on yachts salon is pronounced saloon. (3) When in doubt, sheet out. (4) Regardless of the Turkish destination, there's a 95% chance there will be a restaurant owner/employee willing to be my boyfriend... but just for the evening. (5) When Gordon's not happy, no one is happy. (6) I've met a gale, and I don't like her wind. (7) Due to my cooking, cleaning, and waitress training, apparently, I'm ready for wifery and motherhood, both of which can wait. (8) Whatever goes wrong can always be blamed on George W. Bush. (9) A hostess, like a screwdriver, can bend, and even break, but by the end of the season can become crew. (10) While on the TGE, Captain Abercrombie is a hard taskmaster, but in life Gordon Abercrombie is a soft baba I've come to know and love.

Christina Lenahan, Marietta, Georgia, September 2006

Gocek to Kalaboshi (Cleopatra's Route). Gordon, I enjoyed the choice of destinations - people & places & history. The weather gave us several days of wind to allow sailing - the last in 30 to 40 knot winds was certainly something I won't forget. Your wise choice to find a safe harbour (and rescue another craft on the way) on that day was very appreciated. Christina, you have made the trip enjoyable with your good humour & great lunches & making life on the boat fun. In summary, an enjoyable mix of sailing, history, food & drink. Lyn Barton, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2006

Gocek to Kalaboshi (Cleopatra's Route). The sailing was most enjoyable, until the "near gale." I was very impressed with the skill of the captain and crew. The swimming was wonderful in the crystal clear water. The whole experience was just special. Enjoyed the good company and had a time to remember. Elaine Spackman, Landsborough, Queensland, September 2006

Gocek to Kalaboshi (Cleopatra's Route). On our last dinner I think Christina said it all with her ten comments, and I don't intend to embellish the impossible. I had a fantastic nine days of all that has been described above. Bill Spackman, Landsborough, Queensland, September 2006

P.S. Enjoyed the beer and love Turkey!

Gocek to Kalaboshi (Cleopatra's Route). Great sailing (even the 40 knots), unique destinations, friendly locals. I have never seen water so clear. The food surpassed expectations. Altogether a super holiday and perfect introduction to Turkey. Keith Barton, Sydney, New South Wales, September 2006

Rhodes to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). This was our third trip on T.G. Ellyson, and again a very enjoyable experience. Gordon's tour of Caunos was great with excellent background information on this ancient city that made it extremely interesting and meaningful. The "yacht club" at Kumlu Buku was first class, including reed parasols and large pillows on the beach, a nice place to recharge your batteries. Gordon's tour of the ruins atop Kumlu Buku provided us an opportunity to see another site out of the way of tourists. The restaurants selected by Gordon are tops, and of course we enjoyed his company and interesting observations. This trip was particularly special for me because I have known Gordon as a friend for 32 years. Many Thanks, Bart Gurewitz, Palos Verdes, California, October 2006

Rhodes to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). A charter on the TGE is much more than a sailing holiday. Cruising the Greek islands and Turkish mainland with Gordon is a rich education in off-the-beaten-path history. It is also a rejuvenating experience for mind, body, and soul. Peace and serenity. It is a time with your family to remember forever. This is the third time we have sailed with Gordon; he is like an uncle to me. Thank you for sharing the jewels of the eastern Mediterranean! Wishing you the best always! Brian Gurewitz, Mission Viejo, California, October 2006

Rhodes to Rhodes (Cleopatra's Route). Sailing around the Greek islands and Turkish mainland with Gordon on the TGE is a wonderful experience. Gordon takes you to places that are beautiful and have so much history. And he knows all of the great restaurants. This is the type of holiday that really makes you feel away-from-it-all and relaxed. My favorite spot was Kumlu Buku! Thanks for everything. Aaron Gurewitz, Crystal Cove, California, October 2006

• What Our 2005 Guests Said
• What Our 2004 Guests Said
• What Our 2003 Guests Said
• What Our 2002 Guests Said
• What Our 2001 Guests Said
• What Our 2007 Guests Said

Contact Us

Return to Home Page

Dear Homo Sapiens, There is no need to continue reading this page. What follows is intended for search engine robots and spiders and not necessarily for human beings. Further information concerning crewed yacht charter holidays in Greece and Turkey may be obtained by clicking on the blue links immediately above. Thank You. While what follows mostly concerns crewed yacht charter holidays in Greece and Turkey, there are also detours into relevant history. Crewed yacht charters in Greece have always been attractive to those planning holidays. Crewed yacht charter holidays in Turkey have proved somewhat less attractive since the onset of George W. Bush's Greater Middle East Initiative, but holiday-goers coming anyway have nevertheless been amply rewarded. So this disclaimer is about crewed yacht charters cruising the Turquoise Coast of Turkey as well as those cruising Aegean islands of Greece. This was the crewed charter sailing yacht T.G. Ellyson's eleventh charter year in the eastern Mediterranean and her twenty-fourth year in the Mediterranean. As in prior periods the 2006 charter year was characterized by enthusiastic guests eager to sail, eager to hike, and eager to explore the evidence of ancient and medieval civilization. And in the summer months it was characterized by parents with children excitedly swinging from tree ropes into the sea between kayak excursions. It was another wonderful charter year of campfire cuisine and Greek taverna dining, and it was another year of search for the perfect octopus salad, this one with a near miss in April at the Captain's House in Pali, Nisiros. The year was notable for seven excursions through the Greek Dodecanese, visiting Greek Kos, Nisiros, Tilos, Simi (Symi), and Rhodes (Rodos) along the way. Rhodes is an island with a long and fascinating history, one including the merger of three Rhodian city states leading to the 408 BC construction of Rhodes Town, one including rule of large parts of neighboring Caria and Lycia on the Anatolian mainland, one including centuries of maritime supremacy in the Aegean and eastern Mediterranean, and one including a visit by Cleopatra in 32 BC when Rhodes was ruled by Rome, cruising from there to Simi to Knidos to Kos to ancient Halicarnassus. Just as fifteen hundred years later did the red-hulled, black-prowed, galleys of the Knights of Rhodes, originally the Knights Hospitallers of Jerusalem, later the Knights of Malta. Sortie-ing from Rhodes Town's middle harbor until 1523 and from Malta's Grand Harbor thereafter, these rejoinders to the galleys of Ottoman corsairs were captained by the likes of Pregent de Bidoux, Prior of Saint-Gilles, Jean Parisot de la Valette, and Maturin de Lescaut, Prior of Toulouse, known as Romegas. Sailing in company and individually they wreaked havoc in the Aegean on laden merchantmen bound from remote Ottoman outposts to the capital in Istanbul. So much havoc as to force Suleiman The Magnificent's successful 1522 siege of Rhodes and his unsuccessful 1565 siege of Malta, the latter a siege defended by la Valette as Grand Master with Romegas in command of the Order's galleys. One small vignette at the crossroads of history. Come sail these crossroads yourself, breathe the aroma of pine-shrouded coves dotting Turkey's Turquoise Coast, bask under a warm Aegean sun after swimming in its azure sea, join in the search for a perfect octopus salad, climb to an ancient acropolis re-fortified by these same Knights, enjoy fine sailing along the Turkish coast from Bodrum to Kekova Roads, the Blue Cruise often described by the New York Times, this year no exception, a crewed yacht charter holiday in Turkey. Comb Turkey's Patara beach fronting the seaport of the same name, explore the ancient city's civic and commercial areas, its theater and bouleterion, its lighthouse and granary dedicated to the Emperor Hadrian. Is either the holiday for which you are searching? A crewed yacht charter in Greece or a crewed yacht charter in Turkey? Is either the honeymoon for which you are searching? Are you hoping to charter a crewed sailing yacht to cruise Greece and Turkey? Are you hoping to charter a crewed sailing yacht to cruise the eastern Mediterranean? A proper crewed yacht to island hop the Greek Aegean? If so, contact us today at tgeyacht@aol.com.