Scent is memory’s secret weapon. One whiff, and suddenly you’re not where you are—you’re where you were. And for me, that’s almost always somewhere on or near a Sun Fun You gulet.
These are the five smells that hit me like a sea breeze to the face and instantly transport me back to the boat, to the magic, and to the version of myself that only exists when I’m on the water.
1. Wild Sage on the Hillside
The moment we step off the boat and start hiking, it hits—the warm, earthy scent of wild sage baking in the sun. It’s grounding and expansive at the same time, like nature’s version of deep breathing. It smells like freedom, like effort, like beauty. And every time I pass a roadside herb stall at home or open a jar of dried sage, I’m back on that trail above a turquoise bay.
2. Sea Spray at the Bow
You know it—that briny, fresh, slightly mineral smell that only exists on the open sea. The bow of the boat is where I go to think, to breathe, to get sprayed by saltwater and not care. It’s also the place I feel the most alive. That smell is the boat.
3. Fresh Figs (Right Off the Tree)
There’s nothing like it. The smell is sweet and sticky, with a touch of something ancient. The first time I picked one off a branch during a hike, it felt like a gift—just waiting there, soft and ripe. Now, even walking through a farmers market back home, that scent snaps me back to olive groves, laughter, and dusty shoes.
4. Turkish Coffee in the Morning
Strong, aromatic, slightly smoky—the scent of Turkish coffee wafting through the galley in the morning is an invitation. To gather. To slow down. To caffeinate before diving into the Aegean or a deep conversation. It’s not just a smell; it’s a ritual.
5. Moussaka Wafting from the Galley
Rich, savory, and comforting, the smell of moussaka drifting up from the galley late in the day is a signal: dinner is coming, and it’s going to be incredible. Eggplant, cinnamon, béchamel—every layer tells a story. It’s a scent that makes you hungry, not just for food, but for the community and connection that always comes with it on board.
Smell is a time machine. And Sun Fun You gave me some of my favorite timestamps.
What scent brings you back to the boat? Let us know in the comments or tag us in your sun-drenched, salt-kissed memories @sunfunyou. 💛