Hamilton Island - Tranquility At Its Finest - Everything is Awesome!
We woke up in our little seaside town of Airlie Beach, blue skies with the warmth of the sun ready for an island adventure, Jame-I and I (Aotea) set off for a night of bliss.
We checked in at Cruise Whitsundays for our luxury cat to Hamilton Island via the amazing Whitsunday Islands. We were soon greeted by our outstanding host Donna Thomas down on the dock. She was awaiting our arrival to give us a courtesy escort to our hotel (which was a plus because there is a massive hill).
We dropped off our luggage at the hotel and set off to sign up for our buggy hire. Those of us with licenses were actually able to drive. We then ventured in a convoy around the island checking out amazing hotels, resorts, villa’s and rooms. We were lucky to visit the Wild Life Sanctuary on Hamilton Island which was very informative and full of Australian wildlife (A most enjoyable spot for breakfast with the Koalas).
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Qualia Resort
Onward we mustered and we were amazed by the world famous Qualia Resort which is visited by celebs as a secret getaway destination. The 6 star Qualia Resort (Oprah Winfrey’s Whitsunday choice of accommodation when in town), had stunning views of the islands and unique architecture.
We also checked out the Yacht Club Villas, tried the beds (in every room, and it’s not what you think, get your minds out of the gutter). Also viewed the Beach Club, had a quick look at the Palm Bungalows (which was by far one our favourites), and then retired at our Ocean View room at the 4 star Reef View Hotel.
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Food and Cocktails
By this stage, we had built up a mammoth appetite – Donna was all over it with a reservation for a well deserved gourmet lunch at the Pool Terrace Restaurant. Amazing view of the pool (which for some was a highlight). The food was outstanding, super filling, with a glass of beer to wash it down.
Now, for Donna’s break from the team we were given a few hours of time on our own. Of course 2 Base staff and friends were going to scheme to try EVERY cocktail on the menu poolside at the biggest pool bar in the Whitsundays. Some on menu, and others off. Thanks Saskia. You’re a legend!! Some may have been a little tipsier then others... Guys, there is soooooo much to do on this island. From tours, golfing, walks, 4x4 Quads, Spa days, Bowling, Go Karting, water sports and much, much more.
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Denison Star
We then went back to our rooms to prepare ourselves for our evening on the Denison Star. Which was by far one of the best things the both of us have done. This vessel is amazing and has such a history. Cocktails at sunset on the aft deck with some serious starters (sooooo good), dropped anchor at Cid Harbour, followed by an amazing alacarte dining experience on the back deck. This was set up especially for our group. VIP service baby. The staff, on the Denison Star were incredibly professional and courteous to our every need. We even got a little tour of the vessel and galley. We never wanted to leave (given that we’d probably have to roll ourselves off the vessels already from all the food and wine we’d consumed). I would recommend this tour to everyone.
Our plan was to go check out the nightlife which is available if that’s what you’re looking for. But after having the biggest food babies ever, simply walking back to the hotel was enough for one night. It was such a big day! We curled in for the night, in our huge beds and resorted to junk food and ‘The Lego Movie’. To cap it off ‘everything is awesome’.
Then back to the real world – Thank you so much for a great time Hamilton Island and the wonderful Donna Thomas.
Need somewhere to stay in Airlie Beach? Stay at Base Airlie Beach!
Main image: Hamilton Island via hamiltonisland.com.au
