I was invited on a weekend getaway to represent our company for outstanding sales in 2006 and joining a group of 8 more people. The whole weekend was a surprise so I wasn’t sure what I was up for … so I was very excited.

Our flight was up to Hamilton Island and that was all I knew. Once we arrived at the airport, we were then taken to the Hamilton Island Marina and there were 2 launches docked, there was one for Hayman Island and the other had no name on it so it was a bit of a mystery.

They took us over to the Hayman Island launch and I knew this trip was going to be something I’ve never experienced. Once we got on we were welcomed with drinks and the service started from there. The boat ride took about an hour and we finally arrived at our destination - Hayman Island. We were greeted by the management team at the jetty which was a really nice touch for the beginning of our trip.

We got checked-in into our Pool Deluxe Room’s which had magnificent views of the Hayman pool and partial views of the beach. The room was a comfortable size and I think the views made up for any small issues that you would notice.

We had the afternoon free to ourselves so we walked around the resort to do a quick inspection and get ourselves familiar with the facilities available. We then got an itinerary to advise what was organised for our weekend. That night we were invited to join the Chef’s Table for a unique experience that takes one behind the scenes for dinner in the kitchen. The Chef’s Table is held in one of the main kitchens on Hayman with the meal accompanied by Premier Australian and international wines from Hayman’s extensive cellar, which houses around 20,000 bottles of wine. The evening was a very memorable experience … and I suggest everyone try it if they get the chance during their stay.

After our breakfast at Azure Restaurant, our day of full pampering began where we went for a luxury boat ride sailing around the island sipping on French champagne and a massage/facial to complete the day. What a tough day we had  . The Spa Chakra team was unbelievable! They did a fantastic job which made me feel relaxed and rejuvenated. The spa offers Hayman guests an exclusive selection of personally-tailored beauty and well-being programs designed to restore wellness and balance.

It was time for us to leave which was such a shame cause I was just getting settled in and getting used to this luxury life. I would definitely return back to Hayman Island on a personal level so I can relax and unwind.

On April 13th Qualia celebrated its six month anniversary, marking 213 days in operation, and some 3,000 guests through its front gates. Often called Australia’s first ’six star’ property, the luxurious all-villa resort on the northern tip of Hamilton Island has already made a mark on the Great Barrier Reef experience. qualia got off to a running start, managing to hit 60% occupancy, with the average stay at the four night mark, and already seeing a 10% returning guest rate. This high-end Whitsunday compound sits on 20 acres of land, and so far features 27 ‘Windward Pavilions’ and one Beach House. Come June, 32 additional ‘Leeward Pavilions’ will also grace the qualia compound, along with a helipad, dock and secondary entry point. In the six months of operations, the ultra-deluxe resort has seen 6,000 room nights, five major conferences and numerous local and international celebrities – though they’re keeping mum on names. Expect to see more out of this very Australian resort as it gears up to launch itself overseas.

Our view of the Tauck organisation is that it is truly “First Class”. Of course there is always a degree of luck with the group of fellow travellers on your bus but in our case we enjoyed a very compatible mix of characters and nationalities. The tour kept moving but allowed rest periods and longer overnight stays in all the right spots. Our Tour Director was personable and well trained. We will always consider Tauck’s options when making future holiday plans.The Emirates flights coupled with the chauffer car service was good value for money but not on all legs of the journey. The company advertises flat bed seating but this is not available on all fit out’s. Brisbane, Singapore, Dubai was a disappointment. We paid for First Class but the standard would generally pass for moderate Business Class. In flight service was fine but honesty in pre-flight information can be improved.

The service we enjoyed from “First Class” was indeed First Class and we shall not hesitate in offering you our future business. Thank you Tina.

Just got back. Hayman is spectacular.

We have 12 years industry experience and this venue is hands down one of the best in Australia. Service+++.

They even upgraded us for free for a couple of nights. The island is extremely Baby friendly, lots of families and understanding staff.

The bad comments on trip advisor can officially be stricken from the record. It is expensive once you are there but it is a private tropical island resort in the Whitsundays with probably somewhere around 300 million dollars worth of facility. Experiencing 300 million dollars costs a bit I guess…

Hayman is a true international. I have traveled extensively throughout the world and I know how far service extends. I seriously doubt many Australian resorts can top Hayman’s standards and consistency.