My first blogging task for tourism queensland.
The deafening sound of the hotel room clock radio awakes me from my peaceful slumber. I roll to look out over the balcony, a glorious twilight peaks over Whitsunday Island… This is day-two and nothing would prepare me for the experiences I would soon encounter.
We’re shuffled into a pristine white room just off the hotel foyer to begin our psych tests. We’re briefed that to maximize time we’d need to eat breakfast while churning through 190 odd multiple choice questions. Surely they’re testing our multitasking ability I think to myself as I chomp down on possibly the most luscious piece of tropical watermelon I’ve encountered.
The schedule is hectic, our drill sergeant Andrew from TQ has engrained that promptness is the essence of these four days and in flash we find ourselves being hassled (motivated) onto one of fantasy’s 9 fantastic vessels.
As we head out through Whitsunday passage past South Molle and Whitsunday Island the passengers are entertained by the hilarious safety briefing demonstrated in slapstick humor by two of the fantasea crew (Seriously fantasea should be congratulated on making such a vital yet announcement so entertaining to watch).
The water picks up a swell as we past Hook Island and with nothing between us and hardy reef we cruise out into open water enjoying the cradle like rocking motion of the boat.
Let me state for the record, I’ve spent quite a bit of time in the magical Whitsunday region, and every experience is akin to embarking on a new and exciting adventure. There are over 1500 different species of fish alone, and then you got turtles, coral, clams, and other intriguing invertebrates to wrap your head around. Every time you dive beneath the surface you’re met with teams of fish who reciprocate the inquisitive nature by playfully darting in-front of your mask and then back into their protective hidey-holes.

We spend a good hour in the water as the selection panel and more importantly the world is critiquing our snorkeling style, this would have to be the most unique and surreal job interview I’ve ever experienced.
We climb back aboard fantasea’s reef-world pontoon and no sooner than us being dressed we’re whisked off to enjoy a magical flight aboard helireef
s fantastic helicopters and seaplanes.
In an amazing feat of aerobatic marksmanship we’re given front row seats to the only living organism viewable from space – the great barrier reef. The view is indeed great and nothing short of inspirational. Viewing the reef from above is an absolute must for any visitor or even local for that matter. If you’re visiting, don’t think about it, just do it. It’s something you’ll never regret, and never forget.
Flying in formation, our intrepid pilots delivered us safe and sound and not to forget in style to the exclusive and elusive Hayman Island resort.
Hayman Island is the only resort island of the Whitsundays I had yet to experience, that was until today. Experience, no no… Let’s be brutally honest here, it was sinful, unadulterated bliss. I’m 6’3 rugby playing 26 year old growing lad, and never has finger food ever satisfied me eternal apatite. Let me congratulate the fine chefs of Hayman on their incredible culinary craftsmanship.
Hayman prepared a smorgasbord of delicacies, each from the countries of the 16 finalists.

Surely the gluttony would come to an end. Simply put, it would never end… Not only were we escorted through the maze of impeccable kitchens (they’re the largest in the southern hemisphere!), but we were treated to an experience that could only be described as heavenly – the hayman chocolate room.

Unfortunately with Drill Sergeant Andrew (TQ) on our case we were rushed out as quick as we were in, it’s just blatantly unfair to be rushed while sampling fine chocolate. Fortunately, Hayman we’re yet to play their trump card – their 109 foot super yacht Sun Goddess.
At a top speed of 27 knots, we’d be across the Whitsunday Passage and docking by Hamilton Island in just over 45 minutes, just enough time to again enjoy the fine food aboard and hear a tail or two on the captain’s bridge.
Darren Merris is the ships engineer, he’s been with Hayman for just under eight years now, and the reason is crystal clear. Before moving over he worked in coal mines of South Yorkshire, this down to earth sea hardened character never dreamed of a life-style so opulent or rewarding. Upon his first visit to Australia (on working holiday visa) many moons ago he fell in love with the region, lifestyle, culture, atmosphere and personality. It’s easy to understand why, this place really is phenomenal, don’t just take my word for it, check out the other finalists first encounters, and you’ll undoubtedly see that something is indeed in the air.

