Explore the best of Port Douglas with these unique luxury experiences
BUSINESS FEATURE
Every now and then we all need a luxury escape and when it comes to living it up you’re definitely at the right address in our beautiful paradise. Looking for the perfect experience? These local businesses really put a new meaning to luxury in Port Douglas.
Picture this; you start your day sipping on an aromatic coffee at Choo Choos while overlooking the glistening Coral Sea before jumping onboard MV Monsoon to explore the Great Barrier Reef and at night you retreat to the magical Escape Villas for an evening of opulent surroundings.
Port Douglas’ tourism pioneer John Morris certainly knows how to make the best of what our tropical resort town has to offer.
With Choo Choos at the marina, MV Monsoon and his latest development Escape Villas he has put together a unique luxury experience for both locals and visitors.
Waterfront views
Whether it’s a full brunch or brekky, a quick stop for coffee or ice cream, at Choo Choos Ice Creamery or a long, lazy lunch overlooking the Crystalbrook Super Yacht Marina - Choo Choos really is a must visit for anyone staying in Port Douglas.
The cafe is increasingly being recognised amongst both locals and tourists alike for delivering consistently delicious food, alluring drinks and a cheerful atmosphere.
According to Mr Morris, the cafe has seen visitor numbers increase due to, in particular, the arrival of the unique refurbished train carriages.
“They have been a huge contributing factor to the restaurant’s appeal creating a great retro, contemporary vibe,” he said.
"No need to be a train enthusiast - wherever you sit in the venue, the location and surrounds are stunning.
“On top of this the cafe serves only the finest and freshest produce, and what I think is the best coffee in town, I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed, what’s not to love about it?”
Explore world class reef sites
Imagine having your own private boat for the day to explore all the intricacies the reef has to offer.
Founded by Mr Morris in 2013, the charter business was developed with the innovative idea of providing affordable luxury to the everyday person.
With a humble beginning as a snorkel charter, Monsoon has grown and developed consistently over the years.
“Today we not only provide guests with world class snorkelling sites, but with the opportunity to scuba dive pristine reef walls, all with delicious chef prepared meals,” Mr Morris said.
“We feel that people these days want more out of their holiday experiences. Our clients are looking for something a little extra, and that’s what we’ve always endeavoured to provide.
“We choose the best spots to suit our guests with the most appropriate snorkel and fishing sites based on real time weather and tidal conditions.
“The delectable lunch and snacks served onboard Monsoon are all prepared by our staff at Choo Choos at the Marina, meaning all food is fresh, in season and hand-picked by our Head Chef.
“Whether you’re an adrenaline junky keen to dive the depths of the big blue, an able fisherman looking to pull in the days catch or a sun seeking nature lover wanting to explore the surrounding sand cays and islands on foot or by SUP, MV Monsoon and her crew will ensure your day onboard is one that you’ll never forget.”
The perfect home away from home
A contemporary and spacious design by Hunt Design and Zap Creative and fitted out for tropical luxury by Janet Clare Interiors, the Escape Villas have it all.
The luxury villas are close to Four Mile Beach, the village of Port Douglas, the Mirage Golf Course and offer stunning views of the waterways and the rainforest mountains.
With decades of experience in building resorts and residential accommodation in the region, Mr Morris and his daughters Wendy and Janet know what works and what doesn’t.
“Escape Villas has brought together everything we’ve learnt, and is the result of something that, as a family, we’re exceptionally proud of,” Mr Morris said.
“We came up with the idea behind the Escape Collection at the beginning of the Covid crisis. It was clear that now was the time to build something extraordinary and luxurious for people who were then trapped in the southern states, or people living overseas aspiring to come to Australia.
“These people needed an escape from their cold winter confinement to our clean, tropical warmth, our natural environment and our outside space.
“With the level of luxury and space we envisioned, we figured this concept would be the perfect home away from home for people looking to get away from the city and the cold.”
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