Hamilton Island 1st port

(Back blip) Hamilton Island is the most heavily populated and developed island in the Whitsunday group of islands. It is not the largest by far, but is the gateway to cruising and diving in the area with its own airport and is also only a 30 minute ferry ride from Shute Harbour on mainland Australia. It is in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and the stunning coastline and underwater beauty has made it a magnet for water tourists. This is my first "Port" on my cruise. I went ashore just for an hour or so. It is a beautiful island, very well manicured. I guess it is always full of visitors, probably a year round holiday spot because of its position. The light here is stunning. When I got back on board I had to do a watercolour sketch as the colors of the sea and sky were so vibrant.