The hardest part of reviewing this hotel has been deciding what to score the hotel. We loved our stay hear, but can't overlook the many issues that are present. I would have loved to score higher and the location, staff, views etc all warrant five stars but it is let down by age, poor maintenance and cleaning and badly needs a refurbishment.
First the good:
> The staff are all friendly and helpful, including reception, security, restaurant etc.
> We were given a free upgrade to a waterside apartment that included a good size living area, well appointed kitchenette which included a fridge/freezer, dishwasher, cooker, microwave, coffee maker, utensils, mugs and plates, a good size bedroom with sliding patio door, dressing area and good size bathroom.
> The bed was really comfortable.
> The view - the room overlooked the harbour area and it was enjoyable to sit outside watching the boats go past, the occasional dolphin and the plethora of water birds. It was also interesting to watch the bridge open for larger crat to pass through.
> The restaurant - Jimmy Iguanas. This was fantastic with a good menu choice at reasonable prices, good quality food, excellent service and enjoyable ambiance. There is live entertainment each night and whilst the quality of these acts varies it's a nice touch.
> The facilities - parking either underneath the hotel (the best option if spaces are available as it keeps the car cool) with a large external overflow car park. A mini golf course throughout the first floor of the hotel, a normal pool and splashpark (open to the public), shop, bar, restaurant.
The bad:
> Rooms and general hotel need a major refurbishment. in our room we encountered dirty and worn furniture - the living room chair especially was very dirty and I received multiple bites when I sat in it. Our internal door handle came away and had to be repaired by maintenance, the toilet roll holder was loose, the shower head was rusty and dirty and in general the room was tired and needed a full update.
> Cleaning - our room was not cleaned for two days running, I spoke to the room attendant and was promised it would be done within the hour - it wasn't. I spoke to reception who were apologetic and sorted me out with clean towels and replacement toiletries.
> Daily service charge - Like other reviews (I should have read them before staying) I was not aware that there was a daily service charge. At $37 a night plus taxes this seems excessive - we did not use either pool, although the hotel did not charge me for every day as compensation for the room not being cleaned every day.
We would consider this hotel again - mainly because of the the location and staff. We would definitely choose one of the rooms overlooking the harbour and if it gets a refurbishment will be worthy of 5 stars.
