Beachcomber Island Resort, one of Fiji’s oldest island resorts, will undergo major renovation following its recent acquisition by Vision Hotels led by brothers Mark and Brendon Deeley.
Known for their successful management of 20 hotel businesses over the last 15 years, including Vanuatu’s largest Iririki Island Resort and Spa, the Deeley brothers said they were committed to elevating the iconic resort into a premier destination for both local and international travellers.
“We’re excited to breathe new life into Beachcomber, a destination that holds such a special place in the hearts of many travellers,” Deeley brothers’ spokesman Mark said in a statement.
“We believe this project will not only elevate Beachcomber as a sought-after destination but also contribute significantly to Fiji’s tourism industry.”
The brothers aim to renovate Beachcomber into a four-star resort and key goals include the full renovation of all existing rooms, upgrading of common areas and the construction of 40 new rooms, ultimately expanding the resort’s capacity to 90 rooms.
“The renovation process is well underway, with several key upgrades scheduled over the coming years.
“By 25th November 2024, a brand new kitchen will be completed, along with the introduction of a refreshed 4-star menu led by a newly-appointed head chef,” Mr Deeley said.
Thirty eight rooms will be fully renovated by March next year, with significant upgrades made to the bar and restaurant while 12 rooms will be renovated by June 30, 2025.
“The final phase of the project, which includes the construction of an additional 40 rooms, will be completed by March 31, 2026, expanding the resort to a 90-room facility.”
The $10million investment in Beachcomber Island Resort includes $4million for initial renovations and $6million for new bure construction.
The project is expected to generate 50 jobs during the renovation phase with an additional 50 permanent positions once the resort is fully operational.
“Through close cooperation with the mataqali and local landowners, we aim to create a partnership that brings lasting benefits as the resort develops and flourishes,” Mr Deeley said.
“The resort is open for business and with these improvements we anticipate 32,000 room nights and 9000 guests per year once the expansion is completed.”
The resort traces its roots back to the 1950s when it was founded by veteran local hotelier the late Dan Costello, who also started the equally well-known Beachcomber Cruises to complement the hotel business.
Mr Costello, a descendant of the pioneering Costello family that came to Fiji in the early 1920s, was also a founding member of the Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association and remained a strong supporter of the development of Fiji’s tourism industry until his death in 2010.
The resort was put up for sale by its previous owners at the height of COVIC-19 in 2020 for $25million.
