Ferry and coastal excursion tour operators were among the companies that took part in Tourism Ireland’s ‘Lunch & Learn’ events held in France this week, writes Jehan Ashmore.
Of the 11 companies, three were marine leisure-based operators, which participated in the events hosted by Tourism Ireland in the southwestern cities of Bordeaux and Toulouse. The trio were Galway-based operators, Aran Island Ferries (also Cliffs of Moher cruises), Dublin Discovered Boat Tours (Liffey and the ‘Docklands’ to the edge of Dublin Port), and Killary Fjord Boat Tours on the scenic waters lined by the counties of Galway and Mayo.
Presentations about the island of Ireland as well as networking opportunities were held at the Lunch & Learn events. They represented a valuable opportunity for the Irish companies to connect with French travel agents and tour operators, who bring tourists to the island.
The aim was also to inspire French travel professionals about all that Ireland has to offer and to win a greater market share of their business for this year and beyond.
Ana Luis, Tourism Ireland’s Trade Partnership Manager France, said, “We are delighted that so many key French travel agents and tour operators are taking the time to come and meet with our partners from Ireland in Bordeaux and Toulouse this week".
"Our roadshow is a valuable platform for our partners from the island of Ireland to showcase and sell their products and services to ensure they win a greater share of the travel agents and tour operators’ business for 2025 and beyond.”
The other businesses with the Tourism Ireland delegation comprised the following: AC Group, Castlemartyr Resort, Causeway Hotel, Holiday Ireland Hotels, National Trust—Giant’s Causeway, Russborough House, The Clare Collection, and Vintage Tea Trips.
