Finalists at the SHIREs awards

Updated: Mar 12, 2020 

We are very pleased to announce we have made the shortlist in two categories this year for the Scottish Highlands + Islands Rural Economy (SHIRE) awards run by Scottish Provincial Press. That's a nice endorsement in itself so well done to all our boat crew and operational team, and thanks to you, our guests, for coming along and joining us this past season, and for the very kind comments on our TripAdvisor site. We will strive to keep improving this year and offering you more great adventures, spectacular wildlife sightings and a wider choice of cruises than ever before.

Our two categories are...

RURAL BLUE AWARD
'Blue Economy' Enterprise of the Year - sponsored by Affric

The 'Blue Economy' is all activity related to our oceans, seas, waterways and coasts – of which the Highlands and Islands is blessed with far more than most with over two third of the UK coastline. Our Blue Economy plays a central role in terms of food, energy and health. From aquaculture to tourism, and from ports and harbours to energy – and the supply chain for all these and more – the blue economy is a major part of the Highlands and Islands' rural economy. We are looking for a business or enterprise which has grasped the opportunities presented by our location and is making waves in their chosen sector or industry – a champion of the modern Blue Economy and the potential it has for the Highlands and Islands.

Finalists

• Orbital Power
• Salar Smokehouse Ltd
• Hebridean Adventures
• The Royal Scottish Shipping Line
• JST Services Scotland Ltd
• Moray First Marine

RURAL EXPERIENCE AWARD
Tourism or Recreational Business of the Year - sponsored by Cruise Loch Ness

We are looking for a business or enterprise which has excelled in attracting people to the rural Highlands and Islands with an offering for visitors which stands out among a thriving industry. The winner will be something that encapsulates everything that is good about Highland hospitality – whether that it exceptional customer service or simply a wonderful experience which makes the most of the natural beauty and wonder that the Highlands and Islands offers. It is open to those encouraging people to enjoy the unique sport, leisure and recreation opportunities that the rural Highlands and Islands have to offer – those who have taken their own passion for their rural lifestyle and turned that into a sustainable enterprise which offers other people the chance to join in and even to find their own new passion.

Finalists

• North Coast Watersports
• Grantown East: Highland Heritage & Cultural Centre
• Culloden Battlefield
• Air An Lot Ltd
• WOW Scotland
• Assynt House
• Hebridean Adventures

We will find out who has won on the 21st November so keep your fingers crossed for us! :-)