Noss boat operators nominated for tourism awards

SHETLAND’s two Noss tour boat operators are leading the way in terms of local nominations for this year’s Highlands & Islands Thistle Awards (HITA).

Seabirds-and-Seals and Shetland Seabird Tours are both nominated in best outdoor or adventure experience category at the tourism awards.

Shetland Seabird Tours is also nominated for best visitor attraction, while Seabirds-and-Seals is up for the inclusive tourism prize.

The two companies are the only Shetland nominees in the 2024 awards.

The winners will be revealed at an awards ceremony and gala dinner at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness on 4 October.

HITA chairman Calum Ross said: “Yet again, our finalists have shown just what incredible talent we have in tourism and hospitality across all the regions of the Highlands and Islands.

“Every year our judges find it more and more challenging to choose their shortlist and 2024 has been no exception.”

HITA winners proceed to the Scottish Thistle Awards national final to represent the region at the national event.

Meanwhile Shetland Seabird Tours has also been nominated in the best small business category at VIBES Scottish Environment Business Awards.