Eleven tour operators in Shetland recently gained star gradings through VisitScotland’s Quality Assurance Scheme. The successful operators not only met the desired standards but exceeded them, with more than half of them being awarded four stars.
Seabirds-and-Seals were graded four-stars, along with Shetland Nature Cruises, in the newly introduced category of Wildife Experience. Jonathan Wills, owner of Seabirds-and-Seals, previously ungraded, said: “This is a real boost and a testament to the hard work my crew have put in over the years to ensure that the quality of the experience and customer service remains central to everything we do. The four star logo is also a great way of getting this message across to future customers.”
Brydon Thomason, owner of Shetland Nature Cruises, said: “For me personally this was such an achievement. This has been my first season as a Tour Operator and I had planned to use the Quality Assurance scheme as a development tool for my business. I never thought that my initial grading would come in at four stars. I am delighted.”
Tour operators to have gained four-star status are:
· Seabirds-and-Seals Wildlife Experience
· Shetland Nature Cruises Wildlife Experience
· Muckle Flugga Charters Tour
· Cycharters Tour
· Mousa Boat Trips Tour
· Island Trails Tour
Five other Shetland tour operators also gained star status:
· Shetland Geotours
· Fethaland Tours
· St Magnus Bay Charters
· Shetland Small Group Tours
· Shetland Sea Charters
Area Director for VisitShetland, Andy Steven, said: “We always knew we could guarantee great visitor experiences with our tour operators so encouraging them to apply for grading was the obvious step, and these results really speak for themselves. These operators are really setting the bar for quality and service throughout Shetland and I’d like to congratulate each and every one of them on their achievements.”
Photo: Brydon Thomason of Shetland Nature Cruises, Nikki Sellens, Business Relationship Manager for VisitShetland and Edmund Nicolson of Muckle Flugga Tours
