CAPE Clear Ferries has been honoured for putting the Irish language at the heart of its work, and for providing a level of service through Irish to its global customers.

Brendan and Karen Cottrell, at the helm of the business, were presented with three Gradaim Gnó na hÉireann awards in Croke Park last week in recognition of their ongoing efforts.

This was the first year the couple entered the awards which were launched in 2020 and are run by Glór na nGael and they were delighted to take home gold awards in all three categories of signage, marketing and branding.

‘It was great to be recognised for the work we do to promote the Irish language which is really important to us – níl neart a cur le chéile,’ said Karen.

At peak season the couple employ a team of around 19 and a big emphasis is put on promoting the language, and Irish culture in general.

Karen and Brendan Cottrell with their award at the ceremony in Croke Park.

‘Some of the team are from Cape Clear and are native Irish speakers, but those who aren’t including myself, always make an effort to use the cúpla focal where we can,’ she said.

On board their ferries, they display notices ‘as Gaeilge’ with phrases such as ‘cupán tae,’ ‘sláinte,’ and ‘ticeidí’.

‘Our passengers are very interested in learning even a few words before they get to the Gaeltacht island of Cape Clear and in general we’ve noticed a resurgence, and more positivity among people towards Irish,’ said Karen.

This year, 160 businesses achieved Irish Business Awards recognition, the largest number since the scheme was launched.

Scheme manager, Frainc Mac Cionnaith, Enterprise and Business Development Manager with Glór na nGael said: ‘These businesses understand the central role our language plays in the culture and identity of the country.

‘They recognise that the Irish language is a unique competitive advantage that attracts customers, and the number of businesses taking advantage of this opportunity is constantly increasing.’

Cape Clear Ferries enjoyed a busy summer season with passengers coming from all over Ireland and also the US, UK, France and Germany.

‘We’re already looking ahead to 2026 and making plans. We’re not in the golden triangle of Dublin, Galway and Kerry, and as popular as West Cork is, it can be a bit of a harder push to get visitors down here so we’re meeting tour operators to build connections all the time,’ said Karen.

The couple will both mark their 50th birthdays and 20-year anniversary in business in 2027, with plenty more celebrations ahead. They are looking forward to a busy season in 2026.