Visitors to Irish lighthouses have more than doubled since 2018 - attracting 350,000 visitors annually and lighthouse tourism is generating more than €33 million per year.
A report by KHSK on the socio-economic impact of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland (GLI) initiative, now in its tenth year, found it is supporting 696 jobs across coastal communities.
The initiative offers 16 visitor sites and more than 20 visitor-experiences at lighthouses from Valentia to Rathlin.
Chief executive of Irish Lights Yvonne Shields O'Connor says ten years of Great Lighthouses - an all-island initiative - has shown "heritage can create real opportunity".
She said through partnerships, they have built a model that protects lighthouses and strengthens communities.
"This contributes to a wider economic impact of €33 million, much of which flows directly into small businesses, accommodation providers, food producers, and local services.
"Our vision is clear: build on this foundation and make Great Lighthouses a global example of sustainable tourism.
"We aim to increase tourism revenues by 25% by 2030, as part of a 5-year strategic plan initiated this year."
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The GLI initiative is supported by Fáilte Ireland, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Tourism Ireland, Tourism Northern Ireland, Bord Iascaigh Mhara, and Local Authorities.
Diane Ní Chanáin, Marketing Manager at Teach Solais Fhánada, a community owned and operated social enterprise located on the Fánaid Peninsula in Co Donegal, says a community-based approach has been pivotal to their success.
"It's successful because it's community-based and community-focused. Visitors notice the authenticity, and everybody loves the magic of a lighthouse."
Bo Wall, who travelled from Florida, told RTÉ News Teach Solais Fhánada "is a great piece of Irish history - beautiful and inspiring".
Those sentiments were echoed by other tourists who spoke during their visit to the lighthouse on the Fánaid Peninsula.
Brian and Carrie Bolton from Boston described the experience as "unbelievable".
"I love that you can walk close to the edge - in the states - everything would be blocked off with ropes."
Greg Mulally who travelled from Vancouver said he was delighted that "they found it [Teach Solais Fhánada] on the website months ago and were able to make a reservation".
"It’s hard to take a bad picture. It’s stunning," he said.
GLI Chairperson Bobby Kerr says the business model behind the Great Lighthouses of Ireland is unique.
"We bring together community groups, local operators, public agencies, and tourism partners to create experiences that are authentic and sustainable.
"This collaboration has breathed life into remote places, creating opportunities for small businesses and families, while keeping our maritime heritage alive."
Majella Mooney from the Narrow Quarter bistro and coffee house in Kerrykeel says Teach Solais Fhánada has helped footfall significantly.
"We have seen a difference since the lighthouse became operational. Many people stop with us before or after visiting it. It’s been really positive and great for footfall."
As part of the tenth anniversary of this all-island initiative, Irish Lights and GLI will host an International Marine, Lighthouse Tourism and Maritime Heritage Conference in Dublin Castle next Monday and Tuesday.
The two-day conference will bring together lighthouse and marine tourism experts from across the globe.
The Commissioners of Irish Lights, the maritime organisation that operates more than 60 lighthouses, also delivers essential safety and navigation services around the coastline.
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