Our Story

Butlers Bus Tours has been a proud family-run business for the past 58 years, a legacy that began in July 1967 with our visionary founder, Seanie Butler. At the age of 36, Seanie embarked on his journey into the transport industry with a serendipitous opportunity. When a friend sought someone to take over payments on a VW Minibus, Seanie stepped in, little knowing the path he would forge.

As fate would have it, Youghal Carpet Yarns, a prominent local factory, was seeking reliable transport for their shift workers, leading to our company's first long-term contract. Soon after, local sports clubs and schools recognized Seanie's dependable service, and his business flourished.

While diligently building his business and raising his eight children with his wife Eileen, Seanie's entrepreneurial spirit never waned. In 1993, he transitioned to semi-retirement, allowing him more time for his lifelong passion: sports.

Seanie embraced an active life with remarkable vigour, participating in running, cycling, hurling, and road bowling, among other pursuits. His dedication to sport was extraordinary, even lining out for his last competitive hurling match at the impressive age of 73, where he scored a goal and two points. Demonstrating his enduring vitality, he climbed the Vee Gap Mountain on his 80th birthday and continued with regular cycling trips of up to 50km.

Sadly, Seanie passed away on October 16th, 2018, at the age of 87. He was a true legend, whose spirit of dedication, community, and passion continues to inspire us all. He is deeply missed.

Taking the helm in 1993, Ian immediately demonstrated a commitment to the future of Butlers Bus Tours, making significant investments in a modern fleet of touring vehicles.

A self-taught programming enthusiast, Ian was also a forward-thinking early adopter of the internet as a business tool, launching his first self-made website in 1997.

While initially a modest endeavor, this early foray into the digital world proved effective. Leveraging the burgeoning power of the internet and a dedication to continuous learning, Ian significantly propelled the touring side of the business.

As the Managing Director, Ian expertly oversees all facets of the company's operations. His strong leadership has successfully navigated Butlers Bus Tours through numerous significant challenges over the years, including economic downturns and the unprecedented impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Knowing that future challenges are inevitable, Ian remains steadfast in his commitment to guiding Butlers Bus Tours forward with the same resolute leadership he has demonstrated throughout the years.

Kevin Butler became an integral part of the management team in 2003 and has since been instrumental in the company's expansion.

As Transport Manager, Kevin's primary responsibility is ensuring that our entire fleet of vehicles operates in impeccable condition and adheres rigorously to all complex legal requirements.

A natural leader, Kevin also plays a pivotal role in shaping our team, overseeing the recruitment, comprehensive training, and day-to-day management of all our drivers.

He has established an impressive and thorough six-month training program for all new recruits, guaranteeing the highest standards of professionalism and safety.

Although we have gone from strength to strength over the years we still very much remain a small family run operation with that 'personal touch'.

Today we have one of the most modern fleets of tour coaches in Ireland with 21 vehicles in total.

Our plan for the future is to continue to advance our tour services while remaining the first choice tour bus company in Ireland.