CIE Tours Strengthens Its Morristown Ties
with Lead Sponsorship of the
St. Patrick’s Day Parade of Morris County
MORRISTOWN — CIE Tours has long been a leader in Irish tourism, but its deep ties to Morris County are less well known. Strengthening its commitment to the local community, the company has stepped up as Leadership Sponsor of the 2025 Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Founded in Ireland over 90 years ago as a subsidiary of the Irish national transport company, CIE Tours U.S. headquarters has been located in Morristown since 1990. With more than 130 employees across offices in the U.S., Dublin and the U.K., the company provides a wide variety of guided vacations to more than 35,000 North American travelers each year.
“As an Irish-owned company, Morristown was a natural fit for our U.S. headquarters, given its strong Irish community,” said Stephen Cotter, the Dublin-based Managing Director of CIE Tours.
“Beyond that, it’s a great place to do business, with proximity to New York City, major transportation routes and a highly skilled workforce. Many of our employees are local, while a few Irish-born team members have relocated and fallen in love with the area.”
As the parade’s inaugural Leadership Sponsor, CIE Tours has committed $12,500 in support, along with a trip for two to Ireland — valued at up to $5,700 — which will be raffled at the parade’s Grand Marshal Reception on March 7.
“It’s only recently that we’ve become more active in local Irish community events, and we’re delighted to be involved,” Cotter said. “New Jersey is an important market for us, so being a more visible presence here makes sense.”
A Growing Portfolio
As part of its long-term strategy, CIE Tours is expanding its offerings at the fastest pace in a decade. Already the leading tour operator from the U.S. to Ireland, the company also runs successful tours in Scotland, England and Wales. It introduced tours to Iceland and Italy in 2019 and is debuting a new nine-day tour of Spain this year.
“We know people love traveling with us — our customer satisfaction ratings consistently exceed 95 percent — so we’re giving them more ways to experience Europe with us,” Cotter said.
“For most, Ireland is their first introduction to CIE Tours, but others begin with Italy or Iceland and go on to explore more of what we offer. One couple is even embarking on their 18th tour with us this year — now that’s a relationship that has stood the test of time.”
The CIE Tours Difference
CIE Tours’ success is founded on a commitment to exceptional service, carefully crafted itineraries and authentic experiences. What sets the company apart from competitors is its All-In Inclusive Advantage. Everything on a CIE Tours guided vacation is included in the upfront price, with no hidden charges, add ons, or unexpected expenses. From hotels and transportation to attractions, entertainment and most meals, travelers can relax knowing every detail has been covered.
At the heart of the experience are CIE Tours’ renowned tour directors, who do far more than lead the way.
“They wear many hats — historians, storytellers, entertainers, even magicians — making the logistics of travel fade into the background so guests can simply enjoy the journey,” Cotter said.
With its unmatched buying power in Ireland, CIE Tours can pass savings along to travelers while delivering an experience that is seamless, enriching and stress-free.
Expanding in Ireland
With nearly 25 different pre-set itineraries to Ireland or Ireland and the U.K. and an unlimited number of custom options, CIE Tours has more ways to visit the Emerald Isle than any other tour operator. For 2025, it is introducing Irish Supreme, a small-group luxury tour featuring five- star accommodations, including an overnight in a castle, paired with world-class dining and unique cultural experiences.
Looking ahead to 2026, the company will debut new walking and hiking tours, catering to travelers who want an active vacation.
“There’s growing demand for trips that blend adventure with cultural exploration,” Cotter said. “These tours will feature guided hikes through Ireland’s stunning landscapes, visits to historic castles and hands-on experiences like traditional farm life. At the end of each day, travelers will unwind in hand-picked four-star hotels, striking the perfect balance of activity and relaxation.”
Sustainability Commitment
CIE Tours is also leading the way in sustainable tourism. The company has conducted a comprehensive assessment to better understand its carbon footprint, which is primarily driven by transatlantic air travel, with a smaller impact from tour components — such as coaches, attractions and accommodations — as well as operations in its offices in the U.S., Ireland and the U.K.
To mitigate its environmental impact, CIE Tours has developed a decarbonization strategy as part of its Responsible Tourism Policy. The company is working closely with key partners — including the Guinness Storehouse, Dalata Hotel Group and Aer Lingus — to share sustainability best practices and implement initiatives that reduce overall emissions
In addition, the company has launched a Sustainability Action Fund to support environmental and community projects in the regions where it operates. Current initiatives include conservation efforts in Ireland’s Burren region and support for a youth club in Dublin.
With its growing involvement in the Morristown community, Cotter hopes to extend the fund’s reach locally.
“We’re actively looking for a project in the Morristown area to support,” he said. “As a longstanding member of the business community, we’re eager to make a meaningful impact.”
And for now, the company is excited to play a larger role in one of the area’s most celebrated traditions.
“We’re thrilled to be the Leadership Sponsor of the parade,” Cotter said. “I’m looking forward to seeing how this partnership grows in the years ahead.”
