Ballycastle seafront hotel no longer on the market as Marine Hotel partners with Schulte European Group

In the week that Ballycastle was named as the Sunday Times’ Best Place to Live in Northern Ireland, the town’s seafront hotel announced that it was no longer up for sale.

The owners of the four-star Marine Hotel, Claire Hunter and Colum McLornan, announced the appointment of Schulte European Group as the

The Marine Hotel in Ballycastle. CREDIT MARINE HOTELplaceholder image
The Marine Hotel in Ballycastle. CREDIT MARINE HOTEL

hotel’s new management operator.

After 13 years of ownership and operation, the pair said they “made the strategic decision to partner with an experienced international hospitality operator to support the hotel’s next phase of growth”.

Vincent Levy (Managing Director Europe at Schulte Hospitality Group) , Claire Hunter (Marine Hotel), and Olga Henry (Marine Hotel GM). CREDIT MARINE HOTELplaceholder image
Vincent Levy (Managing Director Europe at Schulte Hospitality Group) , Claire Hunter (Marine Hotel), and Olga Henry (Marine Hotel GM). CREDIT MARINE HOTEL

Colum McLornan said: “We considered selling the hotel in 2025, but the opportunity to retain ownership while partnering with an experienced operator made this an easy decision.

"It secures the long-term future of the Marine Hotel while allowing us to focus on other business interests.”

Claire Hunter said: “After spending time with Vincent and the Schulte team in Ballycastle, it was clear they share our vision for the Marine Hotel. Their experience and understanding of both the local and international market make them the ideal partner to take the hotel forward while preserving its unique character.”

The hotel will continue to be led on the ground by General Manager Olga Henry, ensuring continuity for both guests and staff, while benefiting from the wider expertise, systems and international reach of Schulte European Group.

Vincent Levy commented: “We are proud to partner with the Marine Hotel Ballycastle at such an exciting stage in its journey. Claire and Colum have built something truly special, and we look forward to supporting the team in unlocking its full potential while preserving its strong identity and values.”

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