Jack’s Alt Stays Ltd was launched in 2022 and currently has five cabins individually designed to appeal to couples and families looking for a unique, high quality island experience.

Each cabin has its own theme, with high-end fittings, a hot tub and landscaping. Renewable energy and water collection and recycling add to their environmental credentials.

In its first year, the business hosted 1,950 guests and recorded 95% occupancy. This high demand along with positive reviews has prompted the company’s £358,173 project to develop three more cabins offering accommodation for a further 12 guests.

The new cabins are expected to be completed in the autumn and will create three part-time jobs on the island.

Great Cumbrae and its main town, Millport, are easily accessible via a ten-minute ferry ride from Largs and a popular destination for day trippers. While it is well served with caravan, campervan and B&B facilities, as well as a hotel and holiday flats, Jack’s Alt Stays is the only provider aimed at the growing luxury market.

Liam Orr, HIE’s head of business growth for Argyll and the Islands, said: “Great Cumbrae is a popular and easily accessible destination for visitors, with potential to expand the market.

“This project will enhance the tourism offering on the island, particularly the diversity of accommodation available. It will promote entrepreneurship and fair work principles while creating employment and generating income. This in turn benefits the local economy and strengthens community resilience.

“I’m very pleased we’ve been able to provide support and look forward to working with Jack’s Alt Stays as they develop the new cabins.”

Daniel Jack, co-founder of Jack’s Alt-Stays, said: “We are delighted to have received this support from HIE as we work towards expanding our site in Millport from five to eight uniquely themed cabins. Since launching our family business two years ago, we’ve run at near-full capacity year-round, providing unforgettable 5-star travel experiences.

“This expansion will enable us to attract a further 1,200 high value overnight visitors to the Isle of Cumbrae each year, and create a further three local year-round jobs. We greatly appreciate HIE’s vital support in making this growth possible.”