Cornwall-Based Sapphire Holidays Acquires Island Escapes on the Isle of Man

Isle of Man agency joins Sapphire Holidays’ growing portfolio

Sapphire Holidays, the UK’s largest family-run holiday letting agency, has announced the acquisition of Island Escapes, the leading holiday letting agency on the Isle of Man.

The deal, revealed today (16th June), adds over 150 Manx properties to Sapphire’s books and marks another step in the company’s rapid expansion. It brings their total lettings portfolio to more than 2,850 properties across the UK and Crown Dependencies.

A strong local brand stays put

Founded in 2018, Island Escapes has built a reputation as the go-to provider of high-quality holiday accommodation on the Isle of Man. Known for its strong local brand and customer service, the business has won awards and now manages more than 150 properties across the island.

The Island Escapes name will stay in place and join Sapphire’s group of specialist holiday agencies, which already includes Classic Cottages, Aspects Holidays, Boutique Retreats and Unique Hideaways.

Simon Tregoning, owner and chairman of Sapphire Holidays, said:

“Island Escapes is a brilliant addition to the Sapphire family. The Isle of Man is a unique and exciting destination, and we’re thrilled to be able to introduce it to our loyal holidaymakers across the UK. This acquisition supports our strategy of expanding into high-quality, desirable locations while partnering with strong local brands that share our values.”

What’s happening next

John Keggin, who founded Island Escapes, will stay with the company as Commercial Director. The existing local team will remain in place, and the business will now operate under the Sapphire umbrella. New roles are also expected to be created at Sapphire’s headquarters in Hayle, Cornwall, through additional back-office support.

The deal also includes Homestay IOM, which manages accommodation for the TT and Manx Grand Prix on behalf of the Isle of Man Government. This service will continue with the current local team.

In the coming months, Island Escapes properties will start appearing on Classic Cottages, helping to introduce the Isle of Man to more UK-based holidaymakers.

Part of a wider expansion plan

This is the latest in a string of acquisitions for Sapphire Holidays, following recent deals with Ocean Cottages in North Devon and Grandeur Property Management in Dorset. The group now manages over 2,850 properties, generates more than £60 million in annual bookings, and employs 205 staff across the UK.

Sapphire Holidays is also a certified B Corporation, recognised for its standards in social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.