Orient-Express Hotels Ltd. later this year.

The company, which saw profits increase 14 percent to $40 million in 2000, was floated by Sea Containers last year.

Orient-Express had fourth quarter net earnings were $11.9 million compared with $12.4 million in the fourth quarter of 1999 which included a gain of $2.5 million.

Revenue in the fourth quarter of 2000 was $70 million, up nine percent from the year earlier period.

Orient-Express owns and operates 36 deluxe hotels, restaurants, tourist trains and inland cruise ships in 14 countries.

Simon Sherwood, president, said: "Although the US stock market seems to have recession 'jitters' the strengthening economies of Europe, Africa and South America have stimulated regional demand for the company's properties and forward bookings look promising.''