Wide-ranging changes have been recommended as part a radical action plan to re-crown Bermuda as the number one island destination in the world.

A secret document, called for by Government and put together by the private sector, could form the basis of efforts to save Bermuda's largest employer and oldest industry.

The top secret report, which has been obtained by the Royal Gazette , sets out a strategy for restoring the tourist industry -- but only with a host of innovative measures.

Preliminary aims include increasing air arrivals to 500,000, keep cruise ship numbers down to 170,000, boost daily visitor spending by 20 percent and increase hotel occupancies to 70 percent. And the "Bermuda Tourism Private Sector Long Term Strategy'' aims to boost European visitors to the Island by making Euro room nights 20 percent of the total.

In addition, it is planned to improve bookings in the November to April period.

A statement by the group said: "Clearly our tourism industry is in jeopardy.

A formula for change is essential.

"Bermuda was regarded as the leader in island tourism. We believe that position can be re-captured.'' To do that, the study suggests changing the way Bermuda is marketed overseas, by focusing on distinct categories of affluent travellers with combined incomes above $100,000.

Private sector hatches tourism plan Around 2,000 elite travel agents would be targeted to ensure that market can be reached, also by identifying a "Bermuda image'' and refining advertising efforts to zoom in on consumer media.

In a bid to tackle the high airfares, the conduit group believes more competition, customer rebates or incentives could bring prices down. An expansion of the current single European gateway is also highlighted.

The report recognises the need to improve the on-Island product by investing in physical and human capital.

Proposed solutions include making the entire Hamilton waterfront a tourist attraction by relocating the container docks, better transportation, restaurants, hotels and environment.

The report said the proposals will require a change in the choices and actions of Bermuda's private and public sector businesses.

It says hotels should share visitor lists to help marketing and a coordinated market research should be available to all industry partners.

The report has already been presented to Minister of Tourism David Allen and is now being shown to the private sector in order to gain input and further refine the strategy before it goes forward.

If it is accepted, then it is planned to start implementing the scheme later this year to impact the 2001 season. It is hoped some of the numbers will start to improve by 2003 and a visitor experience relaunch could take place by May 2002.

CHART Private Sector Tourism Strategy By 2003: Increase air arrivals from 354,000 to 500,000.

Take cruise numbers to 170,000 from 192,000.

Increase daily visitor spending by 20 percent.

Increase hotel occupancies to 70 percent.

Reduce staff layoff days by 15 percent.

Other aims: Decrease airfares.

Increase Euro visitors.

Make Hamilton docks a tourist attraction.