Visitor arrivals in February leapt nearly ten percent over last year’s total, Premier Ewart Brown revealed yesterday.

And he pointed out that with no cruise ships coming in that month all 12,804 tourists were the much coveted air arrivals.

He said: “This trend serves to encourage us in our efforts to promote Bermuda as a year-round destination.

“The market increase in visitors in what used to be known as the ‘off-season’ proves that we can make this pursuit a reality and that our aims in this area are achievable.”

Dr. Brown, who is also Tourism and Transport Minister, said the entry of JetBlue into the Bermuda to Boston market was a welcome addition to the bank of flights going to the gateway cities and he hinted more good news was on the way.

The daily JetBlue service between Boston and Bermuda starts from May 1, with fares starting at $99 one-way.

Dr. Brown told the House: “As we have seen in New York, Mr. Speaker, the introduction of low fares on an established route previously dominated by a legacy carrier has a dramatic effect on that market.

“The increase in visitors from the New York area is an effect we anticipate will be replicated in Boston.”

He said increased air lift was setting the stage for a recovery in tourism.

“This Boston/Bermuda service on Jet Blue comes as a vote of confidence in Bermuda and in this Government’s policies in tourism.

“I hope to announce new services out of Canada and Europe in the coming weeks.

“Our team has been hard at work to ensure continued success and Bermuda can be proud of their efforts.”

January arrivals were up 24 percent on last year to a total of 10,578.