Government predictions of an increase in visitors this season could become a reality if hoteliers' optimism comes true.

General managers at some of the Island's accommodations are predicting their charges will at least match last year's numbers and some added that they were hoping to increase their guest numbers for the peak summer months.

If that were to happen, it would be music to Tourism Minister David Allen's ears.

He has said he is hoping for a 2.5 percent rise in air arrivals this year to show evidence of the declining numbers bottoming out and setting the stage for recovery.

But although hotels may attract the extra 8,800 guests required this year, the target is still dwarfed by the long term tourism goal of recovering 80,000 air visitors over the next four years.

And the estimates must be put in the context of the loss of 1,200 beds from the former Marriott Castle Harbour hotel in November and the Belmont hotel in 1998.

This took the number of available beds on the Island to below 7,000 for the first time in years.

Bermuda's largest hotel, the Fairmont Southampton Princess, already has peak summer month predictions above those recorded in 1999.

General manager Norman Mastalir said June, July and August were expected to be better than last year with an increase in family business compensating for a downturn in group bookings.

He forecast 97 percent occupancy for June, compared to 94 percent for the same month last year, and 90 percent in July, against 73 percent in July, 1999.

"We are very excited over the next three months,'' said Mr. Mastalir.

"Everybody is pretty optimistic about this summer.'' He added that tour operators were doing better this year and an expanded family programme at the South Shore hotel was paying dividends.

August was standing at around 63 percent at present, continued Mr. Mastalir, but was expected to pick up.

Grotto Bay Beach Hotel general manager J.P. Martens said bookings from June to August were heading for the mid-90s, a normal level for the Hamilton Parish accommodation.

He noted it was difficult to increase the margins when occupancy levels were in the 90s.

The hotel will still be taking part in the cruise and stay programme with the Norwegian Majesty , continued Mr. Martens.

He said he did not expect to see an increase above the 700 room nights sold last year.

The Sonesta Beach Resort is predicting a summer of occupancies in the mid-80s which would maintain figures recorded last year.

General manager John Murtha said the up-for-sale resort had solid group business and was looking to develop leisure bookings to bolster July and August business.

"Historically we are in the 80s and I am expecting our levels will be largely the same as last year,'' he said. "We are not expecting any improvements.'' After a record 1999, Pompano Beach Club is aiming to at least attain the same 80 percent overall occupancy levels this year but will try to better them.

Spokesman Tom Lamb said: "We would like to do 80 percent or higher. Right now we are ahead of last year.'' July and August are currently standing at 90 and 96 percent respectively, he added.

A buoyant May and June has led to Pompano having to turn away business, he noted.

Mr. Lamb added that he hoped that flourishing trade would continue into the autumn months.

White Sands new general manager Esan Frederick said the 35 room Paget hotel was aiming to equal last year's performance and reach a June to August occupancy level of 85 to 90 percent.

"We hope to get a few more, but for the most part it is looking to be a pretty good high season,'' he said.