The Island's newest resort says occupancy levels have nearly doubled after it slashed rates in a bid to bring in more guests.

And 9 Beaches Resort general manager Marcus Jones yesterday thanked Bermudians for supporting the new venture during a very difficult start-up period.

Last month the Somerset resort, which provides accommodation in specially built beachside cabanas, confirmed that it was struggling, despite a significant renovation and massive marketing effort costing nearly $8 million in the first year. Summer occupancy rates were reportedly below 50 percent, while the off-season occupancies were between 30 and 40 percent ? well below projections.

In what was viewed by some as a last ditch effort to boost its off-season occupancy rate, the resort, which opened at the start of the summer, slashed its prices by almost half to offer accommodation from as little as $85 a night.

And the specials have paid off.

Last night Mr. Jones said the resort is sitting at 82 percent occupancy for the weekend with a 50 percent booking so far for October.

He said Bermudians were making use of the opportunities to stay at 9 Beaches and the special of $199 for cabana, dinner and breakfast was a big hit.

He said while it has been a lean year for most hotels in Bermuda, 9 Beaches would end off the year with "half a loaf, rather than no loaf at all", adding that bookings for the special close on Monday, October 17, but were valid through to January 2 next year.

The off-season specials are just another way the owners are committed to making the property work.

Mr. Jones denied that this was the last throw of the dice for the resort but once again made an appeal for the public to continue supporting the new venture during its first year and to continue to patronise its "wonderful cabanas and restaurants".