A top hotel has boosted the island’s fishing industry with a massive increase in the amount of Bermudian-caught seafood used in its dishes.

The Hamilton Princess & Beach Club bought 10,802lbs of seafood from island fishermen last year, up more than 4,000lbs on the 6,634lbs logged for 2017.

The hotel increased its investment in locally grown produce and ingredients and in the fishing industry last year by increasing its spending on Bermudian products by 108 per cent.

Tim Morrison, general manager of the hotel, said: “We are pleased to be able to invest in local fishermen and farmers who provide us with the freshest and most delicious ingredients for our restaurants.

“With the finest ingredients, we can create incredible memories and Bermudian experiences for our guests.”

A spokeswoman for the hotel said the increase in the use of island-sourced produce underlined its commitment to support Bermudian businesses.

The Hamilton Princess also bought a wide range of domestic farm items such as honey, potatoes, lettuce and basil.

The hotel also increased its support for the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences’ bid to reduce the number of invasive lionfish in Bermuda’s waters by buying more fish from the organisation.

The lionfish were used as a part of a special menu throughout the year. Fishermen said they were happy with the support they received from the hotel.

Stephen Cabral added: “We’re thrilled to be strengthening our ties to Hamilton Princess & Beach Club and its restaurants.

“The hotel has an incredible reputation for delivering fresh and delicious food and we are pleased that some of this is down to the freshness of the fish that we deliver right to Marcus’ dock.”

Scott Tucker, founder of Bermy Fresh, said: “We are proud to supply Hamilton Princess & Beach Club with shoots, sprouts and herbs for their incredible chefs to use at their restaurants.

“The hotel recognises that the best food comes from the freshest ingredients and we appreciate their commitment to local producers.”

Local farmers that benefited from increased spending include Bee Lovers’ Beekeeping, Bermy Fresh, J&J Produce, Tucker’s Farm and Wadson’s Farm.