The interest rate for the loan has yet to decided, but the company may refer to a HK$1.2 billion raised by Melco International Development (0200) at the end of last year, financial controller Simon Luk said Friday.

Macau Success operates the cruise ship MV Macau Success and is also involved in gaming and entertainment.

Ponte 16, a joint venture on the bank of the inner harbor in Macau, includes the five-star hotel Sofitel Macau@Ponte 16 that offers 404 rooms and 19 VIP mansions; a 50,000-square-meter shopping arcade and a casino.

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The resort is subject to Macau government approval.

Macau Success will own 49 percent of the project once it completes the acquisition of a 12.25 percent stake from Joy Idea while Sociedade de Jogos de Macau will hold 51 percent. "Ponte 16 should be earnings accretive in 2007," the company said.

Total investment is HK$2.43 billion, with Macau Success committing HK$1.2 billion.

The 27,000-sqm casino at Ponte 16, scheduled for completion in June, will provide 150 ordinary tables, 24 VIP tables and 300 slot machines. The ordinary tables will be operated and managed by the joint-venture company, while Macau Success is responsible for the 24 VIP tables, executive director Marco Lee Siu-cheung said.

The casino has set a target of 6,800 visitors everyday, he said.

Despite the growing number of casinos in the region, the company believes the surge in tourist arrivals, especially mainlanders, will more than offset heightened competition.

Besides, its strategic location - a two-minute ferry ride from Zhuhai - will draw visitors, the company said.

The hotel is set for completion by year-end. The standard room will be priced at HK$1,000, while the rate for mansions will be HK$20,000. The arcade will be completed in March 2008.

Macau Success said Thursday its full-year net profit to the end of September jumped 130.9 percent to HK$28.4 million. Turnover increased by 2.6 percent to HK$103.5 million.