Hurtigruten and its subsidiary Spitsbergen Travel have unveiled a new multi-day "Crystal Clear and Colorful" land-based program for travelers exploring the Svalbard archipelago this October. Spitsbergen is located on the southern fringe of the Arctic Ocean near Norway and is home to the world's largest population of polar bears. The English-language "Crystal Clear and Colorful" land package, which is offered October 1-31 when cruises are not available in Spitsbergen, showcases the unique beauty and excitement of the island, including such highlights as an Icefjord safari, dogsledding on wheels and a wilderness evening camp. Packages can be booked as part of three-, four- or five-day tours, starting at $782 per person, double.

Regardless of the length of stay, all guests of the "Crystal Clear and Colorful" program experience three exciting excursions:

• Icefjord Safari in Polarcirkel Boats: Guests, equipped with exposure suits, enjoy water-based exploration and breathtaking panoramic views in a 26-foot open boat. Sights explored include the abandoned Russian mining settlement of Grumant, Fuglefjellet, Advent City and Hiorthhamn.
• Dog Sledding on Wheels: No snow? No problem! Perfect for participants who want to experience Spitsbergen's Arctic nature close up, a "dog cart" led by six huskies takes guests out for a round of dog sledding on wheels.
• Wilderness Evening Camp: In a remote Husky camp located outside Longyearbyen, upwards of 100 dogs excitedly welcome visitors. Guests can take in a panoramic view over the valley and mountains before cozying up to a fire and learning about life in the Svalbard. Participants can also help to prepare and enjoy a dish of local delicacies, such as Arctic char and reindeer.

Another cultural highlight of this season is the "Dark Season Blues Festival." Held in Longyearbyen October 24-27, it is recognized as the world's northernmost blues festival. Featuring several international blues bands, a range of concerts, a six-hour music marathon and a blues jam, this unique atmosphere is a stylish celebration of Spitsbergen's entry into the "dark season," during which the sun does not rise above the horizon for four months. 

Hurtigruten, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary this year, sails to the most remote of destinations, including Antarctica, Greenland and the Arctic's Spitsbergen, as well as year round along Norway's coast and Europe in the spring and fall. The company's fleet of 12 intimate ships, carrying 100 to 646 guests, allows travelers to enjoy the scenery and culture of the destination in a relaxed atmosphere. Additional information, brochures and reservations can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's visitor-friendly website, www.hurtigruten.us; by phone at 877-301-3117; fax at 888-524-2145. To order brochures 24 hours a day, call 800-582-0835.

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Gillies and Zaiser

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Pomona, NY 10970-2646

HTN-15-August 2013