Hurtigruten Honored as Best Expedition Cruise Line at 2017 Travvy Awards

Known as the Academy Awards of the travel industry, the Travvy Awards recognizes the highest standards of excellence in the travel industry and honors travel companies, travel products, travel agencies and destinations for their outstanding achievement. In a record year of over 100,000 travel agent votes, Hurtigruten has cemented its place at the top of expedition travel.

“It is truly an honor for Hurtigruten to be named the gold winner at the Travvy Awards,” said Gordon Dirker, Managing Director of Hurtigruten North America. “Over 100,000 travel agents voted this year and the award truly highlights Hurtigruten's prominence in the industry, demonstrating our place as a pioneer in expedition travel.”

Travel suppliers, destinations and individuals from all over the world are eligible to submit their nominations to be considered for the honor of being recognized as an innovator in the industry. This year, over 100,000 votes – the largest voting block of travel agents in history – were cast to determine the 2017 Travvy Awards winners. These winners were honored during an awards dinner and presentation attended by the finalists, industry leaders and travel professionals on Wednesday, January 25, 2017 at Gotham Hall in New York City.

Expedition travel is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the tourism industry. Hurtigruten's offers unique immersive nature and cultural experiences across the globe and is building the first cruise ship that can operate under hybrid electric power.

Hurtigruten is the world leader in exploration travel and the largest cruise operator in Antarctica, sailing to the most remote destinations as well as year-round along Norway's coast. The company's fleet of intimate ships, which each carry 100 to 646 guests, allows travelers to enjoy the scenery and culture of the destination in a relaxed atmosphere. Hurtigruten is building the world's first hybrid cruise ship. Known for being at the forefront of expedition and adventure travel, Hurtigruten has been honored as TravelAge West's WAVE (Western Agents' Votes of Excellence) 2016 “Best Expedition Cruise Line,” USA Today's Readers' Choice “The Best Boutique Cruise Line,” and Travvy Awards' 2016 “Best Polar Expedition Operator” and “Best Shore Excursion.” Additional information, brochures, and reservations can be obtained from travel agents or Hurtigruten's website, www.hurtigruten.us; and by phone at +1 (866) 552-0371.