Princess Cruises Will Broadcast Every FIFA World Cup Match Across All 17 Ships
Princess Cruises secures rights to broadcast all 104 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches across its 17-ship fleet, with viewing parties on Lido Decks and in-cabin coverage via Sport 24.
Soccer fans planning a cruise during summer 2026 won’t have to choose between watching the biggest tournament in the sport and enjoying a vacation at sea. Princess Cruises announced this week that it has secured broadcast rights to air all 104 FIFA World Cup 26 matches across its entire 17-ship fleet.
The tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, marks a historic occasion—it’s the first World Cup hosted across three countries simultaneously. Mexico, Canada, and the United States will share hosting duties, and 48 national teams will compete for the title in what promises to be the largest World Cup ever staged.
How Guests Will Watch
Princess has partnered with IMG to bring Sport 24 Special Event Channels to every stateroom in the fleet. Whether you’re sailing through Alaska’s Inside Passage, cruising the Mediterranean, or exploring the Caribbean, you’ll be able to catch every goal, every save, and every dramatic penalty shootout from the comfort of your cabin.
But the in-cabin viewing is just one option. Princess is planning to transform its ships into floating fan zones, with marquee matches broadcast on the massive outdoor screens found on Lido Decks across the fleet. The cruise line is organizing viewing parties where guests can don their team jerseys and cheer alongside fellow fans—think of it as a stadium atmosphere, but with unlimited buffet access and an ocean view.
“By bringing live coverage to all 17 ships, we’re making sure fans can experience incredible destinations and cheer on every match whether they’re soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, taking in the Mediterranean coast, or sailing past glaciers in Alaska,” said Lorna Warren, VP of Hotel Operations and Guest Experience at Princess Cruises.
Itineraries That Align With the Tournament
Princess has identified several sailings that could be particularly appealing to soccer fans who want to combine their passion for the sport with a cruise vacation:
- Star Princess departs Seattle on June 14 for a 7-day Alaska Inside Passage voyage—perfect timing for the tournament’s opening matches
- Sun Princess sets sail from Rome on June 20 for a 7-day Mediterranean itinerary hitting Greece and the Adriatic
- Enchanted Princess offers a 7-day Mediterranean & Aegean voyage departing June 23
- Diamond Princess begins a 9-day Circle Japan cruise on July 2, covering the knockout rounds
- Caribbean Princess leaves Port Canaveral on July 12 for a 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruise—just in time for the semifinals and final
A Growing Trend in Cruise Entertainment
Princess isn’t the only Carnival Corporation brand getting in on the action. The announcement confirms that Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn, and P&O Cruises have also secured rights to broadcast all 104 World Cup matches. It’s a recognition that modern cruisers expect to stay connected to major world events even while at sea.
“We’re pleased to support Princess Cruises in delivering an unforgettable viewing experience for fans on board,” said Kate Garden, Commercial Director at IMG. “From private staterooms to open-air decks, guests will be able to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of the tournament.”
Booking Now
For those looking to lock in a World Cup cruise, Princess is currently running its “Come Aboard Sale” with some attractive incentives:
- Up to 40% off cruise fares
- Up to $500 in instant savings
- 50% off deposits
- Free third and fourth guest accommodations on select voyages
The 2026 World Cup is expected to draw unprecedented global attention, and cruise lines are positioning themselves to capture fans who want to experience the tournament in a unique setting. Whether your team makes it to the final or gets eliminated in the group stage, at least you’ll have glaciers, beaches, or ancient ruins to take your mind off the result.