Cruise guests sailing with several Carnival Corporation brands in 2026 will be able to watch every match of the FIFA World Cup live at sea.
Princess Cruises, Cunard, Holland America Line, Seabourn and P&O Cruises confirmed on 16th December 2025 that they have secured the rights to broadcast all 104 matches of the 2026 tournament. Coverage will run from 11th June to 19th July 2026 via the Sport 24 Special Event Channels.
The FIFA World Cup, held once every four years, is one of the most watched sporting events in the world. The 2026 edition will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico, with global broadcast rights held by sports media company IMG.
While five Carnival Corporation brands are already confirmed, additional cruise lines may still finalise agreements closer to the start of the tournament.
Where Guests Can Watch Matches Onboard
The matches will be available both in staterooms and in public venues across the ships, giving guests multiple ways to watch live coverage while sailing.
On Cunard ships, screenings will take place in the Golden Lion pub, while P&O Cruises will show matches in its Brodie’s venue.
Games involving England will receive special prominence, with larger screenings planned in the SkyDome on P&O Cruises ships and The Pavilion on Cunard vessels, reflecting strong demand from UK-based guests.
Holland America Line and Princess Cruises will broadcast selected matches on outdoor Lido Deck screens, weather permitting.
Holland America Line will also screen matches in its World Stage theatres, while Princess Cruises plans to host organised viewing parties where guests are encouraged to wear their team’s colours.
“From private staterooms to open-air decks, guests will be able to enjoy the atmosphere and excitement of the tournament as we bring the spirit of the stadiums to sea next summer,” said Kate Garden, commercial director of IMG.
Cruises Sailing During the Tournament
The cruise lines have highlighted a wide range of itineraries that will coincide with the World Cup, allowing guests to combine live football with destination-focused holidays.
On Holland America Line, Noordam will feature the broadcasts during its 7-day Alaska Explorer cruise sailing roundtrip from Seattle on 5th July 2026, with calls at Ketchikan, Juneau and Sitka. For guests seeking a longer voyage, Zuiderdam’s 14-day Canada and New England cruise departs Boston on 20th June 2026.
Princess Cruises has also outlined several sailings that align with the tournament schedule. These include a 7-night Mediterranean cruise onboard Sun Princess from Athens to Barcelona departing 20th June 2026, as well as Diamond Princess’ 9-night Circle Japan itinerary, sailing roundtrip from Yokohama on 2nd July 2026.
“The FIFA World Cup is one of the most fan-driven global events, and our guests shouldn’t have to choose between exploring the world and watching the world’s best teams compete,” said Lorna Warren, vice president of hotel operations and guest experience for Princess Cruises.
“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,” added Warren.
With cruises operating across multiple regions throughout the summer of 2026, the broadcasts are expected to be a major draw for football fans keen to follow every moment of the tournament without missing their holiday.
Don’t worry if you aren’t a football fan, though – the ships will have plenty of venues where you can escape it!
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