Ambassador Cruise Line Named Leicestershire Cricket’s Exclusive Partner
Former Leicestershire and England cricketer Jonathan Agnew will join Ambassador's five-night Cricket Legends Festive Getaway aboard Ambience, departing December 13, 2026.
Ambassador Cruise Line has signed a multi-year partnership with Leicestershire County Cricket Club, with exclusive cruise line partner status due to begin in the 2027 season. The agreement includes marketing rights, discounts for members and supporters, and headline sponsorship of a Metro Bank One Day Cup fixture.
The cruise line joins initially as an official partner, gaining advertising space at Uptonsteel Grace Road County Ground and access to the club’s audience through its digital channels. The fixture sponsorship will begin alongside the exclusive arrangement.
Leicestershire members will receive a 5 percent discount on Ambassador sailings plus £50 in onboard credit. Supporters will be eligible for a 5 percent reduction across all sailings.
“Many of our guests are passionate cricket fans,” said Gordon Nardini, chief marketing officer at Ambassador Cruise Line. He said the partnership would give the operator an opportunity to introduce its cruises to Foxes supporters.
The marketing package includes pitch-side advertising and appearances in the club’s matchday guide. Website features, social media activity and dedicated emails will promote Ambassador’s ships, UK departure ports and sailing programme to members and supporters.
Ambassador will also be able to engage with fans at selected home matches and produce content featuring Leicestershire players. Other elements include ground signage and big-screen advertising, along with digital campaigns throughout the season.
Cricket-themed sailing to feature Jonathan Agnew
The agreement comes ahead of former Leicestershire and England cricketer Jonathan Agnew’s appearance on Ambassador’s Cricket Legends Festive Getaway. The five-night voyage aboard Ambience leaves London Tilbury, the operator’s principal departure port, on December 13, 2026.
Agnew will be joined by Graham Gooch, the former England captain, and Angus Fraser, who also played for England. Other participants include broadcaster Garry Richardson, Test Match Special’s Henry Blofeld and David “Bumble” Lloyd, the former England and Lancashire cricketer and coach.
The itinerary includes Bremerhaven, IJmuiden for visits to Amsterdam, and Zeebrugge for Bruges. Guests will get the chance to meet the featured cricketers and broadcasters. Stage shows, “Audience With” sessions and a sports quiz are scheduled during the voyage.
