Topic: World Cup cruise bookings soar

Despite recent figures suggesting that many people will not let the World Cup affect their holiday plans this summer, a leading cruise provider has found things to be to the contrary.

Cruise118.com has seen a sharp rise in the number of bookings over the past two weeks from Brits hoping to enjoy the footie action while on a luxury liner.

It attributed the rise in sales to the announcement by three major cruise companies who have revealed they are to show the international tournament onboard.

"Many of our regular customers have been reluctant to book cruises, until hearing the news that cruise lines will be showing all the matches onboard," said Mal Barritt, director of Cruise118.com.

Azamara Club Cruises, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean have each obtained the rights to air the event, which is due to kick off June 11th in South Africa.

In addition to watching the games, passengers will also be presented with World Cup themed activities, food and beverages.

The figures contradict a recent poll by HolidayExtras.com which found that 43 per cent of women and 26 per cent of men are not interested in the footie tournament at all.

Hands up all those who thought they could escape the World Cup by going on a cruise!

I would avoid at all costs if I thought the World Cup was going to be taking over my cruise!