Wednesday, October 22, 2025 - 15:43 by le-havre
When sport brings sea and land together in Le Havre!
A friendly match between the crew of the Emerald Princess and AS La Selle La Forge
On Sunday, October 12, Le Havre Croisières welcomed the Emerald Princess, part of the Princess Cruises fleet, during her call in Le Havre. Among the 2,888 passengers and 1,126 crew members, nine sailors left the ship’s deck for the grassy field in Épouville for a friendly football match against the local team, AS La Selle La Forge.
Organized by a player from the club – passionate about football, a cruise ship aficionado, and a professional in the maritime industry for BLB Cruises & Shorex – this second edition follows the success of the first meeting held during the Renaissance call of CFC Cruises on April 7, 2024.
Through Le Havre Croisières and in partnership with the Épouville Town Hall, the local sports complex hosted this unique encounter, where sea meets land and sport becomes a vehicle for sharing and connection.
On the field, playing 9-a-side, the AS La Selle La Forge players challenged crew members from various roles on board – bridge officers, cooks, technicians, maintenance, and casino staff. “There was no difference; everyone was on the same level,” said one player. “The Emerald Princess crew were thrilled – some hadn’t been ashore for several weeks.”
Before the match, the sailors invited the AS players to tour the ship and share a lunch on board, offering a privileged glimpse into their daily life at sea. After the match, the AS La Selle la Forge payers presented their opponents with a basket filled with Norman specialties, while Le Havre Croisières gave the sailors a few keepsakes to remember their stop in Le Havre.
“The atmosphere was extraordinary, full of fair play and good spirits – a wonderful symbol of the link between our worlds.” said the event coordinator.
Under a generous autumn sun, smiles replaced the score. This friendly match perfectly illustrates the spirit of openness and conviviality that characterizes Le Havre’s calls: human, lively, and where every encounter becomes a unique experience, emphasizes Le Havre Croisières.
