What's Happening?
The Seattle Seahawks have announced a partnership with FRS Clipper, making the ferry service an official travel partner for fans traveling from Victoria to Seattle for games. This collaboration introduces 'Sailgate' sailings, which transform the ferry journey
into a pregame celebration with Seahawks-themed activities. The initiative aims to strengthen the connection between Victoria sports fans and Seattle's major league events. The partnership follows a successful trial during the Blue Jays' ALDS matchup, which saw high demand for travel from Victoria to Seattle.
Why It's Important?
This partnership underscores the growing trend of sports tourism, where fans travel significant distances to support their teams. By formalizing the travel experience, the Seahawks and FRS Clipper are tapping into a dedicated fan base, potentially increasing game attendance and enhancing fan engagement. This move also highlights the economic impact of sports tourism on local businesses, as fans are likely to spend on accommodations, dining, and other activities during their trips. For FRS Clipper, this partnership represents an opportunity to expand its services and capitalize on the sports tourism market.
What's Next?
The 'Sailgate' sailings are set to begin on November 8, with plans to accommodate up to 50 fans per trip. As the partnership develops, there may be opportunities to expand the service to include more games and potentially other sports events. The success of this initiative could lead to similar partnerships with other teams or sports, further solidifying the role of FRS Clipper in the sports tourism industry.
