When I first learned that Princess Cruise Lines had partnered up with the Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears, San Franciso 49ers, and Houston Texans, I was puzzled. Luxury cruise line partnerships with the NFL? It just doesn’t seem like it would add up…but it does.

Princess Cruises is the third largest cruise line in the world, and each year is responsible for offering unique luxury cruising experiences to almost 2 million people. From lavish cabins with private balconies to poolside ‘Movies Under the Stars,’ guests can enjoy countless entertainment, accommodations, and dining options to suit the most selective tastes. So where exactly does football come in?

While there are a number of different demographics brands look into before deciding which market to target, age and income are two very important factors in both the travel and sports industries. The average cruise attendee is 48 years old with an average household income of $97,000. Similarly, the average age of an NFL fan is 43 years old, with an average household income of $94,000 .

According to ESPN, men make up an estimated 54.7% of U.S. football fans. This means that the remaining 45.3% of viewers are women (whether they are watching voluntarily or by proximity). Either way, this is a strong presence for both genders. By advertising during an NFL game, Princess Cruise Lines has the opportunity to target an entirely different group of consumers. The brand’s ads will reach not only many male sports fanatics, but also their wives and children, a demographic that is largely responsible for travel planning.

In addition to targeting new consumers, Princess Cruise Lines is easily accessible for many of the football fans in the brand’s partnering home towns. The cruise line offers vacations leaving from NFL hot spots like Seattle, Ft. Lauderdale, Houston, and San Francisco, meaning there’s a chance for fans to plan a trip around seeing a game, and catching the next ship out for a relaxing getaway.

We often see destinations and attractions pairing up with similar brands in co-marketing efforts, and while it is a great option for similar brands, it is also worthwhile to explore partnerships that are outside your industry. What are some of the most memorable brand partnerships you’ve seen? Share them with us in the Comments section.