The New York Racing Association sets sail with Oceania Cruises in multi-platform partnership
The New York Racing Association, Inc. (NYRA) today announced a new multi-platform partnership with Oceania Cruises, the world’s leading destination- and culinary-focused luxury cruise line, which designates Oceania as the Official Cruise Line of Saratoga Race Course and Belmont Park.
The comprehensive agreement establishes Oceania Cruises as a premier partner across NYRA’s national television broadcasts, digital platforms and marquee racing events throughout the 2026 season.
As part of the agreement, FOX Saratoga Saturday will be presented by Oceania Cruises, giving the luxury cruise line a prominent presence throughout one of the premier summer sports and entertainment broadcasts in America. The seven-week series returns on Saturday, July 18, for its third consecutive year, showcasing the excitement and tradition of the Saratoga summer meet with 16 hours of live national coverage on FOX, culminating with the DraftKings Travers Day broadcast on Saturday, August 29.
“We are thrilled to set sail with NYRA on this groundbreaking partnership,” said Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer, Oceania Cruises. “Saratoga represents history and unforgettable memories while the new Belmont Park is a symbol of innovation and excellence—qualities that closely align with the Oceania Cruises brand. We look forward to introducing our luxury cruising experience to millions of racing fans throughout the 2026 season.”
Oceania Cruises will receive extensive brand integration across NYRA’s national television programming, including America’s Day at the Races, Saratoga Live, and FOX Saratoga Saturday. The partnership includes presenting sponsorship recognition, branded in-telecast features, verbal and logo integration throughout broadcasts, and customized storytelling opportunities that connect Oceania Cruises’ luxury travel experience with the excitement of thoroughbred racing.
In addition to broadcast visibility, Oceania Cruises will be featured across NYRA’s digital and social media platforms through custom branded content, sweepstakes promotions, and fan engagement initiatives. Highlights include a consumer sweepstakes for a chance to win a free cruise, and four VIP hospitality passes to the 2027 Belmont Stakes at the new Belmont Park, supported by promotional campaigns across NYRA’s digital channels.
“This partnership with Oceania Cruises further reinforces NYRA’s commitment to aligning with premium brands that enhance the fan experience while expanding the reach of thoroughbred racing,” said Kevin Quinn, VP for Sales and Hospitality, NYRA. “We are excited to welcome aboard Oceania Cruises as the official cruise line of Saratoga Race Course and Belmont Park.”
Following a three-year project to transform Belmont Park into a world-class sports and entertainment destination, a new and re-imagined Belmont Park will open for live racing on September 18.
Centered around a five-story grandstand featuring an array of fan amenities and hospitality offerings, Belmont Park will include four newly constructed racetracks along with a dramatically expanded paddock area and more generally accessible green space than ever before.
Highlighted by the 157th edition of the Grade I, $1.25 million DraftKings Travers on Saturday, August 29, and the Grade I, $1 million Whitney on Saturday, August 8, the ongoing summer meet at Saratoga Race Course continues through Monday, September 7.
ABOUT NYRA
NYRA is a not-for-profit corporation franchised by New York State to conduct thoroughbred racing at Belmont Park and Saratoga Race Course. NYRA tracks are the cornerstone of New York State’s horse racing economy, which is responsible for 19,000 jobs and more than $3 billion in annual statewide economic impact.
NYRA is the parent company of NYRA Bets, LLC, the national advanced deposit wagering platform launched in 2016 and currently available to customers in 38 states. The NYRA Bets app is available for download on iOS and Android at NYRABets.com.
ABOUT OCEANIA CRUISES®
Oceania Cruises® is the world’s leading destination- and culinary-focused luxury cruise line, celebrated for its port-rich voyages and authentic cultural and culinary experiences. The line’s intimate, luxurious ships feature an adults-only environment, with a high proportion of spacious rooms and suites, calling on more than 600 marquee and boutique ports in more than 100 countries across seven continents, with destination-intensive itineraries ranging from seven to 180 days. Aboard the designer-inspired ships, guests enjoy personalized service supported by a strong crew-to-guest ratio, alongside The Finest Cuisine at Sea®, prepared by one of the highest chef-to-guest ratios at sea. Oceania Cruises® is also recognized as one of the world’s most awarded cruise lines, with accolades spanning luxury, dining, service and destination experiences. Oceania Cruises® has five Sonata Class ships on order scheduled for delivery in 2027, 2029, 2032, 2035 and 2037. Oceania Cruises® is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH).
