If you have already spotted the giant adidas Trionda wrapped around Science World, keep an eye on the waters of False Creek as well.
A version of the precious cargo, the official 2026 FIFA World Cup match soccer ball, is now hitching rides atop the miniature passenger ferries that frequent the inlet along the south side of the Downtown Vancouver peninsula.
Select vessels operated by Aquabus and False Creek Ferries have been fitted with oversized replicas of the Trionda mounted on their roofs, turning the passenger ferries into floating FIFA World Cup decorations as they travel between stops throughout False Creek.
These longtime services in the waterway operate across the length of False Creek, connecting destinations ranging from Plaza of Nations and Olympic Village near Science World in the eastern end to Granville Island, Sunset Beach Park, and Vanier Park in the western end, with various stops in between.
During the FIFA World Cup, both companies are operating increased frequencies, particularly on the seven match days at BC Place Stadium.
The floating soccer balls make for a particularly playful sight when viewed alongside Science World, where the landmark geodesic dome has been transformed into a giant replica of the Trionda through the month-long installation of 131 banner panels that reached completion in early June.
From some vantage points in False Creek, the ferries pass directly in front of the giant soccer ball, creating an extra whimsical FIFA World Cup scene on the water.
The floating soccer balls are not limited to rooftop decorations. In a promotional stunt earlier this year, False Creek Ferries also enlisted some of its vessels for an impromptu soccer match, with their boats nudging a giant inflatable soccer ball through the water as if it were kicking toward the goal.
There are, of course, other extensive FIFA World Cup decorations, dressings, and signage throughout Vancouver, especially in and around the Downtown Vancouver peninsula.
The tournament’s branding can also be found across TransLink’s public transit network, including a full wrap on one of the SeaBus ferries. The public transit authority has deployed a fleet of seven soccer-themed buses featuring exterior wraps and oversized soccer balls mounted to their fronts. As well, one train operating on SkyTrain’s Millennium Line carries a soccer-themed wrap.
Additionally, one of the Hullo Ferries vessels operating between Downtown Vancouver and Nanaimo has been wrapped with official FIFA World Cup branding.
Originally published on Daily Hive.
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