Cruising Ducks: A Fun and Whimsical Tradition at Sea
If you’ve ever spotted a tiny rubber duck peeking out from a lounge chair, tucked behind a sign, or perched on a windowsill, you’ve just encountered one of the most joyful cruise traditions afloat. Cruising Ducks has become a beloved game for passengers of all ages—a mix of scavenger hunt, surprise gifting, and pure feel‑good fun. Whether you’re hiding ducks, hunting for them, or simply enjoying the smiles they create, this quirky trend adds a playful spark to any sailing.
What Are Cruising Ducks?
Cruising Ducks is a simple but delightful concept: passengers hide small rubber ducks around the ship for others to find. Each duck usually includes a tag with a message, the date, the ship name, or a “Keep or Rehide” note. Some cruisers even add social media handles so they can follow their duck’s journey long after it leaves their hands.
What makes it special is the surprise factor—finding a duck feels like discovering a tiny treasure, and hiding one feels like sending a little burst of happiness into the world.
How to Join the Fun
Get Some Ducks Bring a few rubber ducks from home—plain, decorated, themed, or personalized. Many cruisers love adding tags or stickers to make their ducks unique. Some even create mini outfits or cruise‑themed accessories.
Hide Them Around the Ship Place ducks in fun, visible, but safe locations. Think cozy corners, reading nooks, ledges, or tucked near décor. The goal is to make them discoverable without causing disruption.
Look for Ducks Keep your eyes open as you explore the ship. If you find one, you can keep it as a souvenir or rehide it to keep the magic going. There’s no wrong choice—just joy either way.
Rules: Where Not to Hide Ducks
To keep the tradition safe and respectful, a few guidelines matter:
- Avoid food areas like buffets and restaurants
- Keep ducks out of pools and hot tubs
- Never hide ducks in crew‑only spaces
- Skip stairwells, elevators, and emergency exits
- Avoid high or unstable surfaces where ducks could fall
These simple rules ensure the game stays fun without creating hazards or extra work for the crew.
Best Places to Hide Ducks
Some of the most creative hiding spots are also the most charming:
- Lounge chairs and deck seating
- Window‑side seating areas
- Near decorative plants or artwork (without blocking anything)
- Public shelves or ledges
- Behind railings or signs where they’re easy to spot
These spots strike the perfect balance between hidden and discoverable—ideal for sparking a smile.
Why Cruising Ducks Are So Popular
Cruising Ducks adds a layer of whimsy to the cruise experience. It encourages passengers to explore, interact, and share in a collective moment of joy. Kids love the treasure‑hunt feel, adults love the nostalgia and creativity, and everyone loves the surprise of finding a duck when they least expect it. It’s a simple tradition that builds community, spreads happiness, and turns an ordinary day at sea into something a little more magical.
Final Thoughts
Cruising Ducks is one of those small traditions that makes cruising feel extra special. Whether you’re hiding ducks, hunting for them, or just enjoying the excitement they create, this whimsical game adds charm and connection to your voyage. Follow the guidelines, get creative, and have fun spreading sunshine at sea.
Interested in cruise cabin organization hacks? Check out my blog post: Cruise Cabin Organization Hacks: How to Maximize Space & Stay Organized
