disney cruise rubber ducks

What the duck? Why people hide these kiddie toys on cruises — and how you can, too

On many a cruise, rubber ducks can be found peeking out from random hiding places, beckoning passengers to pick them up and read their accompanying information tags. Perhaps you'll find one hidden behind a plant by the Doe Family from Springfield or another carefully placed somewhere in the buffet by the Smiths from Greenville.

What the duck, you might be wondering, is the deal with hiding ducks on cruise ships?

As an avid duck hider, let me clue you in to this popular onboard pastime. Whether you're ready to hide ducks on cruises or want to send your kids on a hunt for cruise ducks, you'll need to get your own ducks in a row before you set sail.

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Cruise ship rubber ducks, explained

Cruisers often bring rubber ducks on cruises in an effort to have a bit of fun by hiding them throughout the ship. The ducks usually have information cards attached to them bearing the names of the people who hid them and where those passengers are from.

What began in 2018 as a cute gesture by a 10-year-old girl named Abby — who simply wanted to make other passengers smile — now spans several Facebook groups with hundreds of thousands of members. In these groups, cruisers chat about the ducks they've ordered, the best places to purchase them, clever places to hide them after they've set sail and the best ways to attach the information tags.

The largest group I've been able to find — yes, I'm a member — is " Cruising Ducks - Original ," which encourages people to share photos of the ducks they plan to hide as well as ducks they've found on board. Think of it a bit like geocaching, but simpler — and with ducks.

What to do if you find cruise ship ducks

If you find a duck, the next step is simple. Take a photo of yourself with the duck you've found and post it to the "Cruising Ducks - Original" Facebook group. Mention the name of the person who hid it. You might also choose to reach out to thank them if they have provided contact information on the card attached to the duck.

Then, either keep your new friend to take home with you as a souvenir or re-hide it according to the below rules.

Rules for hiding ducks on a cruise

It might sound silly, but there are rules for hiding rubber ducks on cruises. The first is that you should never put it in a pool or hot tub. You wouldn't want an excited child or inebriated passenger to fall in and drown or hurt themselves while attempting to fetch it.

Second, don't hide ducks in any of the onboard shops. If someone finds one hidden there and tries to take it with them, it could appear as though they're stealing something.

Third, don't place ducks where they might fall overboard. It's a huge no-no to toss anything into the ocean, even by accident.

When choosing ducks, the sky is the limit. I've seen everything from mini-ducks to giant ones that are a foot tall. You can find simple, classic yellow ducks in bulk online or you can choose to go all-out and purchase custom ones in a color or design that suits your personality. You might also choose to order plain ones and decorate them yourself with feathers, glitter or paint. Really, anything goes in terms of theme.

Some participants even choose to vary it a bit by hiding other duck-themed toys or objects, such as duck keychains, hand-crocheted ducks, duck-shaped Hot Wheels cars or small LEGO duck kits.

On a couple of my recent sailings, I won some inexpensive mini-ducks by playing a claw game in the arcade, and I used spare hair ties to attach my business card to them. It was a last-minute improvisation, but boy was it fun. Hiding them also kept the young daughter of one of my travel companions busy for an afternoon.

(Inspired by that experience, the cruise team here at The Points Guy got creative and had some specialty captain ducks made for the team to hide on upcoming cruises.)

For the tags, make sure to include your name and where you're from, along with instructions for the people who find your little quackers. Standard wording is generally something like this:

"Oh, what luck. You found a duck! Keep or hide, you decide. You found a cruising duck hidden by [name] from [city, state, country]. Hide in public places only — no pools, hot tubs or stores. Take a photo, and post it in the Facebook group 'Cruising Ducks - Original.'"

At a minimum, the tag should tell the duck's finders that they can either keep or re-hide the duck and the places that are off-limits. It should also encourage them to share the ducks they find online. You can also choose to include additional information, such as a QR code or your e-mail address.

Bottom line

If you're hiding ducks, be sure to adhere to the rules. If you find a duck, whether you keep it or re-hide it, be sure to post a photo per the accompanying instructions.

Hiding rubber ducks on cruise ships is a fun way to connect with other passengers on your next sailing, as well as a fun pastime on sea days. Whether you find a duck and contact the folks who hid it or hide your own flock so others can reach out to you, it can help you to make new friends from all corners of the globe.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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The Official Disney Rule That Has EVERYONE Talking About Rubber Ducks Right Now

By Robin Burks 1 Comment

Being on a Disney Cruise is a whole OTHER kind of vacation. Seriously — it’s NOTHING like visiting Disney World and Disneyland .

This is one POPULAR Disney Cruise Line duck

That’s because a Disney Cruise is a completely different kind of vacation , and it’s one where guests tend to be more social because they’re seeing the same people for the length of their cruise. Some might say that guests are even friendlier on a cruise, and it certainly seems like they’re ready and willing to gift each other little gifts, including hidden rubber ducks. There’s just one problem: those hidden ducks go against Disney Cruise Line’s policy. Say what?

Okay, let’s back up for a second. So there’s a longstanding tradition on Disney Cruises where guests bring little rubber duckies to hide all over the cruise ship for other guests to find . This isn’t a Disney-sanctioned activity but just one of those little traditions that cruisers have created over the years.

Tiny Rubber Duck

However, it’s been recently confirmed that Disney does not condone the practice of hiding ducks in public spaces on its cruise ships. According to a recent planDisney post, “I was advised that guests cannot hide things, such as rubber ducks in staterooms or public areas on the ship.”  Cast Members will actively remove any ducks that they might find.

The only duck allowed to hide

However, there’s nothing that states that guests can’t give rubber ducks to other guests. For example, Fish Extenders are another thing on Disney Cruises. Basically, these are hanging gift bags that are hung on the “fish” or other little icons near each cabin door, usually with the names of cruisers on them. These bags are usually used as mailboxes for messages, but gifts can be left in them, including rubber ducks. Yep, Disney Cruisers have a whole set of their own traditions, and how fun is that?

Disney Dream room door

That’s not the only thing Disney Cruisers do. They also decorate their cabin doors, but note Disney’s official policy on that is that you can only use magnetic signs . You can’t use tape or any other kind of adhesive on those doors. Over-the-door hangers are also prohibited.

So, if you’re planning on participating in some of these unofficial activities on Disney Cruise Line, be sure you know the rules before you get on the ship.

Stay tuned to DFB for more.

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Have you ever participated in these Disney Cruise Line unofficial activities? Let us know in the comments!

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January 19, 2024 at 2:27 pm

DCL hasn’t changed their policy. It’s always been as it’s written, they never stopped anyone from hiding ducks before, so I doubt they will now.

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Cruise Ducks No Longer Welcome On Disney Cruise Line

• Disney Cruise Line requests guests not to hide rubber ducks, effectively ending the popular scavenger hunt.
• Cruise ship guests have made a tradition of hiding and finding rubber cruise ducks.
• Disney's new policy aims to reduce the workload for crew members, with no strict enforcement measures announced.

Disney Cruise Line has recently updated its policy regarding a popular guest-led activity involving rubber ducks. The cruise line now requests guests not to hide rubber ducks in public areas or staterooms on their ships. This effectively ends the rubber duck scavenger hunt, a fan-favorite activity among many cruise travelers.

Cruise ducks are a popular activity among cruise ship passengers. The scavenger hunt involves hiding and seeking small rubber ducks around the ship.

The game isn’t exclusive to Disney and is popular across cruise lines.

Guests typically add a tag to the duck, encouraging finders to keep or re-hide them for others to discover. The trend originated on social media, specifically within Facebook groups. The activity is similar to geocaching, or the practice of hiding painted rocks.

While guests can bring rubber ducks on Disney cruise ships, the cruise line discourages guests from hiding them around the vessel.

“According to our policy, guests are allowed to bring rubber ducks onboard,”   Disney Cruise Line said.   “However, it’s important to note that pool toys, including rubber ducks, are not permitted to be used in the pools. Additionally, we kindly request that guests are not allowed to hide items such as rubber ducks in public areas or staterooms.”

While Disney Cruise Line hasn’t strictly prohibited the presence of rubber ducks on board, their new stance discourages the act of hiding them. The planDisney panel, responding to a guest inquiry, confirmed that guests are not allowed to hide items like rubber ducks in staterooms or public areas.

When a guest asked planDisney if guests can hide ducks on the ship, Panelist Adrianna answered the question, saying, “I know that this is a popular thing to do for many cruisers onboard, but it sounds like it’s being discouraged and as you said, Crew Members are removing any ducks they spot around the ship.”

Disney’s stance on cruise ship ducks aims to reduce additional work for crew members, who are tasked with removing any ducks found around the ship.

Interestingly, this phenomenon started on Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Breeze in March 2018 when a 10-year-old girl named Abby wanted to put a smile on the faces of her fellow passengers. Carnival Cruise Line has reacted to the game with a fun and easy-going attitude, with their brand ambassador noting that many crew members enjoy finding the ducks.

“Many of the crew love finding the ducks and have them in their cabins as they bring them cheer,”   said John Heald, Carnival Cruise Line brand ambassador.   “We have absolutely no problem with guests leaving them as we do think it’s fun.”

Disney Cruise Line’s new policy reflects a growing need to balance guest activities with operational practicality. While they haven’t implemented strict enforcement measures, such as fines or bans for those who hide or find ducks, the line’s request significantly changes how such activities are perceived and managed on board.

Disney is the first cruise line to discourage the popular game. Most cruise lines don’t have a specific policy on cruise ducks, but no cruise line has banned the practice of hiding them on the ship.

Marcello De Lio

Marcello's been cruising since he was 12 years old. He loves the freedom that cruising provides, meeting new people, and exploring amazing new ships. Marcello created High Seas Cruising to share his passion for cruising and travel with readers and grow a community of passionate voyagers.

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Disney Fans Can’t Stop Talking About This Rubber Duck Rule. Here’s Why.

Recently, Disney Cruise Line fans took to social media to discuss a (seemingly random) cruise rule.

Before we dive in, we should probably start with a little background. The practice of hiding rubber ducks around cruise ships has been a classic cruise activity on many different ships — Disney Cruise Line ships included. But we’ve got an update for Disney Cruise Line passengers — so what’s really going on with these rubber ducks?

Recently, Disney officially discouraged cruisers from hiding rubber ducks on board their ships.

Now, let’s be clear — Disney Cruise Line has not prohibited guests from bringing rubber ducks on board . Rubber ducks are still allowed to be brought on board the ship, and you can still hand them out to other passengers or put them in other guests’ fish extenders hanging outside staterooms.

However, Disney is asking guests not to hide them around the ship due to health and safety concerns.

We know this may sound like bad news for guests who enjoy hunting for ducks, but it’s important to abide by Disney’s rules. Don’t forget — you can still trade with other cruisers! We’re always here to bring you the latest Disney news, so stay tuned to AllEars!

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How do you feel about this change? Tell us in the comments!

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One Reply to “Disney Fans Can’t Stop Talking About This Rubber Duck Rule. Here’s Why.”

Disney cannot control the ducks, and someone could put inappropriate contents in them. And if there’s food (candy) in them and they are not found for some time, the food can turn bad.

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• Cruise Advice

Cruise Ducks: A How-To Guide for Hiders and Seekers

Richard Simms

• December 2, 2023
• 6.9K shares

Cruise Ducks have become a cruising trend on cruise ships over the past few years, sparking a playful hunt that fosters community and connection among cruisers. 

The concept is simple. Passengers purchase rubber ducks, customize them with mini tags, and discreetly hide them in spots around the cruise ship. Fellow cruisers then try to locate the ducks, take pictures, and often re-hide them for the next person to experience the fun. 

Whether you’re new to the idea of Cruise Ducks or have questions about where to buy or hide them, we’ve got you covered in this ultimate cruise ship duck hunting guide.

Stick around!

What Is the Cruise Duck Phenomenon?

In case you’ve missed out on the cruise duck phenomenon, it’s pretty simple: Folks buy (or, if they’re creative, make) ducks, then hide them around the ship for others to find, enhancing the cruising experience.

Note: Jeep owners do the same thing and call it Jeep Ducking !

Sometimes, the ducks come with notes asking that their original owner be contacted or that, once found, a picture be posted in a specific Facebook group. In other cases, the ducks are decorated with the ship’s name and the sailing date, making them great souvenirs.

Whenever a duck is located, its finder must make a sometimes tough decision: Do they keep it for their collection or, after taking a picture and posting it wherever the tag asks, do they re-hide it for someone else to find?

I find it fascinating how such a small gesture can bring so much excitement to fellow cruisers. These adorable critters often come in various colors, designs, and sizes, making the hunt even more thrilling.

The main purpose of hiding and finding these ducks is to spread joy and foster a sense of community among passengers.

Most come with a tag attached to help differentiate cruise ducks from rubber ducks. The tag typically contains the name of the person who placed the duck, along with some basic instructions on what to do when one is found.

Here’s a typical format for cruise duck tags:

• Name: John Doe (you can use your real name or a nickname)
• Date Hidden: November 27, 2023
• Message: “Congratulations on finding me! Please take a photo with me and post it on social media using the hashtag #CruiseDuck. Feel free to re-hide me so someone else can share the fun!”

I’ve seen creative ways to hide these distractions on a cruise ship – tucked in plants, perched on balcony railings, or even nestled in elevator corners. 

That said, you must always prioritize the safety and cleanliness of the ship and its passengers. It’s crucial not to interfere with the ship’s property or operations while placing a cruise duck.

How Did Cruise Ducks Become a Sensation?

Although credit for the trend is given mainly to a 10-year-old girl named Abby, who hid about 50 ducks on the Carnival Breeze in the spring of 2018, references can be found to people playing hide-and-seek with the adorable plastic creatures as far back as 2015 on cruise vacations.

Abby’s adventure, however, seems to have kicked things into high gear and started a movement, the main purpose of which is simply to make other people smile.

It’s also been suggested that cruising ducks are a distant relative of the painted-rocks phenomenon, essentially a landlocked version of the same game.

Cruise ducks aren’t the only rubberized animals that find their way on board. While many different animals can be found, pigs are the second most popular variety, with flame-red devil ducks also showing strongly.

Types of Cruise Ducks: A Guide for Cruisers

I have come across numerous themed ducks that make the entire experience more fun and engaging for cruise ship passengers. Let me share with you some of the most popular and creative variations that can be found on board a cruise ship.

Cruise ducks can be categorized into the following themes: 

• Origami ducks

Pirate-themed cruise ducks are a favorite among seafaring adventurers. Often adorned with eye patches, tiny pirate hats, and even miniature treasure maps, these delightful duckies bring an element of whimsy to any voyage.

A few pirate duck examples include:

• Captain Quackbeard , complete with a felt beard
• Buccaneer Duck , which sports a scarf and a gold earring
• Pirate Parrot Duck , a clever twist with its parrot-inspired design

If you cruise during the holiday season, you might come across Christmas cruise ducks. These festive rubber ducks are often dressed up as Santa Claus, reindeer, or snowmen, and they can add a touch of holiday cheer to your journey. 

My personal favorites include:

• Santa Duck , with a little red hat and a white beard
• Reinduck , featuring antlers and a bright red nose
• Snow Duck , a small snowman in duck form, complete with a top hat

For those looking to celebrate Halloween on a cruise, themed ducks can be found sporting various spooky disguises. 

These ducks may be available during October, and some examples are:

• Dracula Duck , a vampire duck with a cape and fangs
• Mummy Duck , wrapped in white gauze, like an ancient Egyptian
• Witch Duck , often found in a green state, wearing a pointy hat

If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy an Easter cruise, watch for ducks dressed as bunnies or in other Easter-themed attire. Some of these adorable rubber ducks include:

• Bunny Duc , donning bunny ears and a fluffy tail
• Egg Painter Duck , featuring an artist’s palette and paintbrush
• Spring Flower Duck , surrounded by colorful blossoms

Lastly, some enthusiasts enjoy creating origami ducks while on a cruise for a creative and artistic twist. Constructed from paper, these ducks are a beautiful, eco-friendly alternative to traditional rubber ducks.

Origami ducks come in various shapes and colors, each a small masterpiece. I have seen passengers leave behind their creations as tiny surprises for fellow cruisers to discover.

Where to Buy Cruise Ducks for Your Next Cruise

When it comes to purchasing cruise ducks, people have different preferences and needs. Some like to decorate or hand paint each duck independently, while others (like me) would just buy a bulk order of them online for their next cruise.

As someone who spends too much time looking for the best cruise ducks, I can recommend and trust a few sources I have used.

Some popular online platforms which offer a variety of cruise ducks for sale are:

• Amazon: A trusted and reliable marketplace with a vast collection of cruise ducks from various brands and price ranges.
• Etsy: Here, one can find unique and handmade cruise ducks crafted by talented artists and small businesses.
• eBay: For those who like to hunt for great deals or collectible items, eBay is the go-to place for buying cruise ducks.

I will say that I’ve used Amazon and Etsy the most.

Getting Quacky With Cruise Duck Tag Ideas

A duck tag is essential for bringing your cruise duck to life and sending it on its journey. The tag gives your ducky its backstory and instructions so that each finder can participate in the fun.

You have to be creative with the details when coming up with duck tags. On that account, here are some ideas to help you come up with fun tags:

• Pick a fun and quirky name like Captain Beaks, First Mate Feathers, or Quack Sparrow. Pirate-themed names are quite popular!
• Share as many details as possible. Examples:  “Hatched in Honolulu,” “Aspires to win a belly flop context,” etc. 
• Next, you need to add a mini-bio. Examples: “This is my first cruise!” or “I’ve sailed 15 ships; collect me for your flock!” 
• This is the most fun step; giving wacky instructions! A couple of my favorites are “Take me on a spa day” and “Buy me a tiny paper umbrella drink”. For a romantic twist, you’ll want to go with something like “Take me on your next date” or “I’m looking for love; can you introduce me to other ducks?”. 
• For photos, ask to do fun poses like “Do the duck face with me!”
• You can add to the fun by offering a “Duck Finder’s Reward” for returning the duck. The reward can be anything from a drink to a gift mailed home. 

By getting clever with your cruise duck’s tag, you can really set their one-of-a-kind personality and give each finder excitement as they hunt for these hidden treasures. Let your imagination run wild!

The Community and Social Media Influence on Cruise Duck Tradition

Do you think this is just some silly little game played by children? Think again!

Numerous social media groups are devoted to cruising ducks, including the Cruising Ducks Facebook Page, which has over 230,000 members. 

The page is also a great resource, especially for those looking for templates for the “Passports” many use to tag their ducks.

With platforms like Facebook and Instagram, enthusiasts have found a resourceful way to connect and share their passion for these adorable ducks.

One of the most popular ways my fellow cruisers engage with each other is through Facebook groups. These groups provide a platform for members to post pictures of their latest duck finds, share stories of their adventures, and offer helpful information about the best spots to search for ducks aboard cruise ships.

New and seasoned cruise duck enthusiasts can join these groups, participate in discussions, or ask questions.

Moreover, the use of hashtags plays a significant role in connecting people on a global level. By using the hashtag #cruisingducks, members can quickly discover content related to cruise ducks, exchange experiences, and follow the journeys of these cute collectibles.

In addition to the community-driven aspect of cruise ducks, the influence of social media has given rise to an elevated sense of purpose.

The act of hiding and finding cruise ducks has become more than a simple game. It has become a social cause, fostering an environment of kindness and happiness amongst passengers.

These factors contribute to the overall vitality of the cruise duck community on a personal and social level. The passion for cruise ducks spills over into social media, bringing enthusiasts together to celebrate their shared interests. 

Not Everyone Loves Cruise Ducks

Of course, as we all know, every party has that notorious pooper. Perhaps not surprisingly, given how big the whole cruising duck phenomenon has become, this particular party has attracted several varieties of complainers on Facebook .

Some have never seen a duck on board a ship yet are still inexplicably perturbed by the notion. “If I ever see one of these stupid ducks everyone is talking about,” posted one such curmudgeon to Facebook, “I’ll take it home, set it afire, and post a picture of that. Man, people are stupid.”

Others have gone so far as to suggest that rubber ducks should be banned aboard cruise ships, prompting one concerned traveler to ask Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, if this would happen on its ships.

He not only assured his Facebook followers that the ducks were welcome on board (“Hide them. Find them. Have fun with them,” he wrote) but assured would-be hiders that “most” of the crew members knew not to throw them away if they came across them.

Where to Hide Cruise Ducks on a Ship?

As a seasoned cruise duck enthusiast, I’ve picked up a few tricks for hiding ducks cleverly and creatively onboard a cruise ship.

Hiding your little rubber friends can be an enjoyable challenge and an engaging game of hide-and-seek for passengers.

• Lounging areas: There are often chairs, tables, and cozy corners where passengers can relax. Tuck a duck beneath a cushion or chair, or place one atop a stack of magazines for a pleasant surprise.
• Pool decks: Hide your duck near the pool’s edge, the steps leading into the water, or under a sun lounger. Be sure to avoid putting your duck directly in the water since it could end up lost or floating away.
• Stairwells and elevators: Try hiding a duck on a stair’s ledge, resting on a handrail, or peeking out from behind an elevator door.
• Buffets and dining rooms: Placing a duck atop a pile of napkins or nestled against the centerpiece on a dining table can be a delightful treat for those enjoying a meal. However, be mindful of food safety and avoid direct contact with food items.
• Cabin hallways: A hallway corner table or a small decorative shelf can serve as a perfect hiding spot, especially if your duck can peek out just enough to catch the eye of a passing passenger.
• In your stateroom: Those wanting to leave a surprise for the next passengers occupying their stateroom have even put a duck or two in the cabin’s safe.

That’s not to say everyone gets creative when placing their plastic friends. Some wind up in places like elevator corners or stairwells, looking for all the world as if they were dropped instead of hidden.

(Note: Always check with your cruise line to make sure cruise ducks are allowed. Disney Cruise Line recently started cracking down on passengers bringing cruise ducks onboard .)

Tips for Finding Cruise Ducks on Your Cruise

I’ve learned that finding cruise ducks can be a fun activity during a sailing. The key to finding them is knowing where to look and how to approach the search.

Here are some valuable tips for finding cruise ducks I’ve discovered.

• Check popular gathering spots on the ship: Ducks usually gather in specific areas on the cruise ship, such as the pools, garden areas, and open decks. These places tend to have water, plants, and a serene atmosphere that attracts ducks. Watch for them while walking around the ship and during your leisure time.
• Look during early morning or late afternoon hours: Ducks are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. Explore the ship during these times for a higher chance of spotting them.
• Talk to fellow cruisers and crew members: Don’t hesitate to ask fellow cruisers and crew members for tips on where to find cruise ducks. They can provide valuable insights and may know secret spots where the ducks hide.
• Be patient and observant: Finding cruise ducks requires patience and a keen eye. Don’t expect to find them immediately, but rather enjoy the process of exploring the ship and its surroundings. With a bit of perseverance, you are bound to spot at least one.

Whether sailing with family/friends or embarking on a solo journey, the simple yet captivating game of hiding and finding cruise ducks adds an extra layer of excitement to your sea voyage.

Why Participate in the Cruise Duck Tradition?

• Builds community: The cruise duck game is a fantastic way to engage with other passengers. It creates an instant topic of conversation and a playful community spirit onboard. As you hunt for or hide these adorable ducks, you’ll find yourself making new friends and sharing joyful moments.
• Fun for all ages: Cruise ducks offer a universal appeal, making them perfect for families with children, couples, or solo travelers. It’s a wholesome activity that brings smiles to cruisers of all ages.
• Memorable souvenirs: Each cruise duck you find becomes a cherished keepsake, a unique souvenir from your cruise. These little ducks often carry the essence of the voyage, whether through a special design, a message, or the story of how you found them.
• Creative expression: For those who love arts and crafts, customizing your cruise ducks is a way to express creativity. From painting to accessorizing, these ducks become a canvas for your artistic ideas.
• Stress relief: Engaging in a light-hearted activity like the cruise duck game can be a great stress reliever. It adds a playful twist to your cruise, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of a treasure hunt.
• Photo opportunities: Finding and hiding cruise ducks creates unique photo opportunities, adding fun and quirky moments to your vacation photos.

Join the Cruise Duck Movement

If you’re planning your next cruise, consider joining the cruise duck movement. It’s an easy, cost-effective way to add an extra dimension of fun to your journey. 

Share your duck finds on social media , connect with fellow cruisers in online communities, and become part of a growing global phenomenon that celebrates joy, community, and the spirit of adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, cruise ducks offer a fun addition to your sailing, and even introverts can do it! Happy duck hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the story behind the cruise duck.

The story of the cruise duck started a few years ago when family duo Ashley and Abby Davis bought 50 rubber ducks for a spring break cruise. They hid several each day and watched as people of all ages started to find the ducks with excitement and happiness on their faces.

What are the origins of cruise ducks?

Cruise ducks trace their origins back to the popular hobby of geocaching, where people hide small items or trinkets for others to find. This practice has evolved within the cruise community, where travelers began hiding rubber ducks around the ship for fellow passengers to discover.

How does one participate in the cruise duck tradition?

Hide the cruise duck around the ship or try to find them. To hide ducks, purchase a few rubber ducks and discreetly place them around the ship. To find ducks, watch for these little creatures in unexpected locations.

Where can I purchase cruise ducks and accessories?

Cruise ducks and related accessories can be purchased online through popular retailers like Amazon and Etsy and physical stores specializing in party and novelty items.

What are some popular cruise duck themes or designs?

Popular cruise duck themes and designs include nautical themes, pirates, mermaids, tropical designs, and holiday-themed ducks. Some enthusiasts even create ducks representing specific ports of call or the cruise ship’s name.

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Explained: Rubber Ducks on a Cruise Ship (And How to Find Them)

Maybe you’ve seen pictures of passenger finds posted on Facebook. Or perhaps you’ve gone on a cruise and seen a little rubber duckie sitting in a corner, seemingly hidden but also out of place.

They are cute, fun, and if you look hard enough, these ducks can be almost anywhere on a cruise ship. So what exactly are they? How did they get there? And can you take them? Here’s what you want to know about those little rubber ducks that have invaded cruise ships.

A Passenger-Created Treasure Hunt for Ducks

Cruises are known for being fun. There’s music, events, shows, waterslides, arcades, and a lot more. But there can always be more fun, right? That’s where the ducks come in.

In a trend that isn’t quite clear where it started but has spread like wildfire thanks to social media, everyday passengers bring small rubber duckies with them onto the ship. They then plant these ducks around the ship in little hiding places that can be anywhere from the dining room to a lounge to the pool deck. If it’s a public place on the ship, there’s a chance that a duck is hidden somewhere.

Sometimes the ducks are adorned with a tag or label of the person/family that placed them or the date of the cruise and the ship. Other times they are simply there waiting to be found.

Look online and you’ll find all sorts of Facebook groups for finding ducks on cruise ships, or you might see them posted on the group of a specific cruise sailing.

As of yet, no cruise lines place ducks on their ships. This is all done completely by cruise passengers hoping to share a little joy via a duck “treasure hunt.” It’s simple, but an easy way to bring a smile to another passenger — especially if it’s found by kids who especially seem to love hunting ducks on the ship.

Cruise Duck Etiquette (Can You Take Them?)

So what do you do if you find a duck? Can you take it? Well, you have a few options.

If simply spotting a duck is enough for you, then you can leave it alone and let someone else find it. Some people just take a photo to show they found it and then let it be.

If you like, you can also snag it, see if there is an associated Facebook page for it or another way to share your find with others. If you want, you can also take the duck and keep it as a souvenir and a little memento of your cruise. Kids especially love to see how many they can collect during the cruise.

Perhaps the nicest thing to do is to “pay it forward” with the duck. When you find it, grab it and then find a new hiding place for someone else to discover. This keeps the duck in play and the hunt ongoing versus taking it out of circulation.

When hiding you want to make it a challenge (so don’t just set it in the middle of a table somewhere), but not so hard that it won’t be found before the end of the cruise.

Tips for Finding Ducks

Want to find ducks on your own? It’s a fun way to spend some time if you are looking for something to do around the ship, and kids especially enjoy the treasure hunt aspect. If you want to be successful, keep the following tips in mind:

Keep Your Eyes Peeled: It goes without saying that if you want to find a duck, then you need to be paying attention. On a cruise ship, however, there are so many distractions with things to do, people, artwork, bars, restaurants, events, and more. It’s easy to lose your focus and start checking out other things than staying focused on the ducks.

Tune Into Pops of Color: One good thing about rubber duckies is that they do anything but blend in. The classic yellow color is eye-catching, but ducks can come in any color from purple to blue to pink. The one thing that’s nice is that they are always a bright color that will mean they stand out. While ducks may be hidden on the cruise, you can’t say they are camouflaged. Keep your eyes tuned into pops of color and you might find a duck faster.

Get the Whole Family Involved: It makes sense that multiple sets of eyes are better than one. If you want to up your chances of finding a rubber duck on your cruise, then make it a family activity. Have everyone in on the hunt and you’ll cover more ground and be less likely to overlook a hidden duck.

Remember, these ducks are all hidden by passengers. That means the number of ducks on the ship will vary. We’d guess that cruises during the summer and holidays when there are more kids sailing are more apt to have a greater number of ducks as it seems to be popular with families. In other words, it could be that your cruise has a lot of ducks to find or fewer than normal. You’ll never know until you start searching.

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Cruise Ducks: Tips, Rules & Everything You Need to Know

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If you’re going on a cruise and have heard about cruise ducks, you might be wondering what its all about. Cruise ducks have been around for a few years and the fun trend is only becoming more popular!

While hiding cruise ducks is most well known on Carnival cruises , you’re likely to find cruising ducks on Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Disney and other popular cruise lines.

I’ve been cruising for about 20 years, and first heard about cruise ducks about 5 years ago. Since that time we’ve found cruising ducks on several cruise ships. On a recent Princess cruise, we finally decided to join in on the fun and participate in the cruise ducks trend.

In this post I go over everything you need to know about cruising ducks, from it’s origins to how you play the game.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What Are Cruise Ducks?

Cruise ducks are small plastic or rubber ducks that cruise passengers hide in different areas of the cruise ship. You can buy traditional yellow rubber ducks or show off your personality with fun themed ducks.

Some cute ducks I’ve seen include sports themed ducks like hockey or baseball, holiday ducks for both Christmas and Halloween, Princess ducks, and more.

Some people create their own ducks by knitting or crocheting them, while others have been creating home made keychains. It’s pretty incredible to see how creative people are getting with this cruise trend.

However, this isn’t the whole story. Cruising ducks is actually a fun game, with a few rules to follow if you decide to bring cruising ducks on your cruise vacation.

The Cruising Duck Game

The cruising duck game is similar to a game of hide and seek. People hide ducks on a cruise, and other cruisers look for the ducks. Sometimes this is referred to as Duck Hunting (in the sweetest way).

Once people find a cruise duck, they’ll often post a picture of it in a Cruising Duck Facebook page or use the hashtag #cruisingducks and post to Instagram.

Cruising Duck Game Rules

Are you wondering how to play? The cruise ducks game is simple, but there are actually rules to follow and a few things to know.

1. Buy or create ducks to hide

You can buy small rubber on Amazon and in party stores. These days you can even find cruise duck sets which include novelty ducks, tags and ties.

2. Label your ducks

Label your ducks with the following information:

• name (can be family name)
• cruise ship

As an example “Smith family – Carnival Mardi Gras – April 1, 2023)

3. Print out cruise duck tags

It’s fun to put your information on cruise duck tags or “passports”. Some people use stickers and place these right on the bottom of the duck, or may even label with a permanent marker.

4. Keep or Hide, You Decide

The cruising ducks game is really just meant for fun, so an important element is to use the message “Keep or Hide, You Decide” on the cruise duck tag.

It’s ok to search for cruise ducks and keep them, or to rehide some to continue the fun.

5. No hiding cruise ducks in shops, pools or hot tubs

Cruise lines don’t mind cruisers bringing the novelty ducks onboard. However, there is a rule that cruise ducks can’t be hidden in shops, pools and hot tubs.

6. Cruise ducks should never go into the ocean

Remember that you don’t want any ducks to go into the ocean, so never hide them on outer railings or anywhere where a gust of wind can blow them off the ship.

7. Post to social media (optional)

It’s fun for people who hide cruising ducks to see that they’re found, and they may include an instruction to post a photo to a cruising duck facebook page or to use a hashtag #cruisingducks. However, posting a photo of your cruise duck isn’t mandatory.

Related: What to Pack for Your First Cruise (clothing & essentials)

What is the Story Behind Cruising Ducks?

According to everything I have read, the popular cruising duck trend was started by a young girl named Abby Davis in March 2018. Abby and her father Ashley Davis, went on a 7 day Carnival cruise and brought 50 ducks to hide during their Caribbean cruise.

Their purpose was just to play a fun game and make people smile – and did they ever!

Since that time, they started the Facebook group, Cruising Ducks – Original Group, which now has over 180,000 members. According to Abby’s dad Ashley, they never thought the group would get this big and that this “kindness project” would catch on as it has.

Cruising Ducks Communities

There are several Facebook groups, including the Original Cruising Ducks group, where you can get ideas and be inspired, as well as ask all the cruising duck questions you could think of.

In cruise duck facebook groups, people will post photos of their cruise ducks, tags and passports as they get ready for their upcoming cruise.

Cruisers who’ve found ducks onboard cruises post their photos as well.

Related: Cruise Cabin Door Decorations: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers

What To Do if You Find a Cruising Duck

If you find a cruising duck on a cruise ship, it will usually have an instruction to “keep or hide, you decide” and a call to action asking you to post a photo within the Facebook group, if possible.

Some people decide to keep the cruising duck, while others may choose to hide it to pass on some fun to another cruise passenger or crew member.

You could even take the new found duck friend on your next cruise, and post about his voyage and how far he’s traveled.

Something to remember if you do embark on hiding ducks on your next cruise, is that you may never know who found your duck (although you might). Even so, your special duck probably brought a smile to someone and could mean more than you know.

“This group is a community kindness project” , says the admin message on Cruising Ducks Original Group.

Remember that not everyone has internet while cruising or social media (Facebook or Instagram).

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Where Can You Buy Cruising Ducks?

You can look for small rubber ducks at party stores and online. As cruising ducks have gained popularity, there are a few ready to go cruise ducks sets available as well.

Here are a few popular novelty cruise duck options on Amazon:

12 Pack Novelty Rubber Ducks

20 Cruise Ducks & Passport Tags (& rubber bands)

Carnival Cruising Duck Tags

Personalize Your Cruise Duck with Cruise Duck Tags

You may want to personalize your cruising duck with your own cruise duck tags, passports or stickers.

If you join Cruising Ducks Original Group, you’ll actually be able to download tags and passports for your cruising ducks. Before you can do this, you do have to join the Facebook Group, but it’s free and a nice group of people who really just want to contribute to the fun.

You can find the free templates in the “files” section of the group. You can print the out on cardstock and even laminate them if you like

If you prefer, you can also make your own or find cruise duck stickers, tags and passports that you can order on Etsy, Zazzle, Vistaprint or on Amazon.

How to Create Your Own Cruising Ducks

There are ways to create your own ducks. For instance, some people crochet or knit their cruising ducks. I’m amazed at the talent of Natali Sholes Young and her daughter, who crocheted some their cruising ducks to give away!

Some Cruising Ducks have a Story

One thing that I noticed, and that frankly surprised me as I researched this trendy activity, is that many people shared ducks that had an extra special meaning.

Some ducks were tagged in memory of someone special who had a love of life, but has sadly passed on. Other people shared ducks that had a beautiful message for Autism awareness or another worthy cause.

Natali, a first time participant, kindly shared the story of her special ducks (seen above). Half of her ducks will be tagged for breast cancer awareness and the other half for Type 1 diabetes, since she is sailing during the months of awareness for these diseases and they are important to her.

She says “I’m here to spread awareness with a whole lot of fun and smiles!!”. Love it!!

How to Attach the Tags on the Cruising Ducks

You can use colored rubber bands to attach the tags to the necks of the rubber ducks, twine or some curling ribbon.

I recently saw this idea posted in a Cruising Duck Facebook Group. This fun duck themed ribbon is great for tying duck tags or passports on to your cruise duck.

Recommended: Duck theme ribbon to tie tags (amazon link)

• Cruising Ducks

There are so many cute rubber ducks that you can use if you’re bringing cruising ducks. You can even find some for holidays like Christmas, Easter and Halloween!. Here are a few favorites available now.

Pirate Ducks

Colorful Splat Pattern Ducks

Assorted Rubber Ducks

Easter Ducks

Halloween Ducks

Cruise Ducks Frequently Asked Questions

What size ducks should i order.

Most people seem to like the 2 inch size, although some buy bigger and some buy smaller. Do be careful with buying ducks that are very small as these could be a choking hazard for young children

Can cruising ducks not be ducks?

I can’t believe I wrote that, but you probably know what I mean. Rubber “duckies” come in different animal forms and creations.

It seems that there are various answers to this question, depending on which Cruise Duck Facebook Group you join.

Some say anything goes, after all it’s all in good fun. Others say ducks only. Personally, I don’t see an issue with having other similar novelty toys.

Will the cruise ship’s crew throw the ducks away?

Most cruise lines have made their crew aware of cruise ducks, and most crew members say they enjoy it. Early on, some reported that crew would throw away the ducks, but this doesn’t seem to be an issue now.

Crew may even enjoy the fun of receiving one from a guest . Some crew say they bring a couple home to their children when they finish their contract.

Carnival Cruise Line, where this trend is extremely popular has truly embraced it. John Heald, brand ambassador for Carnival has said that crew have been made aware of the cruising duck phenomenon and won’t be throwing away ducks.

Is there sample wording for my cruising duck tags?

Here are some ideas….

“ConQUACKtulations!”

“Oh what luck, you’ve found a duck. Keep or hide, you decide”

Don’t forget to let people know where your cruising duck came from, the ship and sail date and where they can share it/post it on social media should they want to (your cruise duck Facebook group of choice).

Many more ideas are posted with Cruising Duck Facebook communities, so definitely check the out.

If you prefer to order your tags ready made, here’s a cute one (on Amazon) .

Where can I find more Cruising Duck pictures to get inspiration?

Here’s a list of some Facebook groups I found which will have posts from people sharing the ducks they’ve made and are ready to hide, and others who have found them and posted.

I’ve scrolled through a few and have seen so any great ideas for ducks and tags. If you like the passport printable shown in the above photo, Dee has kindly created a printable which is available in the Cruising Ducks – Original Group Facebook community.

Cruising Duck Facebook Groups

There are a few Facebook Groups dedicated to the fun activity of hiding and finding ducks. They’re a place to connect with other cruisers, get ideas and see the ducks that are being prepared for upcoming cruises, as well as the photos posted of ducks that are found on board.

The nice thing about these groups is to be able to chat about cruising ducks and ask questions to other people who are really into this.

Check out the files section for resources like templates you can print out, and events where others in the group may be cruising with you. It’s similar to a cruise roll call .

Here are some groups to get you started:

• Cruising Ducks – Original Group
• Carnival Cruising Ducks
• Norwegian Cruise Line Ducks
• Princess Cruising Ducks
• Cruising Duck Hunters
• Royal Caribbean Cruising Ducks
• Celebrity Cruising Ducks

Video: Cruise Ducks Explained

Cruising Ducks Craze – Amazon Novelty Products

I couldn’t help but notice that beyond these adorable rubber ducks, there are tons of other stuff all dedicated in some way to Cruising Ducks. I’ve seen people posting duck socks, duck ties, and duck t-shirts.

Some have pretty cute sayings that I got a kick out of, including shirts that said “Duck, Duck, Cruise “ . If you played this game as a kid, you might find it amusing too. You can find a wide array of t-shirts and other duck related stuff on Amazon .

Recommended: This cruising duck shirt comes in a quite a few different colors and sizes:  Cruising Ducks Novelty t-shirt (Amazon link)

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Recap: A Guide to Cruising Ducks: the Trend That Will Quack You Up

Cruising Ducks is a fun trend for cruise passengers that’s becoming more popular with every year! Whether you’re cruising on Carnival, Disney, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian or another cruise line, you’ll likely find some cruise ducks onboard.

The cruise ducks game is fun for families with kids and adults alike!

Have you found or hid any cruise ducks or will you be participating by hiding ducks on your next cruise?

Happy Cruising!

Ilana 

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

24 Comments

I had no idea this was happening but I love the idea. I think everyone will want to pack some ducks for their next cruise.

I’m so glad you like the idea. I love the positivity of it too!

Let me know how it goes if you try it :-).

I have a collection of over 100 rubber ducks from HS and beyond, and we’re going on a Carnival Christmas Cruise (first timers!) This is PERFECT!!

Wanted to note you need to update Abby’s address to LiBerty Tx (we don’t have a Liverty) 🙂

I love getting your emails, they’re helping me prep 🙂

So exciting!! I have heard amazing things about Carnival Christmas cruises. You’ll have a blast!

Thanks also for catching my typo – fixing it now 🙂

I appreciate your very kind words and a super glad you’re enjoying my posts and emails!

Actually placing ducks on cruise-ships in nothing new. It was bsically started back in 2010 on a Royal Caribbean cruise when a group of women from Massapequa High School, N.Y, class of 74, placed over 250 ducks around the Freedom of the Seas as part of a scavenger hunt with clues supplied of the various locations where the ducks were hidden. One duck had a special note on it giving away a free cruise for two to the finder of the duck. That scavenger hunt continued on various cruises by this same group up to 2016 when the group stopped doing their yearly reunion on cruises. My mom was part of that group and kept the three ducks she located as keepsakes and mementos of those trips. Other high school reunion groups had heard about what MHS was doing and they started hiding their own ducks throughout the years.

The power of social media is probably the cause of this recent explosion of the cruising duck phenomenon where now thousands upon thousands of people are now hiding ducks on cruise ships all over the world. With the promotion on Facebook by “Cruising Ducks”, they have taken this to a whole new level.

People are becoming more creative with their ducks. Some even hand making crocheted ducks. It’s now become a fun thing to do with the kids prior to the family cruise and even more fun when the kids find the ducks while on the cruise.

Will be interesting to see how long this game will continue. Carnival has embraced the game while some other cruise-lines go along with it. Personally I hope it continues to grow.

I will be taking my next cruise in February 2021 and I will be bringing my ducks to hide. That’s for sure!!

Wow Rhonda! I had no idea this Cruising Ducks phenomenon had such history! It’s definitely a fun and lighthearted, and as you mentioned, creative activity and I agree with your sentiments.

Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.

We searched for ducks on a 2016 Royal cruise & hid ducks on a 2017 Carnival cruise . Definitely did not begin in 2018.

We are cruising in May and i will be taking ducks to hide. Fun!

That does sound like fun! Is your cruise still sailing? I’ve seen a few updates now

Found my first duck Dec. 2019. I love the Facebook group, the positivity helped through 2020. We all look forward to cruising again. National Rubber Ducky day was yesterday, it’s held annually in order of Sesame Street Rubber Ducky, whose birthday is Jan. 13.

Thanks for sharing that Shantelle. I wish we were cruising this year so we could celebrate the special day on a cruise. Hopefully next year!

I found one coming out of the theater one evening. New England and Canada cruise September of 2019. I thought some kid lost his toy. I picked it up looked at it and put it back in place. I was clueless about the game.

How funny! I wouldn’t have known either 🙂

Interesting article. I’ll be on the lookout for a duck on my next cruise.

Let me know if you see any – I hear they’re making a comeback 🙂

Just found my first duck! I had no idea about this fabulous Duck Game! Such a great idea! I can’t wait till my next cruise so I can pass on the happiness that I found! 😁❤️🐤

How fun! I think this will be coming back, and as you said, definitely be bringing along and passing on some happiness.

My mom is 75 this will be her first cruise. We are going on the Dream in April. Lost my husband in Oct 2021. This trip is my gift to my mom and myself, I would be celebrating our 40 th.aniversery. We will have a blast watching people look and find one for yourself. My grown daughter has collected them for her whole life. Thanks for a spark in our life. Daisy Robinson

I’m so sorry for your loss. It sounds like this cruise with you and your mom will be both fun and meaningful for you both. I hope you have an amazing time and these cruise ducks bring joy to you and others on your upcoming cruise.

My adult daughter and I have been cruising since 2011 when I started selling cruises at the travel agency where I work. She found her first cruise duck on the Panorama November 2021, which was her 31st birthday cruise, after the 2020 30th birthday cruise was cancelled. She was curious, as we knew nothing about them. Neither of us facebook. On our Bermuda cruise May 2022, she found another one and was thrilled. She went on a cruise in July with a friend (her first cruise) and her friend found one! My daughter told her about them and they were both so excited. We are planning on taking ducks to hide on our next cruise. We are having fun shopping for them, so far we have bought mermaid and unicorn ducks, just deciding about tags or stickers. Will be on Carnival Celebration in April 2023 and will have fun just hiding them this time. Finding another one would be a bonus! Thank you for your info, it was definitely beneficial.

This is great! Thanks for sharing and have an amazing cruise!

I love this post! It’s ‘lightbulb time’!!

The YMCA I belong to has a ‘Trunk or Treat’ the Saturday night before Halloween. Since my cruise starts 2 days later, Monday the day before Halloween, I’m going to order a BUNCH of ducks to give away to the kids and special needs young folks at the Y, and bring the rest onboard the cruise!!!

FUTURE CRUISE: Navigator of the Seas October 2023 PRIOR CRUISES: Cruise 1 Monarch of the Seas 01/30/06 Cruise 2 Monarch of the Seas 01/22/07 Cruise 3 Monarch of the Seas 01/28/08 Cruise 4 Carnival Paradise 02-08-10

Thank you for the great information. I’m going on my first Cruise for 7 days and this sounds. fun.

Awesome! Enjoy your cruise!

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Duck, duck, cruise: What to know about rubber ducks on cruise ships

I packed a lot of unnecessary things for my family’s first cruise on the Norwegian Escape this past spring: extra clothes, portable fans, a waterproof phone case I never used – you get the idea. 

My in-laws, who are avid cruisers, packed what may seem like the least necessary things of all: rubber ducks.

Having never taken a real cruise before, I had no idea people hide rubber ducks on ships for fellow passengers and crew to find. 

Like pixie dust at Disney parks, these little trinkets serve no purpose other than spreading joy to strangers. My in-laws were happy to get my kids involved in that, and I was too. 

Here’s what you should know about rubber ducks on cruises:

What is the story behind the cruise ducks?

According to Cruising Ducks , it started a few years ago when family duo Ashley and Abby Davis bought 50 rubber ducks for a spring break cruise. According to their website, they hid several each day, “found people of all ages finding the ducks" and had “the best trip ever.”

There are now multiple Facebook groups dedicated to the activity. The Cruising Ducks - Original group page alone has more than 192,000 members. Many post duck photos, ask questions and share tips. 

Where do you get the ducks? 

You can order all sorts of rubber ducks online. For this trip, my in-laws bought an assorted bag of ducks with different themes and colors on Amazon. 

People can get really creative. On a previous cruise, my in-laws found a duck in a face mask hammock with a tiny face mask over its bill. They also found a duck with a homemade sombrero and tiny guitar.

3 tips for your first cruise: What to know before stepping foot on the ship

What do you put on cruise duck tags? 

A tag tied around the ducks’ necks often shares the name of the person or people behind the duck, as well as their sailing.

Our family’s tags said: "Oh what luck! You found a duck! ... Keep or hide, you decide. (Not in shops, pools, or hot tubs.) Please take a selfie with your duck and post it to Cruising Ducks on Facebook."

Where do you hide cruise ducks?

Ducks can generally be hidden in public spaces on cruise ships except for pools, spas, or shops. Bathrooms may also be discouraged.

My kids hid their ducks around the atrium, near elevators and stairs, along the corridor to our cabin and outside restaurants. Some people may be more stealth with their hiding spots, but my kids wanted their ducks to be relatively easy to find.

Is it worth it? 

Not going to lie, it takes a little money and some time. Thankfully, my in-laws took care of everything: buying the ducks, making the tags, working with the kids to tie them on and hiding the ducks on the ship.

We didn’t find any ducks ourselves, though several other fellow passengers hid some too.

It was still fun for the kids and a great lesson in doing things for others, with nothing expected in return. And we did get some payback. Several passengers posted photos of the ducks in a Facebook group we joined for the cruise, and the smiles on their faces were totally worth it.

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Disney Cruise Guests Can Not Hide Ducks on the Ship

A popular activity on cruise ships is hiding ducks for other guests to find. Many children and adults enjoy hunting for the ducks while cruising. 

For the last month, there has been a rumour that  Disney Cruise Lines  will ban the practice on their ships. DCL has taken a step in that direction with a recent post on their  Plan Disney website.

“Are we allowed to hide ducks on the ships? Security on our recent Disney cruise were removing them and told us to stop but I can’t find this written anywhere.” Ahoy, Shirley! Thank you for sailing to planDisney with your question. Welcome!  I’ve been hearing rumblings that guests are being discouraged from hiding ducks onboard Disney Cruise ships, so I called the  friendly agents at Disney Cruise Line  to ask if they had an official policy that I could share with you. I was advised that guests cannot hide things, such as rubber ducks in staterooms or public areas on the ship.  I know that this is a popular thing to do for many cruisers onboard, but it sounds like it’s being discouraged and as you said, Crew Members are removing any ducks they spot around the ship. I’ve got kids in my household with eyes that are trained for the ducks onboard so I guess it’s time I inform them to not re-hide any ducks that they might find!  It sounds like now we both have our ducks in a row for future cruises! If you have additional questions, please return to planDisney and ask. My panelist pals and I can help you when you vacation with Disney Cruise Line, Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and Disney Vacation Club. We even have a fun  planDisney podcast  you can check out between your Disney trips to feel close to that Disney magic.  Have a wonderful New Year! Adrianna  Are we allowed to hide ducks on the ships? Se… | planDisney (go.com)

This matches with what a Disney CM reported on Disboards in December.

A Guest  may  bring rubber ducks onboard. However, pool toys (e.g., rubber ducks)  cannot  be used in the pools. Note: Guests cannot hide things, such as rubber ducks, in staterooms or public areas. Disboards

Plastic Ducks are not currently on  the list of prohibited items , but I would not buy any ducks to hide for an upcoming cruise. If you already have a stash of ducks for your next cruise, you could drop them in fish extenders or give them directly to kids or adults on your cruise.

DCL has made a few controversial decisions recently.  The age change in the kids’ club  and  Castaway Club expiration if you don’t cruise or book within five years. Are you sailing soon? Make sure you join your cruise group and sign up for our newsletter to get the latest information.

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Disney Cruise Line Shares Their Official Stance On Popular Rubber Duck Hiding Trend

A fascinating trend amongst avid cruisers has garnered some attention at Disney Cruise Line  – to a point where the fan-favorite hobby has been addressed on the planDisney panel.

What’s Happening:

• Avid cruisers, regardless of what line they may be cruising on, have a favorite hobby of hiding rubber ducks throughout the ship for other cruisers to find and trade.
• Disney Cruise Line is no exception, but is it allowed? One question posed to the planDisney panel regarding this activity gives us the official answer.
• The question originally asked by a reader states that they were told by security to stop hiding the ducks before removing them, but wanted to know the official stance because they couldn’t find it written anywhere.
• According to the planDisney panel member, Adrianna, she reached out to Disney Cruise Line for the official policy, and was told that guests cannot hide things – like rubber ducks – in staterooms or public areas of the ship. She also adds that Crew Members are trained to remove any rubber ducks that may be found around the ship
• Hiding ducks around cruise ships is a trend that started – surprise surprise – on social media, notably Facebook groups where cruisers were encouraged to post photos of the ducks they find on ships. That’s why so many rubber ducks that are found usually come with a tag attached denoting who left it, and what group to share it in.
• The practice is a sort of spin-off of Jeep ducks, where Jeep enthusiasts and owners plant rubber ducks on the brand’s vehicles in public.
• “I've been hearing rumblings that guests are being discouraged from hiding ducks onboard Disney Cruise ships, so I called the friendly agents at Disney Cruise Line to ask if they had an official policy that I could share with you. I was advised that guests cannot hide things, such as rubber ducks in staterooms or public areas on the ship.

I know that this is a popular thing to do for many cruisers onboard, but it sounds like it's being discouraged and as you said, Crew Members are removing any ducks they spot around the ship. I've got kids in my household with eyes that are trained for the ducks onboard so I guess it's time I inform them to not re-hide any ducks that they might find!”

• If you’re interested in climbing aboard a Disney ship yourself (regardless of your stance on hiding rubber ducks), we recommend our friends over at Mouse Fan Travel for help booking your experience.

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