What's the deal with ducks on a cruise?

Cruising Ducks are fun for all ages! These ducks can be found on many of the popular cruise ships like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruise Line, and Norwegian.

A vibrant wall of perfectly aligned rubber ducks creates a playful and whimsical display.

Cruising Ducks offer a delightful and engaging way for cruise passengers to connect with one another through a whimsical hide-and-seek game that utilizes cheerful rubber ducks. This interactive experience not only adds an element of surprise and excitement to your cruise but also fosters a sense of community among travelers. Before embarking on your journey, it's a great idea to order a selection of colorful rubber ducks and personalize them by adding labels. These labels can include fun messages, your name, or even a unique hashtag that will help you track the ducks' adventures on social media. Once you are aboard the ship, you can begin the fun by strategically hiding these little rubber companions in various nooks and crannies around the cruise liner, making sure to pick spots that are both clever and accessible for other guests to find. As you explore the ship, keep your eyes peeled for the hidden ducks placed by fellow passengers. The thrill of discovering a rubber duck tucked away in an unexpected location can bring joy and laughter, creating memorable moments during your trip. This playful activity encourages social interaction, as passengers often share their findings and experiences, leading to new friendships and shared stories. You may even find that some guests have taken to decorating their ducks with accessories or creating themed ducks that reflect different aspects of their personalities or interests, adding yet another layer of creativity to the game!

The tradition of Cruising Ducks began in 2018 when a young girl named Abby Davis, only 10 years old at the time, expressed her desire to bring a bag of rubber ducks on her very first cruise. Her mother, Ashley, observed that passengers of all ages were captivated by the simple yet enjoyable activity of searching for the ducks. This sparked a trend that quickly gained momentum among cruise enthusiasts. What started as a playful idea has transformed into a widespread movement, with many families and individuals joining in the fun by leaving their own rubber ducks for others to find. The sense of camaraderie and shared excitement has made Cruising Ducks a beloved tradition that enhances the cruise experience for countless passengers each year.

This set has everything that you need to easily put together your ducks and pack them in your luggage for the fun. This delightful set includes a variety of colorful rubber ducks, each with its own unique design and personality, making it an exciting adventure for both kids and adults. You and your family can personalize each duck by putting your names, cabin number, or any other fun information you'd want the finder to know. This personal touch not only adds a layer of excitement but also encourages creativity and imagination in your children. My kids and I did this recently, and it couldn't have been any more fun! We spent an afternoon decorating our ducks with markers and stickers, discussing what fun messages we would write to the future finders. We even had some left at our cabin door, creating a little surprise for anyone who might stumble upon them. This simple yet engaging family activity turned into a cherished memory that they still talk about with enthusiasm and joy. It really makes exploring a new ship even more hands-on and interactive! The thrill of hiding the ducks in various spots around the ship and anticipating their discovery by other passengers added an element of adventure to our trip. We felt a sense of community, knowing that we were spreading joy and surprise to fellow travelers. This activity not only entertained us but also sparked conversations with other families who were intrigued by our little project. Overall, this experience has become a treasured part of our family traditions, and we look forward to doing it again on our next adventure!

150 Pack Ducks with Tags Kit

My daughter after finding her first duck after boarding!

Now for what to avoid when purchasing and bringing your ducks:

When it comes to selecting and bringing your ducks for a fun and memorable experience, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure that the activity remains safe, enjoyable, and within the guidelines set forth by the cruise line. Below are detailed points on what to avoid:

1. Avoid using inappropriate ducks. It is crucial to select ducks that are suitable for the environment and the activity. This means avoiding ducks that are overly large, heavy, or made from materials that could pose a risk to others. Consider the size and type of ducks that will blend well with the cruising experience and ensure that they are appropriate for the setting.

2. Do not hide liquid-filled duck items. Ducks that contain liquid can pose a significant risk if they leak or break. Not only could this create a mess, but it may also lead to slippery surfaces that could cause accidents. Always opt for solid, durable ducks that do not contain any liquid components to ensure everyone's safety.

3. Refrain from using duck-shaped soaps or materials that could melt and create hazards. While it may be tempting to incorporate novelty items like duck-shaped soaps, these can be problematic. If they melt due to heat or humidity, they can create sticky surfaces or even attract unwanted pests. Stick to durable, non-perishable items that will hold up throughout the duration of your trip.

4. Do not use ducks with moving parts, as many cruisers are barefoot and we want to prevent injuries. Ducks that have moving parts can be a safety hazard, especially in environments where people are walking around barefoot. Sharp edges or protruding pieces can cause cuts or injuries. Choose ducks that are simple in design and free from any components that could potentially harm someone.

5. Do not use edible ducks or attach edible items to the ducks. Edible items can attract unwanted wildlife or create a mess that is difficult to clean up. Additionally, they can lead to issues with allergies or dietary restrictions among guests. It’s best to keep the ducks strictly as non-edible decorative items to avoid any complications.

6. Do not attach money to the ducks, as it can create unrealistic expectations. While it might seem like a fun idea to attach money to your ducks as a surprise, this can lead to misunderstandings or disappointments among those who find the ducks. It’s important to keep the experience light-hearted and not create expectations of monetary rewards.

7. Avoid using tiles or rocks, as they can break easily and cause damage. Safety first! Hard materials like tiles and rocks not only risk breaking and creating sharp shards, but they can also damage the surfaces where they are placed. To ensure a safe environment, stick to soft, lightweight materials that won’t pose a danger to anyone.

8. Do not hide ducks in stores, pools, restaurants, or staff-only areas. Respecting the boundaries of designated areas is essential. Hiding ducks in places where they shouldn't be can lead to confusion or frustration among staff and other guests. Always choose appropriate, accessible locations for hiding your ducks that align with the cruise line's policies.

Note: Disney Cruise Line no longer allows this activity.

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