Cruise ducking: Spread joy at sea

Why are people hiding ducks on cruise ships?

The “cruising duck” trend has become one of the most lighthearted and beloved activities at sea. All across cruise ships worldwide, travelers hide small rubber ducks in public areas for other passengers to discover. Each duck is usually tagged with a cheerful note or the name of the ship and sailing date, turning it into a tiny souvenir of an unexpected moment of joy. Finding a duck isn’t random—it’s a deliberate act meant to brighten someone’s day and create a fun, shared experience among strangers who happen to be sailing together. Over the years, this quirky pastime has evolved into a global cruise-community tradition, cherished by first-time cruisers and seasoned travelers alike.

Where did cruising ducks begin?

The origin of cruise ducks stems from simple human connection. Around 2018, families on various cruise lines began hiding decorated rubber ducks for fun, inspiring others to join in. Social media played a major role—posts of smiling passengers holding newly found ducks spread quickly, encouraging more cruisers to bring their own. Today, multiple cruise lines permit this wholesome activity as long as ducks aren’t placed in restricted or hazardous areas.

People hide and find ducks for many reasons:

• To share a random act of kindness while at sea
• To create a memorable moment for other travelers
• To connect with fellow cruisers and spark conversation
• To participate in a social media trend that documents duck discoveries
• To add a personal, playful flair to their vacation experience

This grassroots tradition continues to grow as more passengers embrace the excitement of hiding, hunting, and sharing their cruising duck stories.

Tips for hiding ducks safely

If you want to join the fun, a few practical tips keep the activity safe and ship-friendly. Each duck should be tagged—usually with a waterproof label—so the finder knows it’s part of the cruising duck trend. Place ducks only in public, non-obstructive areas, and always avoid locations where they could interfere with ship operations, staff workflows, or safety equipment. Weatherproof, lightweight ducks hold up best in humid or outdoor areas of the ship.

Cruising Duck Placement Checklist

• Use waterproof tags that identify the duck as part of the game
• Avoid placing ducks near safety gear (lifeboats, extinguishers, muster stations)
• Do not hide ducks in pools, hot tubs, or restaurants
• Choose clean, accessible, high-traffic areas
• Make sure ducks are not tripping hazards or obstructive
• Inspect ducks before hiding them to ensure they’re clean and damage-free
• Avoid placing ducks where they may fall overboard

Following these simple guidelines keeps the tradition safe—and keeps cruise lines happy to allow it.

What to do when you find a duck

If you find a duck on your cruise, you have options: You can keep it as a souvenir, re-hide it for someone else to discover, or post your find online to share the excitement with the cruising duck community. The spirit of the game is reciprocity—many cruisers bring a bag of their own ducks to hide throughout the voyage, spreading joy from deck to deck. A quick photo and a friendly post help keep the tradition alive, especially in Facebook cruise groups where travelers share their discoveries.