Some cruisers have taken to hiding rubber ducks onboard cruise ships as a fun and quirky activity for others to find. What originally began as a young girl’s idea has turned into a tradition with plastic ducks being sold for up to $25 each. There are YouTube tutorials on the best places to hide them and private Facebook groups dedicated to enthusiasts of this activity. The Facebook group Cruising Ducks aims to track the travels of the rubber ducks left onboard by others.
Critics of this practice believe that the tradition has gone too far, with some individuals even paying for a carry-on just to bring their ducks on board. Others have 3D printed multiple ducks for upcoming cruises, prompting backlash from those who believe it is unnecessary and detracts from the cruise experience. Some express concerns about the littering aspect of buying large quantities of cheap toys and leaving them all over the ship. While some cruise lines tolerate the practice, others like Disney Cruise Line have implemented policies limiting the placement of rubber ducks on board.
Some cruisers believe the presence of rubber ducks is a fun and harmless activity that adds an element of adventure to their voyage. They share tips and stories of where they have hidden or found rubber ducks on board. However, there are differing opinions among passengers, with some feeling that the practice is unnecessary and detracts from the overall cruise experience. Individuals who are not fans of the rubber duck trend question its purpose and believe that cruisers should simply enjoy the amenities already provided on the ship.
The popularity of hiding rubber ducks on cruise ships has spread widely among passengers. Some people actively participate in the activity and encourage others to share the travels of the ducks they find. Despite the differing opinions and potential controversy surrounding this practice, rubber ducks have become a unique and unexpected part of the cruising experience for many passengers. Additionally, the sale and trading of rubber ducks among cruisers have turned this seemingly innocent activity into a lucrative business for some. Overall, the tradition of hiding rubber ducks on cruise ships has created a subculture within the cruising community that continues to attract enthusiasts and critics alike.