Cute Cruise Duck Ideas to Spread Smiles at Sea
If you’ve been on a cruise lately, you might have noticed something quirky and delightful: rubber ducks hidden all around the ship! Cruise ducks are becoming a beloved trend that adds a splash of fun to any voyage. Whether you’re hiding them for others to find or you’re the lucky one to discover one, cruise ducks are a charming way to spread smiles on the open sea.
In this post, we’ll dive into adorable cruise duck ideas, why this trend is so popular, and how you can get involved in the fun!
What Are Cruise Ducks?
For the uninitiated, cruise ducks are small rubber ducks that passengers hide around the ship for others to find. They usually come with a little note or tag, sharing the name of the person who hid it and sometimes encouraging the finder to post about it on social media. It’s a sweet way to brighten someone’s day as they explore the ship.
Pro Tip: Always make sure your ducks are small and lightweight, so they don’t cause any issues on board or become a hazard.
Why Cruise Ducks Are So Popular
Cruise ducks bring a sense of adventure and excitement, especially for families and kids. It’s like a treasure hunt, with the added joy of sharing something whimsical with fellow cruisers. The fun isn’t just in finding ducks but also in hiding them—watching someone’s face light up when they discover your duck is priceless!
Reasons to Join the Cruise Duck Fun:
- It’s a simple way to spread joy without much effort or cost.
- Great icebreaker—strangers can become friends over a hidden duck.
- It adds a touch of personalization to your cruise experience.
Adorable Ideas for Decorating Your Cruise Ducks
If you’re planning to join the trend, why not make your ducks stand out? Here are some creative ideas to make your cruise ducks extra special:
1. Themed Ducks

Personalize your ducks to match the destination or theme of your cruise! For example:
- Tropical ducks with tiny sunglasses for a Caribbean cruise.
- Alaskan explorer ducks with mini hats and scarves.
- Pirate ducks complete with tiny eye patches and pirate hats!
2. Custom Tags and Messages

Attach a small note or tag to each duck with a cute message. Popular options include:
- Your name, cruise date, and where the duck was hidden.
- A fun message encouraging the finder to re-hide the duck.
- Social media handles so the finder can tag you in a post.
Pro Tip: Use waterproof paper or laminate your tags to ensure they don’t get ruined by splashes!
3. Glow-in-the-Dark Ducks

Add some nighttime excitement by using glow-in-the-dark ducks. These are perfect for evening hide-and-seek around the ship’s dimly lit areas, like the pool deck or corridors.
4. Costumed Ducks

Dress up your ducks for added flair! You can find little costumes, hats, and accessories at craft stores or online. Some fun ideas include:
- Superhero ducks with capes.
- Safari ducks with tiny binoculars.
- Disney-themed ducks like Mickey, Minnie, or your favorite characters.
5. Personalized Ducks with Your Cruise Logo

For those who love a bit of DIY, why not design and print a logo for your family or cruise group? Stick your logo on the ducks, making it a keepsake for whoever finds it!
Where to Hide Cruise Ducks
Once you’ve decorated your adorable ducks, the fun begins—hiding them! Here are some of the best spots to stash your ducks while on board:
1. In Common Areas
Some of the most popular places to hide ducks are around the ship’s common areas:
- Near the pool
- On deck chairs
- Around the mini-golf course
- By the ice cream or coffee stations
2. Inside Elevators
Elevators are constantly in use, and someone is sure to find your duck if you hide it in a corner or on top of a control panel. Just make sure it’s somewhere safe!
3. Near Door Decorations
Many cruisers decorate their cabin doors with themes and magnets. Hiding a duck nearby adds an extra surprise for anyone passing by.
4. Around Kids’ Clubs
Children love finding ducks, so try hiding some near the kids’ play areas or around the entrance to the kids’ clubs.
Pro Tip: Avoid hiding ducks in pools, hot tubs, or any areas where they might interfere with safety or cleaning.
Cruise Duck Etiquette: What You Need to Know
While hiding ducks is all about fun, there are a few important etiquette rules to follow:
- Don’t hide ducks in dangerous or off-limits areas, such as lifeboats or engine rooms.
- Avoid places where staff may be inconvenienced or where the ducks could get lost, like near drains or in food areas.
- Make sure your ducks are clean and in good condition to avoid any sanitation concerns.
Pro Tip for Hiders: If you’re hiding ducks with accessories like tiny costumes, ensure they’re well-secured so pieces don’t fall off and create litter.
How to Get Started with Cruise Ducks
Excited to join the cruise duck trend? Here’s how to get started:
- Buy your ducks—You can find inexpensive rubber ducks online in bulk or at local stores.
- Create or buy tags—Make sure to include a fun message, your name, and cruise details.
- Pack your ducks—Pack your ducks in a small bag or box so they’re ready to be hidden as soon as you’re onboard.
- Start hiding—Find fun and creative places to hide your ducks as you explore the ship.
Final Thoughts: Spread the Fun with Cruise Ducks
Cruise ducks are a simple, affordable way to make your trip even more memorable. Whether you’re the one hiding them or the one discovering them, these little rubber treasures bring smiles to faces and a sense of community to the seas.
So why not start your next cruise with a bag full of rubber ducks and a heart full of joy? You never know whose day you might brighten with your adorable surprise!