Carnival Embraces Duck-Hiding Fun—And the Backlash Is Real
The trend of hiding rubber ducks on cruise ships has taken off in recent years, creating a fun and quirky way for passengers to spread a little joy while exploring the high seas.
Carnival Cruise Line is the latest to lean into the phenomenon, making it semi-official with the introduction of their very own mascot, Ducky the Duck.
How the Duck-Hiding Craze Works
If you’ve been on a cruise recently, you’ve probably seen or even participated in the duck-hiding craze. The idea is simple: passengers purchase rubber ducks, decorate them to their liking, and then hide them around the ship for other guests to find.
Many enthusiasts take it a step further by attaching small cards with their social media handles, so finders can share their discoveries online. It’s become a bit of a game, and for many, it’s all about spreading happiness with a small token of kindness.
This trend has taken hold on multiple family-friendly cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line.
However, Carnival took the next step by embracing it more publicly, making it a part of their cruise culture. In November of last year, Carnival’s Brand Ambassador John Heald proudly introduced Ducky the Duck to the fleet, calling it a “brilliant and fun addition” to the Carnival experience.
Not Everyone’s on Board
While many passengers love the idea of finding a hidden rubber duck during their voyage, not everyone is thrilled with the trend.
Recently, Heald posted on Facebook, expressing confusion over the “anti-duck brigade” and asking followers for their thoughts on the subject. His post quickly sparked a debate, racking up more than 8,400 comments.
In another post, Heald shared his perspective, saying, “People that hide ducks for others to find do so because they love to give other people a little dollop of happiness and joy. I understand that it’s not for everyone, but I don’t get why some folks are adamant that we ban this cruise phenomenon immediately.”
This comment caught the attention of passengers, some of whom were quick to defend the trend. One follower shared a personal story, explaining how finding ducks on a cruise helped lift her spirits while battling cancer. Another mentioned the joy her niece got hiding ducks onboard and how it quickly became a ‘core memory’ while at sea.
Others emphasized that the ducks are hidden discreetly and that the trend doesn’t really interfere with anyone’s experience unless they choose to engage.
The Duck Defenders Speak Out
While many rallied behind the rubber duck movement, some passengers still couldn’t understand what all the fuss was about. Jennifer, a fellow commenter, summed it up perfectly: “It brings others joy; it doesn’t affect me, so go right ahead. It’s not like there are ducks everywhere. They are ‘hidden.’”
Others, like one user, joked, “Some people cannot be happy. They have to find something to complain about. I personally don’t hide ducks, but when I find one, it makes me smile!” The majority of responses seemed to suggest that if you’re not a fan of the trend, the simple solution is to just ignore the ducks and let those who enjoy it have their fun.
One commenter went even further, saying, “Ducks are fine. Ban people that complain about stuff that doesn’t impact them.”
Ducky the Duck: Carnival’s Newest Mascot
Despite the complaints, the duck-hiding trend is clearly here to stay. As the craze continues to grow, Ducky the Duck has already made appearances on select Carnival ships, becoming a lovable mascot for the movement. With its warm and fuzzy charm, Ducky is spreading smiles and fostering a sense of community among passengers.
Final Thoughts: Is the Duck Trend Here to Stay?
While some passengers may never embrace the quacky fun, it seems clear that for many, the trend has become a lighthearted way to add a little magic to their cruise experience.
Whether you’re Team Duck or Team Buzzkill, one thing is certain: Carnival is leaning into the fun, and Ducky the Duck is here to stay.
So, whether you’re on a Carnival cruise or another line that embraces the trend, keep an eye out for a rubber duck. Who knows? You might just find one, and it might just bring a smile to your face along the way.
After all, in the end, it’s all about spreading a little happiness—one rubber duck at a time.
