Cruise lines crack down on rubber duck hiding trend

Several cruise lines are implementing new rules to discourage a popular passenger trend involving the hiding of rubber ducks on ships. The practice, which has grown into a global community, involves passengers leaving small plastic ducks in various locations for others to find, often accompanied by notes and social media updates.

Marella Cruises has notified passengers via newsletter that crew members are being driven to distraction by the trend. The company stated that these items can pose security risks and conflict with efforts to reduce plastic waste and prevent littering. Consequently, the crew has been instructed to collect and dispose of any left-behind ducks or toys.

Disney Cruise Line has also previously requested that guests refrain from hiding ducks. The trend is supported by large online communities, such as the ‘Cruising Ducks’ Facebook group, which has nearly 330,000 members. While the tradition is intended as a harmless game, cruise operators are increasingly viewing the abandoned items as operational and environmental concerns.