A cruise duck is a rubber duck that passengers hide on cruise ships for other passengers to find. The tradition is a fun way for passengers to interact with each other and add some cheer to their cruise vacation. The idea is to spread joy, connect with others, and spark curiosity and happiness. 

The trend is believed to have started in 2018 when a 10-year-old girl named Abby Davis hid ducks on her first cruise for other passengers to find. Her mother, Ashley Davis, noticed that people of all ages enjoyed looking for the ducks. Her parents created a Facebook page for the activity, which has since grown into a large online community. 

• Bring ducks to hide

• Hide the ducks as is, or decorate them with stickers, tags, or ribbons. Ducks often have information cards attached with the name of the person who hid them, where they're from, and other details. 

• Go Duck Hunting

• Take a "duck selfie" and share it on social media. 

• Keep or hide: When you find a duck, you can keep it as a souvenir or gift, or rehide it for someone else to find.

• Hide in public areas:
  Ducks should be hidden in public areas of the ship, but not in shops, pools, hot tubs, spas, or near emergency equipment. 

• Avoid dangerous locations:
  Ducks should not be placed in precarious spots where they risk falling overboard or putting someone in danger. 

• Check with your cruise line:
  The tradition is popular on family-friendly cruise lines, especially Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line. Some cruise lines, like Disney Cruise Line, discourage or prohibit hiding ducks.