To the chagrin of some and the delight of others, ducks have been hiding on cruise ships since 2015. However, the real popularization of cruising ducks began in 2018 and has been credited to an 11-year old girl named Abby. She wanted to make others smile so she attached notes to 50 ducks and hid them aboard Carnival Breeze.
Since then, people have taken to Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador John Heald’s social media page to express their joy or displeasure. On different occasions, Mr. Heald has asked followers to vote about the hiding of ducks, asked cruisers opinions about the phenomenon, and on Monday, November 4, 2024, he made a surprising announcement.
“I would like to introduce you to a brilliant and fun addition to the ships. Coming soon to your cruise you’re going to see the continuation of the duck phenomenon. Here with Carnival Jubilee Hotel Director Pierre and Hotel Director and Director of Guest Operations Greg please meet ummmm… Ducky the Duck.”
That’s right! Carnival Cruise Line has a brand new mascot–Ducky. Ducky is currently sailing and posing for pictures aboard Carnival Jubilee. The majority of cruisers and commenters have had a positive reaction to Ducky.
“This makes me smile, yes ducks please.”
“Very cute, and with the enthusiasm of duck hiders/seekers, will be well received……”
“I’d say he will be a HUGE hit with the kiddos. But truthfully, I’d take a photo with him too. Pretty cool idea!”
“I have seen so many cruisers excited beyond belief to find ducks hidden on the ships. It’s amazing how such a little gesture can bring so much joy. Glad to see a new character to help continue that happiness and keep the cruise fun.”
Some commenters did suggest the name could be better, but one commenter had their comment removed with this statement from Mr. Heald, “A very hateful comment…I understand not everybody is going to like this, but to say those words and to chastise the crew in such a way, sorry that’s why I deleted your comment. This duck is not going to be chasing you around the ship, it’s not going to be in your cabin. It’s not going to affect your cruise at all. So to threaten removal of gratuities because of this is quite honestly nonsense. My advice is enjoy your cruise and if you don’t want to have anything to do with the duck, don’t and instead going to do something that brings you fun and happiness. Cheers”
Heald did not indicate when Ducky will sail on each of the Carnival ships, but keep your eyes open! You will see Ducky on the lido of your ship before long.