Cruising during hurricane season requires careful consideration of geographical factors. Since areas like the Caribbean and the Gulf of Mexico are more prone to hurricanes, it’s important to research your destination and choose a flexible cruise line for unexpected weather events.

What is Hurricane Season?

Hurricane season is the time of the year when tropical storms and hurricanes are most likely to occur because of mild weather.

The North Atlantic Hurricane Season

In the Atlantic, hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with the season’s peak occurring in August and September.

During this period, the Atlantic Ocean is warm enough to fuel the formation of tropical storms and hurricanes. In the peak of hurricane season, the Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico water can be as warm as 90 degrees.

The Atlantic hurricane season typically produces 12 named storms, six of which become hurricanes and three of which become major hurricanes. Recently, it was reported that NOAA expects the hurricane season to be more active than normal.

The number and intensity of storms can vary yearly, depending on factors such as ocean temperatures, wind patterns, and atmospheric conditions.

When planning a cruise during hurricane season, it is essential to keep an eye on the weather and to be prepared for the possibility of itinerary changes or cancellations. Cruise lines have contingency plans for dealing with storms, but it is always a good idea to have travel insurance and be flexible with your plans.

Understanding hurricane season and the risks associated with cruising during this time can help you make informed decisions and stay safe while enjoying your vacation.

Cruising During Hurricane Season

If you plan to cruise during hurricane season, it’s essential to monitor the weather forecasts before and during your trip. Cruise lines have established procedures for dealing with adverse weather conditions, and they typically monitor the weather closely to ensure the safety of their passengers and crew.

When booking a cruise during hurricane season, purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations and interruptions due to weather-related issues is also a good idea. Some cruise lines may also offer its own insurance policies that provide additional coverage.

If a hurricane is forecasted to affect your itinerary, the cruise line will typically make necessary changes to the route to avoid the storm. This may include changing ports of call, altering the duration of the trip, or canceling the cruise altogether. 

Suppose a hurricane is expected to impact your vacation directly. In that case, the cruise line directly will likely email you before embarkation day with details about the trip or ports of call changes.

Cruising during hurricane season can be an exciting adventure, but being well-prepared and aware of the risks is essential. By keeping an eye on the weather forecasts, purchasing travel insurance, and understanding the procedures of the cruise line, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable cruise vacation.

Geographical Considerations

The Caribbean is a popular destination for cruises, but it is also one of the areas most impacted by hurricanes. The hurricane season in the Caribbean runs from June to November, with the peak season being from August to October.

When planning a Caribbean cruise during hurricane season, choose your itinerary carefully. Some areas of the Caribbean are more prone to hurricanes than others, and it is important to avoid these areas during hurricane season.

Western Caribbean cruises, which typically include destinations such as Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel, are more likely to be affected by hurricanes than Eastern Caribbean cruises, which usually include destinations such as St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Puerto Rico.

It is also important to note that storms can affect other areas of the Caribbean, such as the ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curacao), the Bahamas, and Bermuda.

Safety Measures and Precautions

When cruising during hurricane season, safety is always the top priority. Fortunately, cruise ships are equipped with advanced technology and highly trained crews to ensure the safety of all onboard. 

One of the most critical safety measures is the captain’s decision-making process. Captains are trained to monitor weather conditions and make informed decisions about the ship’s route and itinerary. For example, if a hurricane is predicted to be in the ship’s path, the captain may alter the course or cancel the trip.

Cruise ships also have advanced safety technology, including radar, sonar, and satellite communication systems. These tools enable the crew to monitor weather conditions and communicate with other ships and emergency services if necessary.

Cruise ships have extensive emergency procedures in place in the event of an emergency. All passengers must participate in a safety drill at the beginning of the trip, which includes instructions on evacuating the ship in an emergency. Crew members are also trained to handle various emergencies, from medical emergencies to fires and floods.

Passengers can take additional precautions to ensure their safety during hurricane season. It is recommended that they pack a basic emergency kit, including a flashlight, batteries, and a first aid kit. They should also stay informed about weather conditions and follow the captain’s instructions.

The Benefits of Cruising During Hurricane Season

Before we go one step further, it’s important to note that planning a cruise during hurricane season can be a gamble. It also comes with several risks, which we’ll discuss in the next section. But definite pluses make this a time of year worth considering.

For one thing, the latter part of the hurricane season falls when most kids are back in school. You still have the tail-end of summer, meaning cruising out of ports like New York City in still-gorgeous weather but with fewer families.

Given that many clans try to fit four or five people into a stateroom, the fewer families on any sailing, the lower the overall number of people aboard. And that means more room for you.

Impact on Itineraries

Cruising during hurricane season can significantly impact itineraries, causing port stops, missed ports, and ship rerouting changes. It is essential for passengers to understand the potential itinerary changes that may occur due to hurricanes and to be prepared for such changes.

Possible Itinerary Changes

Cruise lines have established procedures to monitor weather conditions and make necessary itinerary changes to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. If a hurricane is forecasted to impact a port of call, the cruise line may cancel the port stop and replace it with an alternative port.

In some cases, the ship may need to reroute to avoid the hurricane entirely, resulting in a change of itinerary. These changes may occur before embarkation day or while sailing on your cruise.

Missed Ports and Rerouting

Cruise lines typically offer compensation in the form of onboard credit or a refund of the port fees in case of a missed port. Passengers may also participate in an alternative activity onboard the ship. If the ship needs to reroute, the cruise line will typically provide updates and keep passengers informed of any changes to the itinerary.

Passengers must understand that itinerary changes can occur anytime during the cruise, even after the ship departs from its home port. Passengers should remain flexible and be prepared for potential changes to their itinerary due to hurricanes.

How to Deal with Delays and Cancellations

When cruising during hurricane season, it’s essential to know that delays and cancellations are possible. The safety of passengers and crew is the top priority, and cruise lines will take necessary precautions to avoid any potential danger.

If a storm or hurricane is approaching, the cruise line may alter the itinerary or even cancel the cruise altogether. In this case, passengers will typically be notified as soon as possible and given the option to reschedule or receive a refund.

It’s important to note that cruise lines are not responsible for any additional costs incurred due to delayed or canceled cruises, such as flights or hotels. Passengers should always purchase travel insurance to cover any unexpected expenses.

In the event of a missed port due to weather conditions, the cruise line will typically offer compensation. This may include a refund of port fees or a credit towards a future cruise.

It’s important to review the cruise contract and reservation details carefully to understand the policies and procedures in case of delays or cancellations. By being prepared and informed, passengers can confidently navigate any unexpected situations.

It’s a good idea to print out the Ticket Contract before you accept the terms and conditions for your cruise.

Travel Insurance and Compensation

Cruising during hurricane season can be risky, and travelers are often concerned about what will happen if their cruise is canceled or delayed due to weather conditions. Fortunately, many cruise lines offer insurance and compensation options to protect travelers from unexpected events.

Travel insurance is one of the most important things to consider when booking a cruise during hurricane season. 

Travel insurance can cover various issues, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen luggage. In case of a cruise cancellation due to weather or other reasons, most cruise lines offer a full refund or rescheduling option.

However, outside costs of the cruise, such as non-refundable hotel rooms or airfare with hefty change fees and booked tours or shore excursions outside of the cruise line, are not covered.

Buying insurance during hurricane season is important, and it should be done promptly. 

Why? Two reasons. 

First, if you want a policy with a Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) clause (which we highly recommend), it must be purchased within two weeks of the initial deposit. 

Secondly, to make any hurricane-related claim, the policy has to have been purchased before the storm is named. 

In other words, you cannot wait until the last minute to learn about the hurricane, buy an insurance policy, and attempt to file a claim.

It’s essential to carefully read the cruise line’s ticket contract and the travel insurance policy’s explanation of benefits before agreeing to the terms and conditions.

Some cruise lines may also offer compensation for inconveniences caused by weather-related delays or cancellations, such as additional hotel stays or transportation costs. It’s important to check with the cruise line to see what compensation options are available.

Port taxes and fees are another consideration when booking a cruise during hurricane season. If a port is closed due to weather conditions, cruise lines may be required to refund these fees to travelers.

Travelers should also watch for special offers and lower prices for cruising during hurricane season. While booking a cruise at a lower price may be tempting, it’s important to consider the potential risks and understand the cruise line’s cancellation policy.

Tips for Cruising During Hurricane Season

Cruising during hurricane season can be daunting, but it can still be a great vacation with the proper preparation and attitude.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the potential challenges of cruising during hurricane season:

1. Choose Your Destination Wisely

When planning a cruise during hurricane season, choosing your destination wisely is important. Some areas are more prone to hurricanes than others, so do your research and select a destination that is less likely to be affected.

For example, cruises to Alaska or Europe are less likely to be impacted by hurricanes than cruises to the Caribbean or the Gulf of Mexico.

2. Be Prepared for Seasickness

The seas can be rough during hurricane season, so preparing for seasickness on a cruise is important. Bring any necessary medication or remedies, such as ginger or motion sickness bands, and consider booking a cabin in the middle of the ship, where the motion is less noticeable.

3. Have the Right Attitude

When cruising during hurricane season, having the right attitude is essential. Understand that the weather is out of your control and that the ship’s crew is doing everything possible to keep you safe. Stay positive and enjoy the other aspects of your cruise, such as the onboard activities and entertainment.

4. Have a Backup Plan for Travel

Be flexible. If a hurricane does impact your cruise, it’s essential to have a backup plan for travel. 

Purchase travel insurance covering weather-related cancellations and delays, and have a plan for alternate travel arrangements, such as flights or hotels.

Following these tips and being prepared, you can still enjoy a fantastic cruise during hurricane season.

Frequently Asked Questions

This article was original published in 2019 and updated in 2024.

No, not because you love cruising and have it on the brain 24/7 — although that might be true — but because it seemed a likely scenario. Maybe, on some level, we’re sort of expecting it.

How Big Is Too Big?

Size Matters… In More Ways Than One

But what happens when that pent-up desire has been sated? Or, God forbid, when an unexpected disaster strikes fear into the heart of would-be passengers, driving capacity down as they seek other ways to spend their vacation dollars?

Cruising isn’t going anywhere (thank God). But maybe, just maybe, it would behoove lines to follow in the footsteps of the automobile industry, which at a certain point said, “Hey, maybe not all of our vehicles need to be Cadillacs and Hummers. After all, something must be said for fitting into a smaller parking space.”

Or, in the case of cruise ships, port.

While the statue is undoubtedly a good thematic fit with the ship’s Italian theme, only time will tell if it sets tongues wagging here as it did during its previous tenure.

Some Find the Statue Offensive

The artwork in question is the very famous — and famously nude — statue of David, which has been considered one of the greatest pieces ever created even as it has, from the start, left some proclaiming its depiction of the male body “obscene.”

The statue would make the perfect wedding gift if the Firenze were a bride. Why? Because it meets the traditional requirements of being something old, new, borrowed, and blue.

You see, the replica of the infamous state of David is based on something old (the original was crafted in the 1500s), it’s moving to a new home, it’s kinda sorta been “borrowed” from the Carnival Pride and those offended by David’s nudity would say artist Michelangelo was working “blue.”

Aboard the Pride, the statue stood in the steakhouse bearing its creator’s name. But when the ship emerged from a 2023 drydock, it did so with a rebranded steakhouse and without the state.

While Carnival never officially addressed its removal, Brand Ambassador John Heald has historically referenced the statue’s nudity and offended some guests.

Will David Wear A Figleaf?

At various points, Carnival tried to address the complaints of more conservative guests by adorning David’s privates with a figleaf. After the adornment was removed several times, Carnival took a more permanent step by outfitting the faux Italian stallion with a more permanent clay-molded covering.

As it turns out while David is now moving to a ship with a more European sensibility, his naughty bits will remain covered.

The debate over David’s appropriateness rages on, however. One woman was so traumatized by “it” being in her face during a special anniversary dinner on the Pride that she told the story in the comment section beneath one of Heald’s posts.

Over the years, Carnival Pride has seen its share of nudity, after all, it was home to the 2022 Bare Necessities Nude Cruise.

Of the over 5,000 comments, however, most said that the fuss was, in essence, much ado about nothing. One asked if those who’d been offended had “ever walked by the pool? That offends me! If you don’t like it, go buy a yacht!”

Where to See the Real Deal

If you want to see the original, uncensored statue of David, you’ll have to take a Mediterranean cruise to Italy, where the 17-foot statue stands at the Accademia Gallery of Florence (accessible by a ship that stops in Livorno). 

Fun Fact: It has been said that Michelangelo moved at a turtle’s pace while creating his signature masterpiece, starting the sculpture in 1501 and completing it in 1504. 

As for the imitation’s new home, the Carnival Firenze was built for sister line Costa, and is the second to be rebranded under the “Carnival Fun, Italian Style: program. 

The first vessel, Carnival Venezia, themed after the city of Venice, entered service out of New York City in June 2023. 

Firenze, Italian for Florence, will sail from Long Beach, California on April 25, 2024.

Carnival Firenze Ship Tour

What Happens Next

In a statement posted to Brand Ambassador John Heald’s page, Carnival Cruise Line acknowledged that the ship “experienced a fire in the port side of the exhaust funnel on Saturday. Our onboard team acted quickly to contain and put out the fire. While we continue to investigate multiple eyewitness reports of a lightning strike, our technical team completed a thorough assessment during the ship’s visit to Freeport.”

Initially, Carnival speculated that future cruises might be able to take place. That, however, is not proving to be the case. “Regrettably,” the statement went on to say, “the damage is more than we first thought and will require an immediate repair to stabilize the funnel, resulting in the cancellation of the March 25 and March 30 cruises from Port Canaveral.”

So what will happen over the next few days? “The funnel has been stabilized for the ship’s return to Port Canaveral overnight to disembark guests,” Carnival reports, “and then it will go to the Freeport shipyard on Monday afternoon to begin the required repairs.” Aware of how much this last-minute change will disrupt vacation plans, Carnival is providing those who’d expected to sail on the now-axed voyages both a full refund and a 100 percent Future Cruise Credit.

So far, there has been no word on whether or how those on board at the time of the incident might be compensated.

“People Were Panicking”

Fire is, of course, one of the most dangerous situations which can take place on a ship, especially when — as was the case with the Freedom — the vessel is at sea. As one on-board guest reported on Heald’s Facebook page, “People were panicking and upset, as it took several hours to [extinguish] the fire. It was pretty nerve-racking to say the least!” Ultimately, they added, “We are thankful the fire was stopped and nobody was hurt.”

Cruise followers will no doubt recall that this same ship suffered a strangely similar nearly two years ago when the funnel caught fire. In the wake of that incident, the iconic “whale tail” was removed entirely and not replaced until October of 2023, a full 17 months later.

READ NEXT: “Incident” Leaves Two Crew Members Dead On Cruise Ship

While details are still unfolding, a statement from Carnival Cruise Line — as well as eyewitness reports provided to Cruise Radio — indicate that a lightning strike may have caused the Carnival Freedom fire.

What Started Cruise Ship Fire?

Several passengers reached out to Cruise Radio with news of the fire. One such passenger, Heath Barnes — who also provided us with photographs — reported that he was outside reading and saw a large lightning strike, followed by people screaming. Upon looking from his balcony, he could see the flames.

Soon after, he continued, and the Captain announced that the cause was being investigated. As for the screams, they appear to have been from startled passengers. “It was,” Barnes admits, “the loudest thunder and lightning that I’ve ever heard.”

By early evening, the Captain had announced that passengers had reported seeing the funnel hit by lightning but added that this was not confirmed.

He continued, “The ship’s fire response team was quickly activated, and the ship’s captain also turned the vessel towards the heavy rain the area to maximize the efforts to put out the flames.

Eyewitnesses reported the possibility of a lightning strike, and that is being investigated but can not yet be confirmed. As of 5:20 p.m., it appears that the fire is fully extinguished.

“The Captain has made multiple announcements to guests and crew and advised all but essential safety personnel to stay away from balconies and all open decks.

There are no reports of injuries to guests or crew. The port-side portion of the funnel has fallen onto deck 10 and the fire response [team] has put out any flames. The U.S. Coast Guard has been notified and Carnival has activated its incident response team to support the ship’s crew. There are no operational issues with the ship’s systems and the ship is expected to arrive to Freeport on Sunday morning.”

What Happened Last Time

The unfolding situation is eerily familiar to a scenario that unfolded nearly two years ago. In May of 2022, Carnival Freedom‘s funnel caught fire while the ship was docked at the Grand Turk Cruise Center. No crew or guests were injured.

The iconic whale tale was so badly damaged that it had to be removed. It was not until October of 2023 — a full 17 months later, and a short five months ago — that the whale tale was replaced.

The current situation was inherently more dangerous because the ship was at sea with all her passengers and crew on board. When the funnel caught fire in 2022, many passengers were ashore, greatly reducing the risk of passenger or crew harm.

As this is a developing story, we will update this information as it becomes available.

Cruise Ship Incident Being Investigated

While little is known about exactly what happened, a representative for Holland America Line confirmed to Cruise Radio that the incident unfolded upon the Nieuw Amsterdam.

With that in mind, the line is “offering counseling services to team members who may have been affected by this incident.”

What Happens Next?

Passengers on board the ship offered up details in a post on the Cruise Critic message boards, which as of yet, have not been confirmed by the line. “The captain came on [the speaker system] and indicated we had a steam leak and that they were evacuating some crew cabins above the engine rooms,” one passenger reported.

Soon after, they continued, the all-clear was sounded. “At about 3 p.m., the Captain came on and said two crew members had been killed..” While there was no information provided as to how this might impact the ship’s itinerary, passengers reported that the ship was being held at Half Moon Cay pending the unfolding investigation.

While earlier reports indicated that there may have been other injuries, that has not been confirmed.

Half Moon Cay is a private island owned by Holland America Line’s parent company, Carnival Corporation. The Nieuw Amsterdam was constructed in 2008 and entered service in 2009. She is capable of carrying approximately 2100 passengers and 925 crew members. She is the fourth ship in Holland America Line’s history to operate under Nieuw Amsterdam.

Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly reported that the incident involved a fire.

Read on, and we’ll tell you how to enter a contest that could make both of those dream scenarios come true.

How To Win A Free Cruise

The newly launched Sun Princess has an awful lot to offer cruisers. From top-notch restaurants to a glass-enclosed playground that might rival Xanadu, the ship has undoubtedly caught the attention of industry watchers and wanna-be passengers.

Now, Casino.org is holding a contest in which lucky winners will be “tasked” with enjoying a free cruise during which they take the ship’s casino for a test run and report back.

After playing in the casino, the winner will be asked to judge it based on ten criteria ranging from the variety of games available to the food and beverage served and from the atmosphere to the professionalism of the staff.

In addition to the $500 to be played in the casino, the winner will also receive an additional $500 to spend onboard as they see fit.

What Else Is Included

Because nobody should have to travel alone, the winner can bring a friend on their sailing. They’ll share what the terms and conditions call an “exterior premiere stateroom,” and receive free airfare to the embarkation port and back.

Exactly what ports the 7-day trip departs from and visits will depend on the date of the cruise chosen by the winner.

Speaking of those terms and conditions, among them is that the winner must be 21 years of age or older. Entries from the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. will be accepted; only one entry is allowed per household.

For more information, check out the details (as well as those pesky rules) here.

While what inevitably follows is a discussion of the “break-even point” (which is generally agreed to be around five or six alcoholic beverages a day), that conversation doesn’t provide a full picture of what the Cheers package offers.

To help you decide whether it’s right for you, we will look at what Carnival’s drink package costs, what it covers, what it doesn’t cover, and more.

How much does the Carnival Cheers package cost?

Carnival’s CHEERS! Drink Package now costs $59.95 per person, per day, plus an 18 percent gratuity added at purchase. The drink package price was increased for shorter voyages in December 2023. If you pre-purchase the Cheers Package, this price is 10 percent cheaper than buying CHEERS! onboard.

The program can be pre-purchased up until 10 p.m. on the night before you board the ship.

As of mid-2023, the price of CHEERS! for buying onboard is $64.95 per person, plus the added 18 percent gratuity.

READ MORE: Pros and Cons of Carnival’s Drink Package

Carnival also offers a non-alcoholic program called Bottomless Bubbles, which covers unlimited sodas and juices.

This program runs $9.50 per person, per day for adults, and $6.95 per person, per day for kids, with an 18 percent gratuity automatically added at the time of purchase.

What does Carnival’s drink package cover?

Carnival’s CHEERS! is probably the most inclusive drink package a mainstream cruise line offers. Whenever people on message boards talk about the package, they seem to focus on the fact that it allows for “only” 15 drinks per 24-hour period.

What’s often not mentioned is all of the other things that are covered. So, let’s break it down to give you a complete picture, which might help you decide whether or not the package is right for you.

According to Carnival’s website, the following beverages are covered or discounted under Carnival’s Cheers Package:

• All spirits (including cocktails), as well as beer and wine by the glass, with a $20.00 or lower menu price
• Sodas, Zero-Proof frozen cocktails, energy drinks, specialty coffee, hot tea, 500ml bottled water, and other non-alcoholic bottled beverages
• Milkshakes (where available)
• Large format water bottles in the Dining Room and Specialty Restaurants
• 25% discount off the menu price for any spirit or wine by the glass above $20.00
• 25% discount off the menu price for wine and champagne by the bottle
• 25% discount off beverage seminars and classes

What isn’t covered in Carnival’s drink package (CHEERS!)?

While the CHEERS! Drink Package does cover a lot, there are exceptions. For example, if you order room service or help yourself to the mini-bar in your room, that won’t be covered under the package.

Want a bucket of beer while you’re hanging out at the pool? That’s also not going to be covered by the package.

Interestingly, the Carnival website also lists “food items” as something not covered… because some people don’t know the meaning of “beverage”!

READ MORE: 9 Carnival Drink Package Misconceptions

We had to look up a few things on the “not-covered” list. For example, “tubes.” These tubes contain around 100 ounces of beer and allow you to serve it up draft style, wherever you like.

Here’s what Carnival excludes from the beverage package:

• Beverages promoted and sold in souvenir glasses
• Bottles of liquor
• Beverages offered at Gangway
• Beverages offered through room service, minibars, and in-stateroom beverage programs
• Sharing cocktails, floaters, pitchers, tubes, and buckets
• Beverages are offered through aromatic wine machines
• Freshly-squeezed orange juice from the Havana Bar
• All other beverage-related programs, including merchandise, cigars, and cigarettes
• Food items

How do I activate the CHEERS! program?

While some companies (such as Norwegian Cruise Line) apply a sticker to your key card at check-in to indicate that you’ve purchased a drink package, Carnival handles things slightly differently.

Guests who have pre-purchased the CHEERS! Drink Package find a card in their stateroom that indicates where they should go to activate the program.

The computer automatically tells the bartender you have the drink package, so don’t sweat if your sail and sign card has no sticker. You can pick one up at any bar or the guest services desk if you’d like one.

READ: 12 Bars and Lounges on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

It’s worth noting that while the program kicks in immediately in most cases, cruises sailing out of Galveston, Texas and New York City are slightly different. You’ll notice that if you purchase the package from those ports, the length of the package is one day shorter than the length of your cruise.

That’s because of the CHEERS! Program doesn’t kick in until 6 a.m. on the second day of your voyage out of those two ports. So, if you depart from Galveston or New York City, any beverages you have on that first day will be charged to your Sail & Sign account.

Do I still need to tip the bartender with Cheers package?

Technically, no, as you’ve already paid a gratuity as part of the price of the beverage package. That said, we’re big believers in the power of tipping. We tend to tip the bartender if there’s a bar we know we’ll be spending a lot of time.

Will you still get excellent service if you don’t? Of course. But unless you’ve never set foot in a bar before, we probably don’t have to tell you that a little extra cash (not to mention a friendly attitude) can help make sure you stand out from the crowd.

The program is refundable, but only until 9:00 p.m. the day before your cruise is scheduled to sail.

Finally, CHEERS! is not always available on European itineraries, two-day voyages, or charter cruises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Celebrity Solo Cruise Pricing

Over the past few years, a growing number of people have opted to travel solo. As a result, several cruise lines have made major strides in their efforts to woo those would-be passengers.

Most notably, Norwegian Cruise Line introduced solo staterooms built around a centralized lounge on several of their newer ships, while also announcing plans to offer lower pricing on select staterooms across all cabin categories, fleet-wide.

Celebrity Cruises, however, seems to be taking a different path. Solo cruisers have, for years, become accustomed to paying a “single supplement”, which meant they were charged double occupancy rates despite being a stateroom’s only occupant.

While many complained, others rationalized that it was somewhat akin to staying in a hotel, where prices do not vary based on single or double occupancy. (This is something of a false equivalency, of course, as hotel rooms do not typically include meals, entertainment and other extras which are folded into the cruise fare.)

Celebrity Cruises, however, is now charging those who opt to travel solo more than twice the going rate for a room.

According to two sources close to Celebrity’s sales department, the move is being made to counter the loss of additional onboard revenue generated by a second guest. In other words, money they would have spent in the casinos, shops and restaurants above and beyond the initial cruise fare.

This comes as parent company Royal Caribbean Group has reported record bookings at higher-than-expected pricing and significant upticks in onboard spending.

The concept is simple. Passengers purchase rubber ducks, customize them with mini tags, and discreetly hide them in spots around the cruise ship. Fellow cruisers then try to locate the ducks, take pictures, and often re-hide them for the next person to experience the fun. 

Whether you’re new to the idea of Cruise Ducks or have questions about where to buy or hide them, we’ve got you covered in this ultimate cruise ship duck hunting guide.

Stick around!

What Is the Cruise Duck Phenomenon?

In case you’ve missed out on the cruise duck phenomenon, it’s pretty simple: Folks buy (or, if they’re creative, make) ducks, then hide them around the ship for others to find, enhancing the cruising experience.

Note: Jeep owners do the same thing and call it Jeep Ducking!

Sometimes, the ducks come with notes asking that their original owner be contacted or that, once found, a picture be posted in a specific Facebook group. In other cases, the ducks are decorated with the ship’s name and the sailing date, making them great souvenirs.

Whenever a duck is located, its finder must make a sometimes tough decision: Do they keep it for their collection or, after taking a picture and posting it wherever the tag asks, do they re-hide it for someone else to find?

I find it fascinating how such a small gesture can bring so much excitement to fellow cruisers. These adorable critters often come in various colors, designs, and sizes, making the hunt even more thrilling.

The main purpose of hiding and finding these ducks is to spread joy and foster a sense of community among passengers.

Most come with a tag attached to help differentiate cruise ducks from rubber ducks. The tag typically contains the name of the person who placed the duck, along with some basic instructions on what to do when one is found.

Here’s a typical format for cruise duck tags:

• Name: John Doe (you can use your real name or a nickname)
• Date Hidden: November 27, 2023
• Message: “Congratulations on finding me! Please take a photo with me and post it on social media using the hashtag #CruiseDuck. Feel free to re-hide me so someone else can share the fun!”

I’ve seen creative ways to hide these distractions on a cruise ship – tucked in plants, perched on balcony railings, or even nestled in elevator corners. 

That said, you must always prioritize the safety and cleanliness of the ship and its passengers. It’s crucial not to interfere with the ship’s property or operations while placing a cruise duck.

How Did Cruise Ducks Become a Sensation?

Although credit for the trend is given mainly to a 10-year-old girl named Abby, who hid about 50 ducks on the Carnival Breeze in the spring of 2018, references can be found to people playing hide-and-seek with the adorable plastic creatures as far back as 2015 on cruise vacations.

Abby’s adventure, however, seems to have kicked things into high gear and started a movement, the main purpose of which is simply to make other people smile.

It’s also been suggested that cruising ducks are a distant relative of the painted-rocks phenomenon, essentially a landlocked version of the same game.

Cruise ducks aren’t the only rubberized animals that find their way on board. While many different animals can be found, pigs are the second most popular variety, with flame-red devil ducks also showing strongly.

Types of Cruise Ducks: A Guide for Cruisers

I have come across numerous themed ducks that make the entire experience more fun and engaging for cruise ship passengers. Let me share with you some of the most popular and creative variations that can be found on board a cruise ship.

Cruise ducks can be categorized into the following themes: 

• Pirate
• Christmas
• Halloween
• Easter
• Origami ducks

Pirate-themed cruise ducks are a favorite among seafaring adventurers. Often adorned with eye patches, tiny pirate hats, and even miniature treasure maps, these delightful duckies bring an element of whimsy to any voyage.

A few pirate duck examples include:

• Captain Quackbeard, complete with a felt beard
• Buccaneer Duck, which sports a scarf and a gold earring
• Pirate Parrot Duck, a clever twist with its parrot-inspired design

If you cruise during the holiday season, you might come across Christmas cruise ducks. These festive rubber ducks are often dressed up as Santa Claus, reindeer, or snowmen, and they can add a touch of holiday cheer to your journey. 

My personal favorites include:

• Santa Duck, with a little red hat and a white beard
• Reinduck, featuring antlers and a bright red nose
• Snow Duck, a small snowman in duck form, complete with a top hat

For those looking to celebrate Halloween on a cruise, themed ducks can be found sporting various spooky disguises. 

These ducks may be available during October, and some examples are:

• Dracula Duck, a vampire duck with a cape and fangs
• Mummy Duck, wrapped in white gauze, like an ancient Egyptian
• Witch Duck, often found in a green state, wearing a pointy hat

If you’re fortunate enough to enjoy an Easter cruise, watch for ducks dressed as bunnies or in other Easter-themed attire. Some of these adorable rubber ducks include:

• Bunny Duc, donning bunny ears and a fluffy tail
• Egg Painter Duck, featuring an artist’s palette and paintbrush
• Spring Flower Duck, surrounded by colorful blossoms

Lastly, some enthusiasts enjoy creating origami ducks while on a cruise for a creative and artistic twist. Constructed from paper, these ducks are a beautiful, eco-friendly alternative to traditional rubber ducks.

Origami ducks come in various shapes and colors, each a small masterpiece. I have seen passengers leave behind their creations as tiny surprises for fellow cruisers to discover.

Where to Buy Cruise Ducks for Your Next Cruise

When it comes to purchasing cruise ducks, people have different preferences and needs. Some like to decorate or hand paint each duck independently, while others (like me) would just buy a bulk order of them online for their next cruise.

As someone who spends too much time looking for the best cruise ducks, I can recommend and trust a few sources I have used.

Some popular online platforms which offer a variety of cruise ducks for sale are:

• Amazon: A trusted and reliable marketplace with a vast collection of cruise ducks from various brands and price ranges.
• Etsy: Here, one can find unique and handmade cruise ducks crafted by talented artists and small businesses.
• eBay: For those who like to hunt for great deals or collectible items, eBay is the go-to place for buying cruise ducks.

I will say that I’ve used Amazon and Etsy the most.

Getting Quacky With Cruise Duck Tag Ideas

A duck tag is essential for bringing your cruise duck to life and sending it on its journey. The tag gives your ducky its backstory and instructions so that each finder can participate in the fun.

You have to be creative with the details when coming up with duck tags. On that account, here are some ideas to help you come up with fun tags:

1. Pick a fun and quirky name like Captain Beaks, First Mate Feathers, or Quack Sparrow. Pirate-themed names are quite popular!
2. Share as many details as possible. Examples: “Hatched in Honolulu,” “Aspires to win a belly flop context,” etc. 
3. Next, you need to add a mini-bio. Examples: “This is my first cruise!” or “I’ve sailed 15 ships; collect me for your flock!” 
4. This is the most fun step; giving wacky instructions! A couple of my favorites are “Take me on a spa day” and “Buy me a tiny paper umbrella drink”. For a romantic twist, you’ll want to go with something like “Take me on your next date” or “I’m looking for love; can you introduce me to other ducks?”. 
5. For photos, ask to do fun poses like “Do the duck face with me!”
6. You can add to the fun by offering a “Duck Finder’s Reward” for returning the duck. The reward can be anything from a drink to a gift mailed home. 

By getting clever with your cruise duck’s tag, you can really set their one-of-a-kind personality and give each finder excitement as they hunt for these hidden treasures. Let your imagination run wild!

The Community and Social Media Influence on Cruise Duck Tradition

Do you think this is just some silly little game played by children? Think again!

Numerous social media groups are devoted to cruising ducks, including the Cruising Ducks Facebook Page, which has over 230,000 members. 

The page is also a great resource, especially for those looking for templates for the “Passports” many use to tag their ducks.

With platforms like Facebook and Instagram, enthusiasts have found a resourceful way to connect and share their passion for these adorable ducks.

One of the most popular ways my fellow cruisers engage with each other is through Facebook groups. These groups provide a platform for members to post pictures of their latest duck finds, share stories of their adventures, and offer helpful information about the best spots to search for ducks aboard cruise ships.

New and seasoned cruise duck enthusiasts can join these groups, participate in discussions, or ask questions.

Moreover, the use of hashtags plays a significant role in connecting people on a global level. By using the hashtag #cruisingducks, members can quickly discover content related to cruise ducks, exchange experiences, and follow the journeys of these cute collectibles.

In addition to the community-driven aspect of cruise ducks, the influence of social media has given rise to an elevated sense of purpose.

The act of hiding and finding cruise ducks has become more than a simple game. It has become a social cause, fostering an environment of kindness and happiness amongst passengers.

These factors contribute to the overall vitality of the cruise duck community on a personal and social level. The passion for cruise ducks spills over into social media, bringing enthusiasts together to celebrate their shared interests. 

Not Everyone Loves Cruise Ducks

Of course, as we all know, every party has that notorious pooper. Perhaps not surprisingly, given how big the whole cruising duck phenomenon has become, this particular party has attracted several varieties of complainers on Facebook.

Some have never seen a duck on board a ship yet are still inexplicably perturbed by the notion. “If I ever see one of these stupid ducks everyone is talking about,” posted one such curmudgeon to Facebook, “I’ll take it home, set it afire, and post a picture of that. Man, people are stupid.”

Others have gone so far as to suggest that rubber ducks should be banned aboard cruise ships, prompting one concerned traveler to ask Carnival Cruise Line’s Brand Ambassador, John Heald, if this would happen on its ships.

He not only assured his Facebook followers that the ducks were welcome on board (“Hide them. Find them. Have fun with them,” he wrote) but assured would-be hiders that “most” of the crew members knew not to throw them away if they came across them.

Where to Hide Cruise Ducks on a Ship?

As a seasoned cruise duck enthusiast, I’ve picked up a few tricks for hiding ducks cleverly and creatively onboard a cruise ship.

Hiding your little rubber friends can be an enjoyable challenge and an engaging game of hide-and-seek for passengers.

• Lounging areas: There are often chairs, tables, and cozy corners where passengers can relax. Tuck a duck beneath a cushion or chair, or place one atop a stack of magazines for a pleasant surprise.
• Pool decks: Hide your duck near the pool’s edge, the steps leading into the water, or under a sun lounger. Be sure to avoid putting your duck directly in the water since it could end up lost or floating away.
• Stairwells and elevators: Try hiding a duck on a stair’s ledge, resting on a handrail, or peeking out from behind an elevator door.
• Buffets and dining rooms: Placing a duck atop a pile of napkins or nestled against the centerpiece on a dining table can be a delightful treat for those enjoying a meal. However, be mindful of food safety and avoid direct contact with food items.
• Cabin hallways: A hallway corner table or a small decorative shelf can serve as a perfect hiding spot, especially if your duck can peek out just enough to catch the eye of a passing passenger.
• In your stateroom: Those wanting to leave a surprise for the next passengers occupying their stateroom have even put a duck or two in the cabin’s safe.

That’s not to say everyone gets creative when placing their plastic friends. Some wind up in places like elevator corners or stairwells, looking for all the world as if they were dropped instead of hidden.

(Note: Always check with your cruise line to make sure cruise ducks are allowed. Disney Cruise Line recently started cracking down on passengers bringing cruise ducks onboard.)

Tips for Finding Cruise Ducks on Your Cruise

I’ve learned that finding cruise ducks can be a fun activity during a sailing. The key to finding them is knowing where to look and how to approach the search.

Here are some valuable tips for finding cruise ducks I’ve discovered.

1. Check popular gathering spots on the ship: Ducks usually gather in specific areas on the cruise ship, such as the pools, garden areas, and open decks. These places tend to have water, plants, and a serene atmosphere that attracts ducks. Watch for them while walking around the ship and during your leisure time.
2. Look during early morning or late afternoon hours: Ducks are most active during the early morning and late afternoon hours. Explore the ship during these times for a higher chance of spotting them.
3. Talk to fellow cruisers and crew members: Don’t hesitate to ask fellow cruisers and crew members for tips on where to find cruise ducks. They can provide valuable insights and may know secret spots where the ducks hide.
4. Be patient and observant: Finding cruise ducks requires patience and a keen eye. Don’t expect to find them immediately, but rather enjoy the process of exploring the ship and its surroundings. With a bit of perseverance, you are bound to spot at least one.

Whether sailing with family/friends or embarking on a solo journey, the simple yet captivating game of hiding and finding cruise ducks adds an extra layer of excitement to your sea voyage.

Why Participate in the Cruise Duck Tradition?

• Builds community: The cruise duck game is a fantastic way to engage with other passengers. It creates an instant topic of conversation and a playful community spirit onboard. As you hunt for or hide these adorable ducks, you’ll find yourself making new friends and sharing joyful moments.
• Fun for all ages: Cruise ducks offer a universal appeal, making them perfect for families with children, couples, or solo travelers. It’s a wholesome activity that brings smiles to cruisers of all ages.
• Memorable souvenirs: Each cruise duck you find becomes a cherished keepsake, a unique souvenir from your cruise. These little ducks often carry the essence of the voyage, whether through a special design, a message, or the story of how you found them.
• Creative expression: For those who love arts and crafts, customizing your cruise ducks is a way to express creativity. From painting to accessorizing, these ducks become a canvas for your artistic ideas.
• Stress relief: Engaging in a light-hearted activity like the cruise duck game can be a great stress reliever. It adds a playful twist to your cruise, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the simple pleasures of a treasure hunt.
• Photo opportunities: Finding and hiding cruise ducks creates unique photo opportunities, adding fun and quirky moments to your vacation photos.

Join the Cruise Duck Movement

If you’re planning your next cruise, consider joining the cruise duck movement. It’s an easy, cost-effective way to add an extra dimension of fun to your journey. 

Share your duck finds on social media, connect with fellow cruisers in online communities, and become part of a growing global phenomenon that celebrates joy, community, and the spirit of adventure.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, cruise ducks offer a fun addition to your sailing, and even introverts can do it! Happy duck hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions