3 Cruising Secrets You Might Not Know

(...but seasoned cruisers Tina and Dave sure do!)

Cruising is one of the most fun and flexible ways to see the world — and the more you know, the better your experience can be. Whether you’re setting sail for the first time or already dreaming about your next voyage, a few insider tips can make your cruise even more memorable (and affordable!).

Today, we’re sharing three cruising secrets you might not know, brought to you by seasoned travel enthusiasts and cruise pros, Tina and Dave from TinaAndDave.com — who have cruised over 60 times across the globe and know a thing or two about maximizing the fun on board. Let’s dive in:

1. There’s a Worldwide Duck Hunt Happening on Cruise Ships

That’s right — there’s an adorable tradition you’ll want to get in on! On many cruise ships, passengers hide small rubber ducks around the ship for others to find. It’s called the Cruising Ducks game, and it started as a simple act of fun and connection among cruisers.

Here’s how it works:

• You bring a few small rubber ducks (Amazon has packs of them!) and tag them with a note such as "You found me! Keep or re-hide!" and your name or social handle if you’d like.
  
  
• You then discreetly hide your ducks in public spaces around the ship. (Be mindful of not hiding them in shops or restricted areas.)
  
  
• Fellow passengers, especially kids, delight in finding them — it’s a simple but joyful way to spread smiles around the ship.
  
  

Tina and Dave always pack a small bag of ducks on their cruises and say it’s a great icebreaker with fellow travelers!

 

2. You Can Negotiate the Price on Specialty Dining

Yes, really. Those specialty restaurants that charge an additional fee? Don’t assume the price is set in stone.

Here’s a pro tip from Tina and Dave:

• If the ship isn’t fully booked or if the specialty dining venues aren’t filling up, restaurant managers often offer discounts or extra incentives — especially on embarkation day or later in the cruise.
  
  
• Visit the restaurant or call to inquire if there are any promotions or specials. You may score a discount, a free bottle of wine, or even a 2-for-1 deal.
  
  

Tina and Dave recommend being friendly and flexible with your dining times — showing interest and asking politely can often unlock a great deal.

 

3. Book with Cruise Experts Who Know the Ropes

There’s no substitute for experience when it comes to cruising. Booking through seasoned pros like Tina and Dave at TinaAndDave.com gives you access to:

• Insider tips and personalized advice based on their 60+ cruises across all major cruise lines and destinations.
  
  
• Exclusive promotions and perks they can secure through their professional relationships with cruise providers.
  
  
• A wealth of knowledge about cabin selection, timing, packing, shore excursions, and more — things you won’t find on generic booking sites.
  
  

As Tina says, “Booking with a pro who’s been there saves you time, money, and guesswork — and makes your cruise that much smoother and more fun.”

 

Final Thought

The cruising world is full of fun traditions, insider tricks, and hidden value — and these three tips are just the beginning. Whether you’re playing the duck game, enjoying a fancy dinner for less, or booking with a pro to unlock the best experiences, a little extra knowledge goes a long way.

For more expert tips, exclusive savings, and personalized help with your next cruise adventure, visit TinaAndDave.com — expert tips, epic trips, and exclusive savings from travelers who’ve been there.