Uncovering the History of the Carnival Cruise "Hidden Coins"

For years, cruise enthusiasts have whispered about a curious tradition onboard Carnival ships: the presence of hidden coins. While not truly "hidden" in the sense of a secret treasure hunt, these coins are often placed in less obvious locations on the ships, sometimes even sealed in boxes near key structures like the radio mast.

The Tradition's Deep Roots

This practice, while often associated with Carnival's "Fun Ship" concept and its playful atmosphere, actually has roots in ancient maritime traditions. Historically, shipbuilding involved placing coins beneath the mast during the "stepping the mast" ceremony. This was believed to appease sea gods and ensure the safe passage of the ship and its crew. The Romans and Greeks, in particular, practiced variations of this tradition.

The Carnival Twist

Carnival Cruise Line has carried on this tradition, adapting it for modern ships and their unique features. While the original purpose involved actual masts, today, the coins are often placed near modern navigational equipment like the radar mast or even welded to the ship's hull during construction.

Not a Scavenger Hunt, but a Fun Discovery

It's important to clarify that finding these coins isn't a formalized ship-wide treasure hunt organized by Carnival. However, the discovery of these coins by curious passengers adds an extra layer of enjoyment and a sense of shared experience within the cruising community. Many cruise enthusiasts enjoy trying to spot them and share their discoveries online.

Where to Look?

While there's no guarantee of finding a coin on every ship or in the same location, common places include:

• Near the radio or radar mast: Often on upper decks.

• Observation decks at the front of the uppermost deck: This area provides good vantage points.

• Sometimes near the funnel: As seen on ships like the Carnival Magic.

A Blend of Tradition and Fun

The Carnival hidden coin tradition is a fascinating example of how a historical practice can evolve and become part of a modern-day cruise experience. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of maritime customs and the fun of discovery that awaits passengers onboard a Carnival cruise. So next time you're on a Carnival ship, keep an eye out for these special tokens – you might just stumble upon a piece of history!

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