You’ll come across them on almost any cruise line, lurking on your bed when you return to your stateroom in the evening. Towel creations are somewhat of a cruise staple, lovingly created to give passengers a little giggle. They range from the simple to the simply unbelievable, and although cheesy, are a beloved feature of the cruising life.

For regular cruisers, they have become so popular that if the cabin steward does not create them people go to guest services to complain.

Essentially, towel folding is a form of Origami, where towels are used instead of paper. Remember the last time you went out for a meal and the napkin was arranging in an upright fan shape? Well, towel animals are like that but on creative overdrive. When you think how many cabins there are on your average cruise ship and all the work that the stewards have to do to get each of them fit for occupation at the end of the day, it’s quite a commendable effort and a testament to their commitment and sense of humour.

For guests who want to make their own towel animals at home, most cruise lines have a published book of Towel Creations, a helpful how-to guide with step-by-step instructions for creating a veritable zoo of towel Origami, everything from frogs, swans and elephants to monkeys, scorpions and rabbits. On sea days you can also find instructive classes on this art form.