If you can plan ahead, place the whole duck in a large bowl and let it sit in the refrigerator for two to three days. If you need to rush the process or find your duck is taking longer to thaw, place the duck in a large pot in the sink and keep it fully submerged in cold water. Either change the water every 30 minutes or continuously run a small stream of water. Important note: Do not let the duck thaw in room temperature without being submerged in cold water. This can create a breeding ground for bacteria.