I'm not saying ducks are bad/not worth it. I adore my ducks. They are so charming and sweet. I spend several hours a day admiring them, taking them on walks, and playing with them in my garden. Being unhappy with them for their messiness would be like being unhappy with a cat for using a litter box. And I love how my ducks quack. It is one of my favorite things.Yes, they are messy....and loud.... But, in my opinion, its worth it. I mean they are going to be messy they are birds!
I'm trying to be realistic. If the original poster is overwhelmed with the work load of chickens I'm suggesting that ducks might not be the answer as they are also a lot of work.