Emrys Thakkar

Founder, Managing Editor, Director

The founder of Cruise Hive, Emrys has been reporting on the cruise industry since 2008. Expert insights and tips featured on a number of publications including The Express, Business Insider, Fodor's Travel and more. Worked for Carnival for 8 years and traveled to more than 34 countries and been on over 100 cruises.

How did you get started in cruises?

My first-ever cruise was on the Carnival Glory in 2004 as my sister worked as part of the entertainment department onboard. Since then, I’ve been hooked on all things cruise. I decided to work for Carnival Cruise Line in 2005, with my first ship being the Carnival Sensation. I’ve worked on many cruise ships including bringing out the Carnival Splendor and Carnival Dream from the shipyard.

Take a look at the photos below from during my time as a Carnival crew member:

What makes you a cruise expert?

I’ve not only been a crew member for Carnival Cruise Line for 8 years, but have also cruised as a passenger on multiple cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and MSC Cruises.

Reporting on the cruise industry since 2008 has given me over 15 years of writing just on cruises, a dedicated experience few can match. My education includes an Advanced National Diploma in Media Studies and Journalism.

In addition to being featured across various outlets and working with brands, I’ve also been featured on the BBC One Show when cruising resumed with MSC Virtuosa in May 2021.

You can check my Muck Rack profile here.
You can find me over on the Cruise Boards too!

What’s your favorite cruise line?

As many say in this industry, my favorite cruise line is the next one I’m sailing with! But will always have a soft spot for Carnival Cruise Line, which is where I gained my passion for cruising and met my future wife Haiyan Ma on the Carnival Liberty.

What’s your top tip for new cruisers?

My top tip would be to never arrive for a cruise on the same day unless you live right next to the port of course! Flights can often get delayed and luggage can get lost, so arriving the night before and getting a hotel will provide a buffer, just in case issues arise. The cruise ship won’t wait for you.

You find out more about the Cruise Hive team right here.

2008
Started at Cruise Hive
483
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Carnival Cruise Line Sends Out Itinerary Change Advisory

arnival adjusts Carnival Paradise's western Caribbean itinerary from Tampa, swapping the Belize and Roatan calls on the July 20 departure.

Holland America Unveils Zuiderdam Upgrades With New Suites

Holland America's Zuiderdam is getting bigger suites, Solo Verandahs, and a new café in Spring 2028. Here's what the Evolution upgrade brings.

Cruise Ship Crew Member Dies After Going Overboard Near Cancun

Princess Cruises confirms a Regal Princess crew member has died after going overboard near Cancun. The ship has resumed its Caribbean voyage.

Crew Member Missing From Regal Princess, Urgent Search Underway

A crew member is unaccounted for aboard Regal Princess off Mexico's coast, prompting an active search and rescue operation.

Royal Caribbean Ships by Size: Largest to Smallest

Here's a rundown of Royal Caribbean ships by size, starting from the largest to smallest by gross tonnage.

How to Text on a Cruise Ship Without Paying a Fortune

Texting at sea doesn't have to cost a fortune. See which cruise lines offer free WiFi and chat apps, plus tips to dodge unexpected cellular charges.

Bonine vs. Dramamine: Which is Better for Motion Sickness?

How do you choose between Bonine vs. Dramamine? Both can fix seasickness. Find out how they compare before your cruise vacation.

Dream Cruise Suites Your Whole Family Will Love

Explore the most incredible cruise ship family suites, featuring in-suite slides, private cinemas, and two-story townhouses across Royal Caribbean, Disney, and more.

P&O Cruise Ships Ranked By Age: Newest to Oldest (2022-2000)

Discover all 7 P&O cruise ships by age, from the newest Arvia (2022) to the oldest Aurora (2000), including sizes, features and recent refits.

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