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
453
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

RelaxAway Half Moon Cay vs Celebration Key: Which to Pick?

Comparing RelaxAway Half Moon Cay vs Celebration Key? See how Carnival’s Bahamas destinations differ on access, beaches, dining, excursions and vibe.

All Cruise Ship Itinerary Changes Due to Hurricane Isaias

Cruise lines are adjusting itineraries as Hurricane Isaias disrupts the Gulf Coast. Here is the full list of affected ships and sailings so far.

Every Cruise Ship Impacted By Tropical Storm Rachel So Far

Tropical Storm Rachel continues to impact cruise itinerairs on the west coast, with further changes for Carnival and Virgin Voyages.

Are Cruises Safe? The Real Risks and How Ships Protect You

Are cruises safe? We look at overboard incidents, fires, illness outbreaks, hurricanes and the regulations ships must follow, plus tips to stay safe.

Carnival Cruise Line Begins Warning Guests About Tropical Storm Isaias

Carnival has begun sending letters and texts to guests as Tropical Storm Isaias builds in the Gulf. No itinerary changes yet for six ships.

All Cruise Ships Impacted by Major Hurricane Polo

Three cruise ships sailing from Los Angeles have changed itineraries due to Hurricane Polo, with Mexican port calls cancelled and replaced.

Carnival Panorama Cancels Ports as Hurricane Polo Threatens Mexico

Carnival Panorama will skip Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan and call at Ensenada instead as Category 5 Hurricane Polo churns in the Eastern Pacific.

Carnival Ship Docks at Private Island, Then Leaves Over Unsafe Swells

Carnival Celebration docked at RelaxAway, Half Moon Cay on September 25, but heavy swells forced the ship to leave early and spend the day at sea.

Significant Weather Disruptions Delay Norwegian Cruise Ship in Hawaii

Tropical Storm Nolo has forced Norwegian Cruise Line to delay Pride of America's Honolulu embarkation by two days, with a shorter itinerary and refunds.

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