Melissa Mayntz

Senior News Editor & Writer

Melissa has been offering her expertise on cruises since 2017 and reporting on cruise news since 2021. her work has been featured in newspapers, blogs, and websites on a wide range of subjects, but cruises remain her favorite topic to cover. She has been on more than 40 voyages to the Caribbean, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii, and more, and always has at least one more sailing booked on the horizon.

How did you get started in cruises?

My husband and I took our first cruise on Carnival Fascination in 2003 – and hated it. Our first night experience was so bad, we actually went back and forth to Guest Services considering getting off the ship!

But we ultimately decided to stay on board and really get into the fun. By the end of that 5-night trip to Key West and Cozumel, we had enjoyed it so much we booked our next sailing just one month later on the same ship so we could buy the t-shirt featuring all the ports of call and be able to say we’d visited each one of them.

What makes you a cruise expert?

Cruising is my vacation of choice and I’ve been fortunate to be able to set sail many times over the past 20 years. I’ve enjoyed voyages ranging from 2-15 nights with Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Disney Cruise Line, and each one has something amazing to offer travelers.

On more than 30 different ships, I’ve visited outstanding countries, experienced new cultures, learned new languages, developed new skills, crossed multiple time zones, spotted new wildlife, and so much more.

I’ve had so many experiences that both new and seasoned cruise travelers enjoy. I’ve been the first onboard on embarkation day, tried just about every type of stateroom, visited a working engine room, been a team leader for Royal Caribbean’s famous Crazy Quest (and yes, I did take off my… well, if you know, you know), met Disney Princesses, ridden in a lifeboat, zip lined onboard, ridden Bolt, and more. With 20+ years of writing experience, I love to share my tips with others so they can make the most of their cruise vacations.

You can check my Muck Rack profile here.

What’s your favorite cruise line?

I can’t pick! Every cruise line has something they excel at.

Carnival’s casual food (Guy’s Burger Joint) and that DELICIOUS warm chocolate melting cake can’t be beat, along with the great comedy shows and extensive trivia. On Royal Caribbean, the dynamic shows and phenomenal entertainment will keep your pulse up and your hands clapping.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s awesome freestyle dining is both elegant and flexible, while Disney Cruise Line’s magical service and total immersion – without being overwhelming – is phenomenal. Celebrity Cruises has the true celebrity glamor down to a science. My favorite cruise line depends on what experience I want for my next sailing.

What’s your top tip for new cruisers?

There are so many tips I could offer, but ultimately, just let go and have fun. Try that tempting dish on the menu, join in the activities, try your hand at onboard features, take the silly photo – you are on vacation, don’t miss out on the memories.

I spent that first night of my first cruise in my cabin plotting to leave, and that’s a night of fun I won’t ever get back – so now I keep sailing to make up for it!

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

2017
Started at Cruise Hive
2178
Articles
Expertise
Cruises, Florida Travel
40
Cruises
15
Countries Visited
Florida
Location Based

Articles By Melissa

How Not to Get Harassed in Port During a Cruise

Tips for when the cruise ship is in port with essential details on getting harassed in port. Follow this guide to stay safe.

10 Amazing Things to Do in Port Canaveral

Here are 10 things to do in Port Canaveral, Florida which can help if it is your first time taking a cruise from the popular port.

Loyalty Programs – Should You Stay Loyal to One Cruise Line?

Cruise line loyalty programs including perk program details and are they worth it? Repeat cruisers can gain different cruise vacation benefits.

10 Pictures You Have to Take on a Carnival Cruise

Cruise tips on photos you really should take during a Carnival cruise. Get that perfect shot for ever lasting memories.

How to Buy a Cruise on Carnival Cruise Line

But how do you go about booking your cruise on Carnival Cruise Line? Take a look at booking with a travel agent or directly and don't forget to do research.

What to Do on the Last Sea Day of a Carnival Cruise

Carnival cruise sea day, what should you do on the last day? Tips so you don't waste the final day of your dream cruise vacation.

8 Things You Need to Avoid in a Cruise Port

Not all cruise vacation destinations are pleasant, here are tips on what to avoid when the ship is calling at the cruise port.

Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid (Stateroom Booking Tips)

While you're planning your cruise vacation do check which cruise ship cabins you should not book. Cruise stateroom booking tips to read through no matter what cruise line.

What to Expect in a Cruise Ship Porthole Cabin

Everything you need to know about cruise ship porthole cabins. What is a porthole? The complete guide is here which can help you plan a cruise vacation.

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