Melissa Mayntz

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.