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
2180
Articles
Expertise
Cruises, Florida Travel
40
Cruises
15
Countries Visited
Florida
Location Based

Articles By Melissa

Baltimore Harbor Reopening Update – What About Cruise Ships?

Progress is being made on reopening the Port of Baltimore to marine traffic, but when might cruises resume from the homeport?

Two Cruise Passengers Reported Missing in the British Virgin Islands

Two men have been reported missing in Tortola after they failed to return to Norwegian Sky on a recent visit.

Newest Princess Cruise Ship Officially Christened in Spain

The new Sphere-class Sun Princess has been officially named in a stunning ceremony at Port of Barcelona in Spain.

How to Sleep Well During Your Cruise

There are so many things to keep you busy during the cruise but an important factor is making sure you get enough rest and sleep. Here's how you can sleep well during your cruise.

Propulsion Issue Forces Royal Caribbean Ship to Cancel Ports

Radiance of the Seas is sailing slower than expected due to a technical issue, and will not make her ports of call on her way to Vancouver.

Royal Caribbean Extends Cancellations of Private Destination

Several additional months of Royal Caribbean visits to Labadee, Haiti, are now being cancelled due to ongoing unrest.

Another Sailing for Carnival Pride Has Its Homeport Adjusted

Another sailing for Carnival Pride has its homeport adjusted to Virginia as Port of Baltimore remains closed to marine traffic.

Norwegian Cruise Ship Delayed Returning to New York

Norwegian Getaway will be delayed in returning to New York, but not for any technical difficulties. So why will the ship be late?

Carnival Cruise Line Clarifies Treatment of Those Rescued at Sea

Unexpected comments on recent refugee rescues have prompted a response from Carnival Cruise Line's brand ambassador.

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