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
476
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Do Cruise Ships Still Use a Steering Wheel?

Discover how modern cruise ships are really steered, why the classic wooden wheel is long gone, and how today’s high‑tech helm systems work at sea.

Cruise News Roundup: Lawsuits, Protests, Groundings, and a Brand New Lunch Menu

Virgin Voyages swaps Bermuda for Canada, a ship runs aground near the Cast Away island, Norwegian settles a drowning lawsuit, and Carnival tests a new lunch menu.

The Titanic Stern: Why It’s More Wrecked Than the Bow

From its massive propellers and luxury lounges to the poop deck, where passengers made their last stand. Plus, what the Titanic’s stern looks like on the ocean floor today.

What Does an Upside-Down Pineapple Mean on a Cruise Ship?

Learn what an upside-down pineapple means on a cruise ship, where you might see it, and why it’s used as a secret symbol among some passengers.

Cruise News Roundup: Passenger Fall, Royal Caribbean Glitch, Cancellation, and More

A packed week in cruise news: a passenger injury lawsuit, Carnival cancellations, a Royal Caribbean email glitch, Alaska itinerary changes, and more major updates.

Complete Guide to Car Rental Near Tampa Cruise Port

Find the best car rental near Tampa Cruise Port with nearby agencies, shuttle options, airport rentals, and tips for getting the best deal before or after your cruise.

Is the Carnival Triumph Still in Service? Where the “Poop Cruise” Ship Is Now

Wondering if Carnival Triumph is still sailing? Discover what happened after the 2013 “poop cruise” and how the ship returned as Carnival Sunrise.

Carnival Cruise Ships in Alaska: Which One to Choose? 

Discover all Carnival cruise ships to Alaska, including Legend, Luminosa, Miracle, and Spirit. Compare routes, updates, and the best ship for your Alaska trip.

What is the Best Norwegian Cruise Ship for Alaska?

Find the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for Alaska with a clear breakdown of Bliss, Encore, Jade, Joy, and Spirit, from amenities to routes and crowd levels.

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