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
475
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Jacksonville Cruise Port: Terminals, Piers, and Transportation

Have a cruise that departs from the Jacksonville Cruise Port? Read everything you need to know about parking, the terminal, and more!

Mahogany Bay Cruise Port: Piers, Getting Around, and More

Have an upcoming cruise that makes a stop at Mahogany Bay Cruise Port? Learn everything you need to know about the port and what to do in the area.

Grand Cayman Cruise Port: Terminals, Tendering and Getting Around

During your upcoming cruise, will you visit the Cayman Islands? You'll likely stop at Grand Cayman Cruise Port. Here's your guide for your visit.

10 Reasons Not to Stay on the Cruise Ship When in Port

We've come up with some reasons why you should not stay onboard the cruise ship while in port. It might not be what you expect!

Carnival Cruise Ship Hits Drifting Ice in Alaska

The Carnival Spirit cruise ship hits drifting ice while sailing the Tracy Arm Fjord in Alaska, no damage was done.

Nassau Cruise Port: Piers, Getting Around and What’s Nearby

Do you plan on visiting Nassau Cruise Port, Bahamas in the near future? We cover the piers, terminal and what's nearby.

Baltimore Cruise Port Guide: Piers, Amenities, and Location

Here's all the essential information on the Baltimore cruise port, with transportation, terminal amenities, parking, and more!

Miami Cruise Port Guide: Terminals, Transportation and More

Miami Cruise Port is the busiest cruise port in the world! If you are visiting as part of your cruise vacation, read this guide.

Carnival Asks Passengers to Return to Ship Due to Deteriorating Conditions

Carnival Cruise Line asks all passengers to return to the Carnival Magic ship earlier due to deteriorating weather conditions.

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