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
478
Articles
Expertise
Cruises & Travel, Journalism, Media
100+
Cruises
34
Countries Visited
UK
Location Based

Articles By Emrys

Do Kids Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise?

We're often asked, "Do kids need a passport to go on a cruise?" To make it easy, here's our guide to child passport requirements for cruises.

Bonaire Cruise Port: What You Need to Know

Are you considering booking a cruise that stops at the Bonaire Cruise Port? Learn all about it and what it offers with our guide.

Do I Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise? Here’s What You Need to Know

Many people ask us, "Do I need a passport to go on a cruise?" If you're unsure about your own passport needs, this guide has all the answers!

Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas Voted Best Cruise Ship of 2023

Royal Caribbean International's Wonder of the Seas has been named the best overall cruise ship in the 2023 Cruise Hive Awards.

Port Canaveral Voted Best US Cruise Homeport of 2023

Florida's Port Canaveral has been named the Best US Cruise Homeport for 2023 in the annual Cruise Hive Awards, marking its fourth straight win.

Royal Caribbean’s Private Island Voted Best of 2023

Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas voted as best cruise line private island destination in the 2023 Cruise Hive Awards.

Discovering Abandoned Cruise Ships and Ocean Liners

Have you ever wondered what happens to abandoned cruise ships? Are they left in the ocean to rot? Discover where they are and why they're abandoned.

What Are the Worst Months to Cruise the Caribbean?

If you're planning a Caribbean cruise, you'll want to know the worst months to cruise the Caribbean. Find out when to avoid taking a cruise in the Caribbean.

Why Are MSC Cruises So Cheap?

If you are looking to book an affordable cruise vacation, you might be wondering why are MSC Cruises so cheap? Read on for all the answers!

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